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Easy Cheesy Arancini (Italian Fried Rice Balls)

Three golden-brown, deep-fried rice balls, one broken open revealing melted cheese inside. Perfect cheesy rice balls.
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Make crispy, cheesy Italian rice balls using leftover rice. These fried rice balls make a simple appetizer or savory snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cooked, cold short-grain rice (leftover rice works well)
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten (for dredging)
  • 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (Panko recommended for crispiness)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine the cold cooked rice, 1 beaten egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly combined.
  2. Take about 2 tablespoons of the rice mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place one cube of mozzarella cheese in the center. Gently form the rice around the cheese to create a tight, uniform ball shape. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
  3. Set up a standard breading station: place flour in one shallow dish, the 2 beaten eggs in a second dish, and breadcrumbs in a third dish.
  4. Dredge each rice ball first in the flour, shaking off excess. Then dip it completely in the beaten egg mixture. Finally, roll it thoroughly in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the crumbs adhere well.
  5. Pour vegetable oil into a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature.
  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 golden brown and crispy on all sides.
  7. Remove the fried rice balls with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  8. Serve the crispy rice balls immediately while the cheese inside is melted.

Notes

  • Using cold, day-old rice helps the balls hold their shape better during frying.
  • If you prefer a baked arancini alternative, spray the breaded balls lightly with cooking spray and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden.
  • For extra flavor, add 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley to the initial rice mixture.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://delishcraze.com/easy-cheesy-rice-balls-arancini-recipe/