Cheesy Rice Balls
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: Allow the rice to cool slightly after cooking. Using warm, but not hot, rice helps the mixture bind together properly.
- Cheese Selection: Combining different cheeses can enhance both texture and flavor. Mozzarella offers a gooey melt, while cheddar adds a bit of sharpness.
- Hand Technique: 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: 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: 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: 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.