Pea risotto cakes

Pea risotto cakes offer a creamy and crispy twist on traditional risotto. Made with chicken gravy, fresh peas, and parsley, these cakes are perfect for an appetizer or side dish.

18 Dec 2025
Cook time 40 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

4 cups chicken gravy
1 tbsp olive oil
4 shallots
1/2 cup white rice
1 cup peas
1/2 bunch fresh parsley
salt & pepper to taste
1/3 cup bread crumbs
1 egg

Pea risotto cakes are a delicious twist on the traditional risotto, transforming it into a delightful appetizer or side dish. This recipe combines the creamy texture of risotto with the fresh flavors of peas and parsley, all formed into golden, crispy cakes. Perfect for a family gathering or a special dinner, these cakes are simple to make and full of flavor.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Risotto Base:
- In a large saucepan, bring the chicken gravy to a simmer over medium heat.
- In a separate large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped shallots and sauté until they are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the white rice and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly.

2. Cook the Risotto:
- Start adding the simmering chicken gravy to the rice mixture one ladleful at a time. Stir frequently, allowing each addition of gravy to be absorbed before adding the next.
- Continue this process until all the gravy is used up and the rice is cooked through but still has a bit of a bite to it, similar to al dente pasta. This should take about 18-20 minutes.
- Stir in the peas and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat.

3. Season and Cool the Risotto:
- Stir in the chopped fresh parsley and season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
- Spread the risotto mixture on a baking sheet to cool. Let it sit until it reaches room temperature or cools enough to handle easily. You can also refrigerate it for quicker cooling.

4. Form the Risotto Cakes:
- Once the risotto has cooled, shape it into individual cakes or patties, each about the size of a large egg.
- Dip each cake in the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Then, press each cake into the bread crumbs to coat evenly.

5. Cook the Risotto Cakes:
- In a large skillet, heat a bit more olive oil over medium heat (you can use the same skillet from earlier, adding more oil if needed).
- Fry the risotto cakes in batches, cooking each side for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Transfer the cooked cakes to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

6. Serve:
- Serve the pea risotto cakes hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired. These cakes pair well with a fresh green salad or a light sauce.

Pea risotto cakes are not only an inventive way to serve risotto, but they also offer a wonderful combination of textures and tastes. The crispy exterior encases a soft, creamy interior, making each bite a delightful experience. Serve them with a light salad or as an accompaniment to your favorite main course for a memorable meal.

Pea risotto cakes FAQ:

How long should I cook the risotto before forming the cakes?

Cook the risotto for about 18-20 minutes, stirring in the chicken gravy one ladleful at a time until the rice is cooked through but still has a slight bite to it.

What can I use as a substitute for white rice?

You can substitute white rice with arborio rice for a creamier texture, or use brown rice for a whole grain option. However, note that cooking times may vary.

How should I store leftover pea risotto cakes?

Store leftover risotto cakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pan-fry or bake until heated through.

What is the best way to tell if the risotto cakes are done frying?

The risotto cakes are done when they are golden brown and crispy on both sides, which typically takes about 3-4 minutes per side over medium heat.

Can I bake the risotto cakes instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the risotto cakes at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.

Tips:

- Keep stirring the rice regularly while cooking in the gravy to ensure a creamy and smooth risotto base.

- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor when serving the cakes.

- Cool the risotto mixture before forming the cakes to help them hold their shape better during frying.

- For a healthier option, bake the risotto cakes in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes instead of frying.

- Feel free to add other vegetables like finely chopped carrots or mushrooms to the risotto mix for added texture and flavor.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 190kcal
Protein 5g
Carbohydrates 30g
Fiber 2.26g
Sugar 3.60g
Fat 7g

Pea risotto cakes