Back to School Lunch
Back to School Lunch

Crispy Leftover Rice Cutlets (15-Minute Snack)

Crispy leftover rice cutlets are a comforting Indian-style tea time snack made by mashing leftover cooked rice with boiled potatoes, onions, green chilies, and aromatic spices. Shaped into round cutlet patties and pan-fried until golden brown, these cutlets feature a super crisp crust with a soft, flavorful interior. Perfect for serving with hot chai tea or ketchup on rainy afternoons.

Why this is a Great Meal

Why You'll Love This Recipe: Cooks in 15 minutes, economical way to use extra rice and potatoes, crispy pan-fried crust, naturally vegan and gluten-free.

Time
15 minutes
Yield
6 cutlets (2 servings)
Scale Yield
Level
Easy
Crispy Leftover Rice Cutlets (15-Minute Snack)
Pin Recipe
The Method

Instructions

  1. 01

    Mash Base: In a mixing bowl, combine leftover cooked rice and mashed boiled potato. Mash together thoroughly using a potato masher or hands until cohesive.

  2. 02

    Add Spices & Veggies: Add diced onion, green chili, chaat masala, cumin powder, red chili powder, salt, and fresh coriander. Mix well.

  3. 03

    Shape Patties: Divide mixture into 6 portions and shape into smooth 1/2-inch thick round cutlets.

  4. 04

    Pan-Fry: Heat oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Place cutlets in the pan and cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.

  5. 05

    Drain & Serve: Drain on paper towels and serve hot with mint chutney or tomato ketchup.

— Chef's Notes & Practical Tips —
  • ✦Ensure mashed potatoes are cool before mixing—warm potatoes add excess moisture that makes cutlets soft.
  • ✦Add 1 tablespoon of rice flour or cornstarch if your rice mixture feels slightly sticky.

Need Metric or Gram Weights?

Convert cup measurements to grams using ingredient-specific density factors.

Cups to Grams
Variations

Easy Variations

  • Cheese Stuffed Rice Cutlet

    Tuck a small cube of cheddar or paneer into the center of each cutlet before frying.

Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why do rice cutlets absorb too much oil?

A: Cutlets absorb oil if the pan isn't hot enough. Fry in medium-high oil so a crisp crust forms instantly.

Q: Can rice cutlets be air fried?

A: Yes! Spray cutlets with oil spray and air fry at 380°F (193°C) for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway.

Per Serving

Nutrition

Approximate values — meant as a guide, not a verdict.

180 kcal
Calories
3g
Protein
28g
Carbohydrates
6g
Fat
2g
Fiber
More like this

You may also love

High-Protein Egg Paratha Roll: A Filling and Protein-Rich Breakfast for Work (Quick & Healthy Recipe)
Breakfast• 10 mins

High-Protein Egg Paratha Roll: A Filling and Protein-Rich Breakfast for Work (Quick & Healthy Recipe)

Learn how to make an egg paratha roll, a filling, protein-rich, and easy breakfast recipe ready in just 10 minutes. Perfect for busy work mornings.

Keema Paratha Bites (Mini Spiced Mince Lunchbox Bites)
Lunch• 20 mins

Keema Paratha Bites (Mini Spiced Mince Lunchbox Bites)

Tender, mildly spiced minced chicken or beef stuffed inside crisp, golden mini paratha bites. Perfectly sized for kids' lunchboxes and snacking.

Methi Paratha with Yogurt Dip (Mild Fenugreek Flatbread)
Lunch• 25 mins

Methi Paratha with Yogurt Dip (Mild Fenugreek Flatbread)

Soft, aromatic whole wheat methi parathas kneaded with fresh fenugreek leaves and mild spices, cut into lunchbox triangles with cool yogurt dip.