Grain Expectations: Making the Most of Leftover Rice

Rice is both a staple and a celebrated ingredient around the world, woven into daily life and festive traditions. From the rice cakes offered during Japan’s New Year celebrations, to the sticky rice cake eaten during Chinese New Year in late January or February, rice plays a central role in many customs. Similarly, during the Sindhi Hindu celebration of Cheti Chand, a Lunar New Year festival held in March or April, rice is a key ingredient in the festive feast, symbolizing prosperity and abundance for the year ahead.

As we enter the New Year, why not resolve to find the most delicious ways to enjoy it without wasting it? Below are a few easy recipes to help you make the most of your leftovers.

Quick Pan-Fried Rice

Ingredients:

• 2 cups leftover rice (cold works well)
• 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable, sesame, or olive oil)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 small carrot (or any leftover veggies), diced
• 1/4 cup frozen peas (optional)
• 1 egg (optional)
• Soy sauce or tamari, to taste

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Instructions:

1. Heat the oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add the diced carrot and any other leftover veggies and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Push the veggies to one side of the pan and crack the egg into the other side, scrambling until cooked through.
5. Add the leftover rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until heated through.
6. Add soy sauce or tamari to taste and mix well. Serve warm.

Rice & Veggie Fritters

Ingredients:

• 1 cup leftover rice
• 1/2 cup grated carrot or zucchini (or any other veggies you have)
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup flour (or breadcrumbs)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp oil

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix the leftover rice, grated veggies, egg, flour and a pinch of     salt and pepper.
2. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
3. Form the rice mixture into small patties and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or     until golden and crispy.
4. Serve with a side of yogurt or dipping sauce.

Savoury Rice Bowl

How to Make Sticky Rice with Leftover Rice:

While traditional sticky rice (glutinous rice) requires a specific type of rice and steaming, you can create a similar sticky texture with leftover regular rice by following these simple steps:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup leftover rice
• 1 tablespoon coconut milk (optional, for extra flavour)
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt, to taste 

Instructions:

1. If your leftover rice is very dry or clumpy, give it a quick rinse under cold water to loosen it up and remove any excess starch. Drain well.
2. In a small saucepan, add the leftover rice and a couple of tablespoons of water or coconut milk and stir.
3. Cook over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, until the rice becomes tender and sticky. Add more water or coconut milk if needed to achieve the desired sticky consistency.
4. Once the rice is heated and sticky, stir in sesame oil and a pinch of salt. This will give it a slight richness and the classic aroma of sticky rice.
5. Your sticky rice base is ready to be topped with whatever you have on hand: fresh or roasted veggies, protein, or a fried egg as desired.

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