Description
Cheesy Rice Balls are a crispy, melty snack combining tender, sticky rice with melted cheese and a crunchy exterior. Enjoy this fusion of flavors as an appetizer or a delightful comfort food treat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked short-grain or sushi rice
- 1 to 1½ cups shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or gouda or a mix)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped herbs (optional; e.g., parsley or chives)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg (as a binding agent)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for coating)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional for extra crunch)
- Oil for deep frying or a light spray of oil for baking
Instructions
Prepare the Rice Base:
- Cook rice according to package directions until soft and sticky. Let it cool slightly.
Mix in Cheese and Seasonings:
- In a large bowl, combine the warm rice, shredded cheese, chopped herbs, salt, pepper, and the egg. Mix until evenly distributed.
Form the Rice Balls:
- With lightly oiled hands, shape the mixture into balls of uniform size. For a firmer exterior, lightly roll each ball in flour, then dip in beaten egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
Cooking Options:
- For Frying: Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the rice balls in batches until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- For Baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the rice balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray with oil and bake for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway, until the exterior is crispy.
Serving:
- Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce. Enjoy as a snack or as part of a larger meal.
Notes
Rice Temperature:Â Allow the rice to cool slightly after cooking. Using warm, but not hot, rice helps the mixture bind together properly.
Cheese Selection:Â Combining different cheeses can enhance both texture and flavor. Mozzarella offers a gooey melt, while cheddar adds a bit of sharpness.
Hand Technique:Â Lightly wet your hands when forming the balls to prevent the mixture from sticking and to help create uniform shapes.
Coating Tips: For an extra crispy exterior, consider a double coating method, first dust in flour, then dip in beaten egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
Cooking Methods:Â Maintain oil temperature when frying to ensure the rice balls cook evenly without absorbing too much oil. If baking, flip them halfway through to achieve uniform crispiness.
Storage and Reheating:Â Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in an oven or air fryer rather than a microwave to preserve the crispy texture.
Customization:Â Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients like finely chopped vegetables or a pinch of extra herbs to adjust the flavor profile to your taste.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Calories: 250