Crispy Fried Sushi Rice Bites Recipe
This Crispy Rice recipe features perfectly cooked and seasoned short-grain rice that is chilled, cut into bite-sized squares, and pan-fried to golden, crunchy perfection. Ideal as a tasty snack or a base for toppings like spicy tuna or avocado, this recipe highlights a simple yet delicious way to enjoy rice with a satisfyingly crispy texture.
- Author: Elias
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 4 hours chilling time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Japanese
- Diet: Vegetarian
Rice and Seasoning
- 2 cups sushi rice (or any short-grain rice)
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
For Frying
- 2 tbsp neutral oil (avocado, vegetable, or sesame oil)
- Cook the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. In a pot, combine the rinsed rice with 2 1/2 cups water and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for another 10 minutes to finish steaming.
- Season the Rice: In a small bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved. Gently fold this mixture into the cooked rice to add flavor and help the rice stick together for frying.
- Chill the Rice: Transfer the seasoned rice to a shallow pan or baking dish, pressing it down firmly to create an even 1-inch thick layer. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to firm up the rice for cutting and frying.
- Cut the Rice: Remove the chilled rice from the pan and cut it into squares or rectangles. This shape allows for even frying and crispy bites.
- Pan-Fry Until Golden: Heat 2 tablespoons of neutral oil in a pan over medium heat. Place rice pieces carefully into the pan without overlapping. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until each side is golden brown and crispy. Remove fried rice pieces and drain on paper towels.
- Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy the crispy rice plain or top it with ingredients such as spicy tuna, avocado slices, or a drizzle of soy sauce for extra flavor.
Notes
- Rinsing the rice thoroughly removes surface starch and prevents overly sticky rice.
- Chilling the rice is essential for firming it up so it holds shape during frying.
- Use neutral oil with a high smoke point like avocado or vegetable oil for best frying results.
- Be sure not to overcrowd the pan when frying to maintain crispy texture.
- Leftover crispy rice can be stored refrigerated and reheated gently in a pan.
Keywords: Crispy rice, Pan-fried rice, Sushi rice recipe, Japanese snack, Rice bites, Fried rice squares