Cheesy Pepperoni Rice Balls Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked Arborio rice (short-grain rice)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
- 1/2 cup diced pepperoni
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Oil for frying
- Marinara sauce for dipping
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked Arborio rice, grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Allow the rice to cool slightly.
- Take a small portion of the rice mixture in your hand, flatten it, and place a cube of mozzarella cheese and a few pieces of diced pepperoni in the center.
- Enclose the cheese and pepperoni with the rice, forming a ball. Ensure that the filling is completely covered by the rice.
- Repeat the process until all the rice mixture is used.
- In three separate shallow bowls, place the beaten eggs, breadcrumbs, and flour.
- Roll each rice ball first in the flour, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs. Ensure an even coating.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pan to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the rice balls in batches until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. This should take about 3–4 minutes per batch.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the rice balls from the oil and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
- Serve the rice balls hot with marinara sauce for dipping.
Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Pepperoni Rice Balls!
These rice balls are a delightful combination of cheesy, gooey goodness with the savory flavor of pepperoni. They make for a tasty appetizer or snack.