Light Herbed Rice Cake
Description
This savory rice cake is a comforting, home-style dish that transforms simple medium-grained rice into a deliciously crusty and tender treat. The combination of melted butter, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh dill creates a rich, aromatic flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the subtle heat of Tabasco sauce. While tagged as a dessert in some collections, this hearty dish is best enjoyed as a side or main course. It features a delightful texture contrast with a crispy, browned exterior and a soft, cheesy interior. Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or as a vegetarian main when served with a fresh salad. The herbs provide a fresh lift that cuts through the richness of the cheese, making every bite satisfying and flavorful.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 350&# 194;°F (175ðC).
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In a medium saucepan, combine rice, 1 teaspoon salt, and 2 cups water.
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Bring to a boil over high heat.
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Cover tightly, reduce heat to the lowest setting, and cook for 15 to 18 minutes, or until rice is tender but still lightly firm to the bite.
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Remove from heat and fluff rice with a fork.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 tablespoons melted butter, 1 cup grated medium-sharp Cheddar cheese, 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion, 2 tablespoons fresh dill (or 2 teaspoons dried dill), 1 lightly beaten egg, 1/2 cup milk, 1/4 teaspoon Tabasco sauce, and a pinch of freshly ground black pepper.
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Blend the mixture well until smooth.
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Add the cooked rice to the bowl and toss to combine evenly.
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Press the mixture evenly into a lightly buttered 8 or 9-inch square baking dish.
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Bake in the center of the oven for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the rice is beginning to brown lightly around the edges and becomes crusty.
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Remove from oven and let cool for 20 minutes before cutting.
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Run a small knife around the edges of the dish and cut the rice cake into 2-inch squares.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 78.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.2g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.1g1%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 0.6mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 16.8g6%
- Dietary Fiber 0.2g1%
- Sugars 0.0g
- Protein 1.6g4%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Serve these squares of cheese and herb-flavored rice warm or at room temperature. They are also delicious eaten hot with tomato sauce and thin slices of cold rare roast lamb or beef.
For a picnic, pack the squares in airtight containers. They hold their shape well and are easy to eat with fingers.
If using dried dill, reduce the amount to 2 teaspoons as the flavor is more concentrated.