Crispy Spinach and Tuna Rice Cakes

Crispy Spinach and Tuna Rice Cakes are a delicious and easy way to use up leftover rice. They are crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a perfect snack or meal. Packed with nutritious ingredients like tuna and fresh spinach, these rice cakes are not only tasty but also wholesome.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is a great choice for several reasons. First, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Second, it is a fantastic way to get more vegetables into your diet. Lastly, crispy rice cakes are flavorful and versatile, perfect for serving as an appetizer or a light meal.

How to Make Crispy Spinach and Tuna Rice Cakes

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice (preferably cooled)
1 can (5 oz) tuna in water or oil, drained and flaked
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 small onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 egg (optional for binding)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil for frying

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, flaked tuna, chopped spinach, onion, and minced garlic.
Add the egg (if using) and mix well to combine. Season with salt and pepper.
Shape the mixture into small patties.
Coat each patty with breadcrumbs.
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Fry the rice cakes for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
Drain on paper towels before serving.

How to Serve Crispy Spinach and Tuna Rice Cakes

Serve these crispy rice cakes hot with your favorite sauce, such as tartar sauce, yogurt dip, or a squeeze of lemon juice. They can also be enjoyed alone as a snack.

How to Store Crispy Spinach and Tuna Rice Cakes

To store leftover rice cakes, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 2-3 days. You can reheat them in a skillet on the stove or in an oven to regain their crispy texture.

Tips to Make Crispy Spinach and Tuna Rice Cakes

Make sure your rice is cooled before mixing; this helps the cakes hold their shape.
If you want them extra crispy, you can double-coat the patties with breadcrumbs.
Feel free to add other herbs or spices to enhance the flavor, like parsley or paprika.

Variation

You can easily customize this recipe by adding other ingredients. Try incorporating grated cheese, chopped bell peppers, or different types of canned fish for a unique twist.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?

Yes, you can use fresh tuna, but it will require cooking and flaking before adding it to the mixture.

Can I make these rice cakes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can mix the ingredients and shape the patties ahead of time. Just cover them and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to fry them.

What type of rice works best for this recipe?

Any cooked rice works well, but long-grain rice or jasmine rice gives a nice texture. For best results, use rice that has cooled to help the patties hold together.

Feel free to give this recipe a try! Crispy Spinach and Tuna Rice Cakes make for a delightful dish that is sure to be a hit with everyone.