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Cheesy Fried Rice Balls: Crispy & Delicious Appetizer Arancini

Close-up of golden brown, crispy rice balls stacked on a white plate, with one broken open showing melted cheese stretching out.
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Make these Cheesy Fried Rice Balls, also known as Arancini. They feature fluffy rice and melted cheese, fried until golden brown. This easy recipe is perfect for an appetizer or satisfying snack.

Ingredients

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  • 2 cups cooked Arborio rice (cooled)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup cooked diced ham (optional)
  • 1/4 cup frozen peas (thawed)
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko recommended for crispiness)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the rice mixture: In a bowl, combine the cooled cooked rice, mozzarella cheese, diced ham, and thawed peas. Season with salt and pepper. Mix gently until combined.
  2. Form the rice balls: Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the rice mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a small cube of extra cheese in the center, if desired, then carefully shape the mixture into a tight ball, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
  3. Set up the dredging station: Place the flour in one shallow dish, the beaten egg in a second dish, and the breadcrumbs in a third dish.
  4. Coat the rice balls: Roll each rice ball first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, roll it thoroughly in the breadcrumbs, pressing lightly so the coating adheres well. Place the coated rice balls on a plate.
  5. Fry the rice balls: Pour about 2 inches of vegetable oil into a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C).
  6. Carefully lower 3-4 rice balls into the hot oil, ensuring you do not overcrowd the pot. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are deep golden brown and crispy.
  7. Remove the fried rice balls with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  8. Serve the crispy rice balls immediately with your preferred dipping sauce.

Notes

  • For the best texture, use slightly sticky rice like Arborio or Japanese short-grain rice.
  • You can make these ahead; place the formed, uncooked rice balls on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.
  • Serve these savory rice balls with marinara sauce or ranch dressing.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://gourmetgaze.com/cheesy-fried-rice-balls-arancini-recipe/