Cheese Rice Cutlet Recipe

Cheese Rice Cutlets are crispy, cheesy, and flavorful patties made with cooked rice, vegetables, herbs, spices, and gooey cheese in the center. These cutlets are shallow-fried or pan-fried until golden brown, making them a perfect tea-time snack or party appetizer. Let’s explore the ingredients, step-by-step preparation, and useful tips to get the best results.

Ingredients

For the Cutlet Mixture:

• Cooked rice – 2 cups (preferably refrigerated or a few hours old)
• Boiled and mashed potatoes – 2 medium-sized
• Grated carrot – 1 medium
• Finely chopped capsicum – ¼ cup
• Finely chopped onions – ½ cup
• Chopped green chilies – 1-2 (adjust to taste)
• Ginger-garlic paste – 1 tsp
• Chopped coriander leaves – 2 tbsp
• Red chili powder – 1 tsp
• Garam masala – ½ tsp
• Chat masala – ½ tsp
• Salt – to taste
• Corn flour or rice flour – 2 to 3 tbsp (for binding)

For Stuffing:

• Mozzarella cheese or processed cheese – cut into small cubes

For Coating:

• Corn flour slurry – 2 tbsp corn flour mixed with 4 tbsp water
• Bread crumbs – 1 cup (or as needed)

For Frying:

• Oil – for shallow or deep frying

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Preparation Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Cutlet Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked rice. Use your hands or a potato masher to gently mash the rice. It should be slightly sticky to help bind the mixture.
2. Add boiled and mashed potatoes to the rice. These help hold the mixture together.
3. Now, add the chopped vegetables: grated carrot, chopped capsicum, and onions.
4. Add ginger-garlic paste, chopped green chilies, and coriander leaves for flavor.
5. Sprinkle in the spices – red chili powder, garam masala, chaat masala, and salt.
6. Mix everything thoroughly to form a uniform mixture. If the mixture feels too loose or sticky, add 2–3 tablespoons of cornflour or rice flour. This helps in firming up the dough and prevents the cutlets from breaking while frying.

Step 2: Shape the Cutlets

1. Divide the mixture into equal portions and roll them into balls.
2. Flatten each ball slightly using your palms.
3. Place a small cube of cheese in the center of the flattened ball, then fold the edges around the cheese and shape it into a round or oval cutlet.
4. Repeat the process for all cutlets.

Step 3: Coat the Cutlets

1. Dip each prepared cutlet into the corn flour slurry. Make sure it is evenly coated.
2. Roll the cutlet in bread crumbs until fully covered. Press gently to make the coating stick well.
3. Arrange all coated cutlets on a plate. If you have time, refrigerate them for 15–20 minutes to firm them up before frying.

Step 4: Fry the Cutlets

1. Heat oil in a pan for shallow frying. If you prefer, you can deep-fry or air-fry them as well.
2. Once the oil is medium hot, gently place the cutlets in the pan.
3. Fry on medium heat until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides. Flip carefully to avoid breaking.
4. Remove and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve these hot and crispy cheese rice cutlets with green chutney, tomato ketchup, or mayonnaise. They make a great snack with evening tea or can be served as a starter at parties. You can even use them to make a delicious cutlet sandwich or burger.

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Tips and Variations

• Rice Consistency: Use slightly dry rice (leftover rice is best). Freshly cooked rice can be sticky and soft, which might make the mixture too wet.
• Binding Agents: Adjust the quantity of corn flour or rice flour based on the moisture level of the mixture.
• Stuffing Ideas: Besides cheese, you can also add boiled corn, sautéed mushrooms, or paneer inside the cutlet for variation.
• Make It Healthier: You can bake or air-fry these cutlets instead of frying them in oil.
• Storage: You can prepare and shape the cutlets in advance and refrigerate them. Fry just before serving.

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Conclusion

Cheese Rice Cutlets are a delightful combination of crispy texture and gooey cheesy center. They are incredibly versatile, easy to prepare, and a great way to use leftover rice. Whether served as a snack, in a lunchbox, or as a party appetizer, these cutlets are sure to impress. With a little prep and a few pantry staples, you can make this delicious snack any time. Try them today and enjoy the crunch with every cheesy bite!

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