Easy Homemade Rice Crackers

Craving a satisfying crunch without the guilt? Look no further than homemade rice crackers! These crispy delights are a delicious and healthy alternative to store-bought varieties, often packed with unwanted sodium and additives. Did you know that a study found the average store-bought cracker can contain up to three times the recommended daily intake of sodium? With homemade rice crackers, you control the ingredients, making them perfect for those with dietary restrictions or simply a desire for a cleaner snack.

Think beyond plain rice crackers! While classic options are fantastic, the beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Infuse them with your favorite flavors, from the fiery kick of chilli rice crackers to the savory embrace of herbs, for a personalized and exciting snacking experience.

This recipe, inspired by Kids Eat by Shanai, is incredibly simple and perfect for beginners. It utilizes leftover cooked rice, making it a fantastic way to avoid food waste and create a wholesome snack in minutes. Let’s get started on whipping up a delightful batch of homemade rice crackers!

Ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or a mix – leftover rice works perfectly!)
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted (or a neutral oil like vegetable or sunflower)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• Optional Flavourings (choose one or mix and match!):
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano)
  • 1/4 teaspoon chilli flakes (for chilli rice crackers)
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor)
  • A sprinkle of paprika

Equipment:

• Food processor (or a mortar and pestle for a more rustic touch)
• Baking tray
• Baking paper
• Rolling pin (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F). Line a baking tray with baking paper.
2. Pulse the rice in a food processor. Work in batches if necessary, aiming for a fine, flour-like consistency with a few larger pieces remaining.

Tip: Don’t over-process the rice. You want a slight texture, not a completely smooth paste.

1. Add the melted coconut oil and salt to the rice flour. Pulse again until well combined.
2. Incorporate your chosen flavorings. If using herbs or chilli flakes, mix them into the rice mixture now. For cheese or nutritional yeast, you can either fold them in at this stage or sprinkle them over the flattened crackers before baking.
3. Transfer the rice mixture to a large bowl. With damp hands (this prevents sticking), form the mixture into small balls, roughly the size of a tablespoon.
4. Flatten the rice balls into thin discs. Here, you have two options:

• Rolling Pin Method: Place a sheet of baking paper on a flat surface. Arrange the rice balls on the paper and place another sheet of baking paper on top. Use a rolling pin to gently roll out the balls into thin, even discs, aiming for a thickness of around 1-2mm.
• Spoon Method: Place a rice ball onto the baking tray lined with baking paper. Use the back of a clean spoon, dipped in water to prevent sticking, to flatten the ball into a thin disc. Repeat for all the rice balls.

1. Arrange the flattened rice crackers on the baking tray, ensuring they don’t touch.
2. Bake the rice crackers for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy around the edges. Keep an eye on them, as they can burn quickly.
3. Remove the rice crackers from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking tray. Once cool, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Tips for Success:

• Use slightly cooled rice, not piping hot. This makes it easier to handle and prevents the crackers from becoming too brittle.
• If the mixture feels too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time and pulse again until it comes together.
• Experiment with different flavors! Get creative with spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, or even a sprinkle of furikake for a Japanese twist.
• For a touch of sweetness, drizzle the flattened crackers with a little honey or maple syrup before baking. However, keep in mind that this will reduce their crispness slightly.

The Allure of Rice Crackers: A Timeless Snack

Rice crackers have become a beloved snack enjoyed across the globe. Their versatility and satisfying crunch make them perfect for any occasion. As the renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa once said, “Rice is the foundation of Japanese cuisine, and it’s also a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed in countless ways.” Homemade rice crackers capture the essence of this sentiment, offering a delicious and customizable snack that’s as satisfying as it is simple to prepare.