Rice Bean Patties with Spiced Lentil Dip

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Crispy deep-fried patties made from rice beans and spices, served with a creamy lentil dip for dipping. This nepali-inspired asian ready in about 45 minutes blends drained cooked rice beans, rice flour, cumin powder into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 150 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 30 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Nepali cuisine 150 cal/serving
Plan a meal with the AI → Shop this recipe on Instacart → Shop equipment ↓

Ingredients

Equipment for this recipe

Top-rated tools to make this recipe successfully.

More Knives & cutting boards → Shop all kitchen tools →

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a bowl, combine 1 cup drained cooked rice beans, 1/2 cup rice flour, 1 tsp cumin powder, 1/2 tsp chili powder, and 1/4 cup chopped cilantro. Mix until a cohesive dough forms.
  2. Step 2: Divide the dough into 8 portions and shape each into a 1-inch thick patty.
  3. Step 3: Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add 4 patties and cook for 4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
  4. Step 4: For the dip, mash 1/2 cup cooked red lentils until smooth in a small bowl.
  5. Step 5: Stir in 1/4 cup plain yogurt, 1/4 tsp cumin powder, 1/4 tsp garam masala, and salt to taste until well combined.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Rice Bean Patties with Spiced Lentil Dip take to make?

Total time is about 45 minutes (30 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Rice Bean Patties with Spiced Lentil Dip?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Rice Bean Patties with Spiced Lentil Dip?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Rice Bean Patties with Spiced Lentil Dip for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Rice Bean Patties with Spiced Lentil Dip?

Nepali asian like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

What others are saying

Related recipes