There are moments in life that weave together the simplest of ingredients into something magical. One such moment happened on a lazy Sunday afternoon when the sun poured through my kitchen window, illuminating a bowl of leftover jasmine rice. As I contemplated its fate, an idea sparked in my mind: what if I transformed this humble grain into something extraordinary? This is how my Spiced Coconut Rice Cakes came to life, accompanied by a vibrant mango salsa that dances on the palate.
Ingredients
For the Rice Cakes:
1 cup cooked jasmine rice
1/2 cup coconut milk
1/4 cup shredded coconut
1/4 cup flour (any kind, gluten-free if desired)
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon coconut oil (for frying)
For the Mango Salsa:
1 ripe mango, diced
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1 jalapeño, minced (remove seeds for less heat)
1 lime, juiced
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Salt to taste
Instructions
Begin by preparing the mango salsa, as it will benefit from a little time to meld the flavors. In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and cilantro. Season with a pinch of salt, then stir gently to combine. Set aside to allow the flavors to develop while you prepare the rice cakes.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked jasmine rice, coconut milk, shredded coconut, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Mix until everything is well incorporated and the batter is slightly sticky.
Heat coconut oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, scoop about 2 tablespoons of the rice mixture and form it into a small patty. Gently place it in the skillet. Repeat with the remaining mixture, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
Cook the rice cakes for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crisp. Once cooked, transfer the rice cakes to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
Serve the spiced coconut rice cakes warm, topped generously with the fresh mango salsa. Each bite is a delightful blend of savory and sweet, with the tropical notes of coconut and the refreshing burst of mango creating a harmonious dance on your taste buds.
These rice cakes are not just a dish; they are a celebration of simplicity and flavor. Perfect for brunch, a light lunch, or even a delightful snack, they remind us that sometimes the best things in life come from the most unexpected moments.