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The Ultimate Crispy Rice Squares

A stack of four golden, gooey crispy rice treats on a white plate, catching sunlight near a window.
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Make perfectly crunchy rice squares that you can use as an appetizer base or add to salads. This recipe focuses on achieving a golden, crisp exterior.

Ingredients

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  • 3 cups cooked short-grain sushi rice, cooled
  • 1/4 cup rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons neutral oil, plus more for frying

Instructions

  1. Combine the cooled rice, rice vinegar, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Mix gently until the seasoning is evenly distributed.
  2. Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with plastic wrap, leaving an overhang on the sides. Press the seasoned rice firmly and evenly into the prepared dish, aiming for a thickness of about 1 inch.
  3. Cover the rice with the plastic overhang and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until the rice is very firm.
  4. Remove the chilled rice block from the dish using the plastic wrap overhang. Place it on a cutting board and remove the wrap.
  5. Cut the rice block into 12 uniform squares.
  6. Heat 2 tablespoons of neutral oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
  7. Carefully place the rice squares in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Work in batches if necessary.
  8. Fry for 4 to 6 minutes per side, pressing down lightly with a spatula to encourage even browning, until the rice is deep golden brown and very crisp.
  9. Remove the crispy rice squares and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  10. Serve immediately with your preferred topping or use in a salad.

Notes

  • For an oven-baked version, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the squares lightly with oil and bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden.
  • For an air fryer, lightly spray the squares with oil and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Short-grain sushi rice works best because its high starch content helps the squares hold their shape.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorsensations.com/crispy-rice-recipe-how-to-make-crispy-rice/