Mozzarella-Filled Rice (Risotto) Balls

May 11, 2023May 11, 20230 2
Mozzarella-Filled Rice (Risotto) Balls, a perfect party appetizer
in Appetizer

Prep

15min

Cook

30 min

Ready In

45 min

Level

Easy

Rating

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars
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Ingredients

1 red onion
75 g butter or 75 g olive oil
150 ml dry white wine
275 g arborio rice
1 liter vegetable stock
salt and pepper
25 g parmesan cheese , freshly grated
2 eggs , beaten
125 g mozzarella cheese , cubed
16 small basil leaves
125 g breadcrumbs
oil ( for deep frying )

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe
16
Calories
195
Sugar
1g
Fat
7g
Mozzarella-Filled Rice (Risotto) Balls are a delicious twist on arancini, a traditional Italian dish of fried rice balls. They are perfect as an appetizer or snack, especially for parties. These balls have a crispy and flavorful exterior that gives way to a creamy, cheese-filled center. The aroma of basil and earthiness of rice also add some depth of flavor. This dish is quite easy to make but does require some patience and care during the frying process. Serve them hot with your preferred dipping sauce for the perfect indulgence.

Instructions

1.In a large saucepan, add olive oil or butter and red onion. Cook over medium heat until onion is softened.
2.Add arborio rice to the saucepan, stir until the rice is coated in oil and onion. Pour in white wine and keep stirring until wine gets absorbed by the rice.
3.Add vegetable stock to the pan and simmer. Keep adding stock when needed until the rice is fully cooked. It should take around 20-25 minutes.
4.Remove from heat and stir in parmesan cheese, salt and pepper.
5.Spread the rice out onto a lined tray to cool.
6.Once cooled, mix in beaten eggs with the rice.
7.Grab small amount of the rice spoonfuls, and place a cube of mozzarella in the center and roll it into a ball. Add small basil leave inside the ball and roll it in the breadcrumb to fully coat.
8.In a frying pan, heat enough oil to deep fry the balls until evenly golden brown. Cook for about 1-2 minute.
9.Remove the rice balls onto a paper towel and let cool.
10.Serve hot, garnished with any preferred seasoning or herb.

PROS

Mozzarella-filled rice balls are a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any party or gathering.
They are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside.

They can be made ahead and frozen for later use.

CONS

The rice balls can be quite heavy and high in calories due to deep frying.
They are best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This dish contains high-quality carbohydrates from rice and healthy fats from olive oil and mozzarella cheese.
Basil has been found to have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, while onions are rich in antioxidants.
However, due to the deep-frying process, it is not considered a very healthy option.

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