How to Make Parboiled Rice Cakes: A Step-by-Step Guide

Rice cakes are a delicious and healthy snack that you can enjoy at any time of the day. They are easy to make, low in calories, and gluten-free, making them an excellent option for those looking for a guilt-free snack.

If you are wondering how to make parboiled rice cakes, we’ve got you covered. In this section, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on making delectable rice cakes using parboiled rice. We will also explore different rice cakes recipes and popular brands that you can find in the market. So, let’s get started and learn how to make crispy and flavorful rice cakes that you can enjoy with your favorite toppings.

Key Takeaways

• Parboiled rice cakes are a delicious and healthy snack that you can enjoy anytime.
• With our step-by-step guide, you can make crispy and flavorful rice cakes using parboiled rice.
• There are many different rice cakes recipes that you can try for a unique flavor experience.
• There are many different rice cake brands available in the market.
• Parboiled rice cakes are low in calories and gluten-free, making them a healthy snack option.

The Art of Parboiling Rice

If you want to make the perfect parboiled rice cakes, it all starts with the right rice. But before we explore different rice varieties, let’s dive into the art of parboiling rice and the benefits it provides.

What is Parboiled Rice?

Parboiled rice is made by partially boiling rice in its husk, which allows the rice to absorb more nutrients and retain its natural vitamins and minerals. This process also makes the rice more resilient and less likely to break or become mushy when cooked, resulting in firmer and fluffier grains.

The Benefits of Parboiled Rice

There are several benefits to parboiling rice:

• Retains more nutrients compared to regular white rice, making it a healthier option for you
• Provides a firmer texture and gives your rice cakes a better consistency
• Requires less cooking time than unprocessed rice
• Less likely to stick or clump together when cooked

Parboiled rice may be slightly more expensive than other types of rice, but the benefits are worth the extra penny.

Types of Parboiled Rice

There are different types of parboiled rice available in the market, including:

Rice Variety	Description
Long Grain Parboiled Rice	Long and slender grains with a nutty flavor and firm texture. Ideal for making rice cakes that are crispy and fluffy.
Medium Grain Parboiled Rice	Shorter and plumper grains that absorb flavors well. Ideal for making rice cakes that are softer and stickier.
Short Grain Parboiled Rice	The shortest and thickest grain type, with a chewy texture and sweet flavor. Ideal for making rice cakes that are extra sticky and perfect for sushi.

Choosing the right type of parboiled rice is essential for achieving the desired texture and flavor in your rice cakes. It’s a matter of personal preference and the type of rice cake recipe you plan to make.

Choosing the Right Rice

When it comes to making parboiled rice cakes, the type of rice you choose will impact their flavor and texture. While parboiled rice is the preferred variety due to its enhanced nutritional value, there are several other options available in the market.

Let’s take a look at some popular rice varieties and their characteristics:

Rice Variety	Texture	Flavor
Basmati Rice	Fluffy and light	Aromatic and nutty
Jasmine Rice	Soft and moist	Slightly sweet
Black Rice	Chewy and sticky	Nutty and earthy
Brown Rice	Firm and chewy	Nutty and rich
Wild Rice	Crisp and chewy	Nutty and smoky

When choosing the right rice for your parboiled rice cakes, it’s essential to consider its texture and flavor. For crispy and crunchy rice cakes, you may opt for jasmine or basmati rice. However, if you prefer chewy and sticky rice cakes, black or wild rice may be a better fit.

Pro-tip: Mix and match different rice varieties to create unique and flavorful rice cakes.

Preparing the Rice

You’ve chosen the perfect type of rice for your parboiled rice cakes, and now it’s time to prepare it for molding. Follow these steps to ensure your rice is cooked to perfection:

1. Rinse the rice: Rinse your rice thoroughly in cold running water to remove any excess starch and impurities.
2. Soak the rice: Soak your rice in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This will help the rice absorb water evenly during cooking and prevent it from clumping.
3. Cook the rice: Drain the rice and transfer it to a pot. Add enough water to cover the rice by an inch, and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer the rice for 16-18 minutes. Turn off the heat and let the rice rest for 10 minutes.

Once your rice is properly cooked, it’s time to add toppings and flavors to your parboiled rice cakes. Keep reading to learn more!

Shaping the Rice Cakes

Now that you have properly prepared the parboiled rice, it’s time to shape it into cakes. There are various methods to shape rice cakes such as using molds, forming them by hand, or using a rice cooker. Let’s explore each method:

Using Molds:

You can use molds to shape your rice cakes for a more uniform size and shape. Silicone molds are a popular choice since they are flexible, making it easy to remove the rice cakes without sticking. Here’s how:

1. Prepare the rice by adding your desired seasonings or fillings.
2. Pack the rice into the molds and press down firmly to ensure they hold their shape.
3. Carefully remove the rice cakes from the molds onto a plate or tray lined with parchment paper.

Forming by Hand:

If you don’t have molds, you can shape the rice cakes by hand. This method allows you to customize the size and shape of the rice cakes to your liking. Here’s how:

1. Prepare the rice by adding your desired seasonings or fillings.
2. Scoop the rice mixture into your hands and form it into a ball.
3. Flatten the ball into a disc shape, about 1/2 inch thick.

Using a Rice Cooker:

If you have a rice cooker, you can use it to shape the rice cakes. This method is convenient since you can cook and shape the rice cakes at the same time. Here’s how:

1. Prepare the rice by adding your desired seasonings or fillings.
2. Scoop the rice mixture into the rice cooker’s measuring cup.
3. Place the cup into the rice cooker and press down to flatten the ricecake.
4. Cook the ricecake according to the rice cooker’s instructions.

Regardless of the shaping method you choose, it’s important to ensure that the rice cakes are evenly shaped to ensure even cooking.

Cooking the Rice Cakes

Now that your parboiled rice cakes are shaped, it’s time to cook them to achieve their signature crispy texture. There are several cooking methods you can use, depending on your preference and the tools available in your kitchen.

Grilling

Grilling rice cakes over an open flame is a popular cooking method that gives them a smoky flavor and charred exterior. To grill your rice cakes, heat a grill pan or outdoor barbecue grill to medium-high heat. Brush the rice cakes with a light layer of oil on both sides before placing them on the hot grates. Grill for 2-3 minutes on each side until the cakes are crispy and heated through.

Baking

Baking rice cakes in the oven is a healthier and easier alternative to pan-frying. Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly oil a baking sheet. Place the rice cakes on the sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Pan-frying

Pan-frying is a traditional cooking method that gives rice cakes a crunchy exterior while keeping the inside soft and chewy. Heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Place the rice cakes in the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are crispy and heated through. For extra flavor, you can add toppings such as cheese, avocado, or smoked salmon while the rice cakes are cooking.

No matter which cooking method you choose, make sure not to overcrowd the pan or grill, as this can make the rice cakes soggy instead of crispy. Once cooked, serve your rice cakes hot and enjoy their delicious crunchiness!

Adding Flavor and Toppings

Take your parboiled rice cakes to the next level by adding delicious flavors and creative toppings! Here are some mouthwatering ideas to help you elevate your rice cakes into a flavorful snack or even a meal.

Flavor Ideas

• Garlic and Herb: Mix garlic powder and dried herbs (such as parsley, basil, and thyme) with a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Rub onto the rice cakes before cooking.
• Cinnamon Sugar: Combine cinnamon and sugar in a bowl. Sprinkle over rice cakes and serve with a side of honey or maple syrup.
• Spicy: Mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Rub onto the rice cakes before cooking for a spicy kick.
• Chocolate and Peanut Butter: Spread peanut butter on top of the rice cakes and drizzle with chocolate sauce.

Topping Ideas

Top your rice cakes with any of the following options:

Toppings	Description
Avocado and Egg	Top your rice cake with mashed avocado, sliced hard-boiled egg, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese	Spread cream cheese on top of your rice cake and top with smoked salmon, capers, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Berry and Yogurt	Top your rice cake with Greek yogurt, fresh berries, and a drizzle of honey.
Tomato and Basil	Top your rice cake with sliced tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.

Get creative with your flavor and topping combinations, and enjoy the endless possibilities of parboiled rice cakes!

Nutritional Benefits of Rice Cakes

Parboiled rice cakes are an excellent choice for those seeking low calorie and gluten-free snacks. Here are some rice cakes benefits that make them a healthy addition to your diet:

• Low Calorie Snack: Rice cakes are a great alternative to calorie-laden snacks, weighing in at only around 35 calories per cake.
• Gluten-Free Snack: Made from rice grains and without wheat or other grains, rice cakes are a gluten-free option for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
• Low in Fat: Rice cakes contain minimal fat, making them a healthy snack for those watching their fat intake.
• No Cholesterol: Rice cakes contain no cholesterol, which is good news for heart health.
• Rich in Fiber: Rice cakes made from brown rice are a good source of fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes feelings of fullness.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Parboiled rice is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including thiamin, niacin, and phosphorus.

Incorporating rice cakes into your diet can be a convenient and healthy choice. However, keep in mind that some commercially available rice cake brands may include added sugars or artificial ingredients, which can negate some of the benefits. When selecting rice cakes, read the labels carefully and choose brands with minimal additives and preservatives.

Low Calorie Snacks Comparison Table

Food	Calories per serving
Apple	95
Rice cakes	35
Plain popcorn	31
Carrots	25

Exploring Rice Cake Brands

With the popularity of parboiled rice cakes increasing, a variety of brands have entered the market. While some brands may offer similar flavors and textures, there are differences worth exploring before making a purchase decision. We have shortlisted some notable rice cake brands for you to consider:

Brand	Details
Lundberg	Lundberg Family Farms offers organic rice cakes made with whole grains. Their flavors include Salt-Free, Brown Rice Lightly Salted, and Tamari with Seaweed.
Quaker	Quaker Oats company offers a wide variety of rice cake flavors such as Caramel, Chocolate Crunch, and Apple Cinnamon. These are widely available across grocery stores in the United States.
Snack-A-Jack	Snack-A-Jack is known for its low-calorie rice cakes with flavors such as Caramel, Chocolate, and Salt and Vinegar.
Trader Joe’s	Trader Joe’s offers rice cakes in flavors such as White Cheddar, Everything but the Bagel, and Dark Chocolate. These are relatively affordable and can be found in Trader Joe’s stores across the country.

When choosing a brand, it is essential to consider factors such as the ingredients used, nutritional values, and taste preference. Conducting thorough research can help you make an informed decision. Additionally, making your own rice cakes from scratch can provide you with more control over the ingredients used and customize the flavor to your liking.

Rice Cake Recipe Ideas

Parboiled rice cakes are a versatile and healthy snack that can be enjoyed on their own or with various toppings and spreads. If you’re looking for creative ways to add some flavors to your rice cakes, here are some easy and delicious recipe ideas:

Sweet Rice Cake Toppings

• Almond Butter and Sliced Strawberries: spread almond butter on a rice cake and top with fresh sliced strawberries for a nutritious and satisfying snack.
• Chocolate and Banana: spread chocolate hazelnut spread on a rice cake and top with banana slices for a sweet and decadent treat.
• Apple Cinnamon: sprinkle cinnamon on a rice cake and top with apple slices for a tasty and healthy snack.

Savory Rice Cake Toppings

• Avocado and Tomato: mash avocado on a rice cake and top with diced tomatoes for a delicious and filling snack.
• Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese: spread cream cheese on a rice cake and top with smoked salmon slices for a protein-packed snack.
• Thai Peanut Sauce: spread Thai peanut sauce on a rice cake and top with chopped peanuts and cilantro for a flavorful and exotic snack.

Rice Cake Roll-Ups

For a more substantial snack or light meal, try making rice cake roll-ups:

Ingredients:	Instructions:
Parboiled rice cakes	Lay a rice cake flat on a plate.
Sliced Turkey or Ham	Add sliced turkey or ham on top of the rice cake.
Avocado	Add avocado slices on top of the turkey or ham.
Lettuce	Add a lettuce leaf on top of the avocado.
Tomato	Add diced tomatoes on top of the lettuce.
Roll Up	Roll up the rice cake and ingredients, securing with a toothpick if needed. Slice in half and enjoy!

With these recipe ideas, you can easily switch up your rice cake snacking routine and enjoy a variety of delicious and healthy options.

Storing and Serving Rice Cakes

Congratulations! You have successfully made your parboiled rice cakes, but what’s next? Properly storing and serving them is crucial to maintain their freshness and texture.

First, let your rice cakes cool to room temperature before storing them. Once cooled, wrap them in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days or in the freezer for up to three months.

Now, onto serving. Rice cakes are a versatile snack that you can enjoy in many ways. Here are some serving ideas:

• Serve them plain with a cup of tea or your favorite beverage.
• Add toppings such as peanut butter, jam, or honey for a sweet snack.
• Top them with avocado, sliced tomato, or feta cheese for a savory treat.

You can also use your rice cakes as a base for healthy and flavorful snacks. Here are some rice cake recipes to try:

1. Avocado and Egg Rice Cakes: Top a rice cake with mashed avocado, a poached egg, and a sprinkle of chili flakes.
2. Apple and Peanut Butter Rice Cakes: Spread peanut butter over a rice cake and top it with thinly sliced apples.
3. Cucumber and Cream Cheese Rice Cakes: Spread cream cheese over a rice cake and top it with thinly sliced cucumbers.

Get creative and experiment with different toppings and flavors. Rice cakes are a healthy and delicious snack that you can enjoy throughout the day.

Conclusion

Congratulations, you have now gained a solid understanding of how to make delicious parboiled rice cakes. By following the step-by-step guide we provided, you can create your own crispy and flavorful rice cakes that are sure to impress your friends and family.

Remember to choose the right rice variety and properly prepare it for molding into cakes. Experiment with different cooking methods to achieve the perfect crisp texture, and explore the wide range of flavors and toppings available for adding variety to your rice cakes.

Healthy and Nutritious Snack Option

Not only are parboiled rice cakes delicious, but they are also a healthy and nutritious snack option. With their low calorie count and gluten-free nature, rice cakes can be a guilt-free indulgence for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Plus, with our recipe ideas, you can enjoy rice cakes for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!

Don’t forget to properly store your rice cakes to ensure they stay fresh and crispy. Whether you’re packing them for a picnic or serving them as an appetizer, rice cakes are a versatile and delightful snack that are sure to please.

Exploring Rice Cake Brands and Recipes

If you’re looking to try different rice cake brands, we’ve shared some popular and high-quality options for you to consider. And with our creative recipe ideas, you can take your rice cakes to the next level.

Thank you for joining us on this culinary journey of making parboiled rice cakes. We hope our guide has been informative and helpful, and that you enjoy your homemade rice cakes!