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Italian Rice Balls

Italian Rice Balls Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups (480ml) chicken or vegetable stock
  • 1 cup (200g) arborio rice
  • 1/2 cup (50g) finely grated Parmesan
  • 1/3 cup (30g) finely chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 4 oz (115g) low-moisture mozzarella, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 1 cup (60g) plain breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup (60g) panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
  • Neutral oil for frying
  • Salt and black pepper
  • Warm marinara sauce for serving

Method
 

  1. Bring stock to a simmer. Toast arborio rice in olive oil for 2 minutes, then add stock a ladle at a time, stirring often, for 18 minutes until thick and creamy. Stir in Parmesan, parsley, salt, and pepper. Cool 10 minutes, beat in egg yolks, then chill the rice mixture until cold and firm, at least 1 hour.
  2. Shape 2-tablespoon portions of cold rice around a mozzarella cube, rolling tightly to seal. Wet hands to prevent sticking. Chill the shaped balls on a tray.
  3. Set up flour, beaten egg, and a mix of plain and panko breadcrumbs. Coat each ball in flour, egg, then breadcrumbs, pressing gently. Rest for 10 minutes.
  4. Heat 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry in batches for 4 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until deep golden brown.
  5. Drain on a rack and serve immediately with warm marinara sauce.

Notes

The chilling step is not optional. Give the rice at least 1 hour in the fridge, or make the risotto the day before. The balls can be shaped and breaded a few hours ahead and kept in the fridge, then fried just before serving.