On a sun-soaked afternoon, I found myself rummaging through my pantry, searching for a snack that would be both satisfying and light. The vibrant colors of quinoa caught my eye, and it sparked a wave of inspiration. Combining the nutty goodness of quinoa with the crispy texture of rice cakes felt like the perfect fusion. To elevate this dish, I decided to create a creamy avocado topping that would add a delightful contrast. This recipe embodies the spirit of creativity and simplicity, perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
1 cup cooked quinoa
1 cup brown rice flour
1/2 cup grated carrots
1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup water (more if needed)
1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
For the Avocado Cream
2 ripe avocados
1 tbsp lime juice
1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or a dairy-free alternative)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
Begin by preparing the avocado cream. Slice the avocados in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a bowl. Add lime juice and Greek yogurt to the avocados, then mash everything together until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside as you prepare the rice cakes.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, brown rice flour, grated carrots, and chopped green onions. Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the mixture, stirring until well combined.
Gradually add water to the quinoa mixture, stirring until you achieve a thick batter that holds together. If it’s too dry, add a bit more water until the desired consistency is reached.
Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, scoop a spoonful of the quinoa mixture into the skillet, flattening it gently with the back of the spoon to form a cake. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Repeat this process until all the batter is used.
Once the rice cakes are ready, plate them up and generously spoon the avocado cream on top. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.
These Spiced Quinoa Rice Cakes with Avocado Cream are not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients. They make for a perfect snack, appetizer, or even a light lunch. Enjoy the delightful crunch and the creamy, zesty topping that complements every bite!