(pictured with Golden Hummus)
These are worth the investment of time, and the effort is minimal. Keep it interesting and switch up the type of rice (go brown, mixed grain, black, or even purple). Once you’ve nailed the technique, alter the flavour by adding in spices such as curry powder, fennel seeds, or chili flakes.
Make ahead
Prepare dough and refrigerate for up to 3 days before using. Bring to room temperature before using.
*sweet rice flour
is made from short-grain rice, most commonly known as “sticky rice.” It has higher starch content than regular white rice flour and is often used as a thickening agent. It is naturally gluten free and, despite its name, is not sweet at all. Find it at most Asian stores.
Sesame-Thyme Rice Crackers
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup (80 mL) cooked brown or white rice
- 1 Tbsp (15 mL) chopped fresh thyme
- 1 cup (250 mL) sweet rice flour*
- 2 Tbsp (30 mL) coconut oil
- 2 tsp (10 mL) sodium-reduced soy sauce or gluten-free tamari sauce
- 1/4 cup (60 mL) water
- 1 1/2 Tbsp (22 mL) chia seeds
- 1 1/2 Tbsp (22 mL) toasted sesame seeds
Nutrition
Per serving:
- calories40
- protein1g
- fat1g
- saturated fat1g
- trans fat0g
- carbohydrates6g
- sugars0g
- fibre5g
- sodium13mg
Directions
01
In food processor, whirl rice with thyme until finely chopped. Add flour, oil, and soy sauce or tamari, then whirl until mixed.
02
Continue to whirl and slowly add water until mixture starts to form a dough. Add up to 1 Tbsp (15 mL) more water, if needed. Dough should be a moist, glossy ballu2014not sticky. Add more flour if too sticky.
03
Turn into bowl and knead in chia and sesame seeds. Cover with towel to let rest for 10 minutes.
04
Meanwhile, place baking sheet inside oven while preheating to 375 F (190 C). Cut at least 24 - 5 in (12.5 cm) squares of parchment. Using 1 tsp (5 mL) measure, divide and roll dough into small balls. Working with one ball at a time, place between two squares of parchment. Press down to flatten, then using a rolling pin, roll as thin as possible. Peel off top piece of parchment only. Continue rolling remaining balls.
05
Working in batches, place parchment squares on baking sheet. Donu2019t overcrowd. Bake until crackers turn golden and crispy, 3 to 6 minutes. Remove squares to a counter to cool slightly, then peel off parchment. Store in airtight container, at room temperature, for up to 1 week.
06
To serve, spread with Lemon Poppy Seed Labneh or Golden Hummus.
READ THIS NEXT
SEE MORE »
Roasted Cauliflower with Vinaigrette and Crispy Prosciutto
Enjoy the zippy tang of sherry vinegar, popular in Spanish cooking, and the briny taste of capers in this zesty take on roasted cauliflower. Serve as a tapas side or on a charcuterie board accompanied by a selection of Spanish meats, cheeses, and olives. The smaller, the better The smaller you cut garlic, the more oils you’ll release, providing additional flavour. Looking to achieve more subtle flavour? Slice your garlic rather than crushing it.
Broth and Wine-Braised Cannellini Beans
Braising these hearty beans not only changes their texture but leaves them creamy and satisfying. Using a savoury broth with saffron for braising provides the traditional Spanish flavour, similar to a paella. This dish is served as a shared side, but it could also be served with rice and vegetables as a delicious stand-alone dinner or as a satisfying nourish bowl. Swap your spirits Try substituting vermouth for white wine in this recipe, if you have some on hand. It’s a great alternative to wine and will last much longer in your cupboard. An added perk? You can save that nice wine for sipping.
Baked Prawns
With Spain’s expansive coastlines and multiple islands, seafood is a staple of the cuisine. This quick and easy prawn dish will add a pop of protein and a wonderful smokiness to your tapas-style lineup. Sustainable seafood When choosing prawns (or any seafood), opt for sustainable varieties that recognize and even reward sustainable fishing practices. As an important protein in many cultures, seafood, caught sustainably, helps contribute to healthy oceans < and > healthy communities.
Lentil Shepherd’s Pie
This vegan take on classic shepherd’s pie is jam-packed with bold and rich flavours that will ensure no one will miss the meat. While a great source of fibre, lentils also contain the highest amount of folate out of all plant-based foods. Oven ready If you don’t have an ovenproof skillet, you’ll need to transfer cooked lentil filling to a baking dish before topping with mashed sweet potatoes and baking.