Elevate Your Appetizer Game with Rice Balls Stuffed with Cheese & Pepperoni

Looking for a tasty and satisfying appetizer or snack that’s sure to impress? These Rice Balls Stuffed with Cheese & Pepperoni are the perfect solution! Crunchy on the outside, creamy and cheesy on the inside, and bursting with the flavors of mozzarella and pepperoni, these rice balls are an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or simply craving a delicious snack, these rice balls are sure to hit the spot. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you how to make these mouthwatering rice balls from scratch, along with variations, keto-friendly options, and answers to frequently asked questions. Let’s dive in and discover the ultimate comfort food appetizer!

Introduction

Rice balls, also known as arancini in Italian cuisine, are a popular snack or appetizer made from cooked rice that’s shaped into balls, stuffed with various fillings, breaded, and fried until golden brown and crispy. While traditional arancini typically feature a filling of meat sauce or cheese, we’re putting a delicious twist on the classic recipe by stuffing our rice balls with gooey mozzarella cheese and savory pepperoni. The result? A mouthwatering combination of flavors and textures that’s sure to delight your taste buds. Whether you enjoy them as a party snack, game day treat, or quick and easy dinner option, these rice balls are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

Ingredients

• 2 cups of rice (cooked)
• 4 eggs
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Parsley to taste
• 150 grams of grated mozzarella
• 1 slice of grated calabrese
• 3 heaping tablespoons whole wheat flour
• 1/2 tablespoon baking powder
• Breadcrumbs for breading

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Rice Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, eggs, salt, black pepper, and parsley. Mix until well combined.
2. Add the grated mozzarella and grated calabrese to the rice mixture. Stir until the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 2: Form the Rice Balls

1. Take a small handful of the rice mixture and flatten it in the palm of your hand.
2. Place a small piece of pepperoni in the center of the flattened rice mixture.
3. Carefully shape the rice mixture into a ball, making sure the pepperoni is fully enclosed within the rice.

Step 3: Bread the Rice Balls

1. In a shallow dish, combine the whole wheat flour and baking powder.
2. Roll each rice ball in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
3. Dip the floured rice ball into beaten eggs, then coat it evenly with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 4: Fry the Rice Balls

1. In a deep fryer or large skillet, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
2. Carefully add the breaded rice balls to the hot oil, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan.
3. Fry the rice balls for 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
4. Remove the fried rice balls from the oil and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Serve the rice balls hot, garnished with fresh parsley and your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara or ranch.
2. Enjoy the crispy exterior, gooey cheese filling, and flavorful pepperoni in every bite!

Cook Notes and Variations

• Make Them Vegetarian: If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the pepperoni and add your favorite veggies or meat alternatives to the rice mixture.
• Try Different Fillings: Get creative with your fillings! Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, gouda, or provolone, and add-ins like cooked bacon, diced ham, or chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
• Bake Instead of Fry: For a lighter alternative, you can bake the rice balls in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use leftover rice to make these rice balls? A: Yes, leftover cooked rice works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure it’s cooled before mixing it with the other ingredients.

Q: Can I freeze the rice balls before frying them? A: Yes, you can freeze the assembled rice balls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container for long-term storage. When ready to fry, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before frying as directed.

Q: Can I use different types of cheese in the filling? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of cheese you like or have on hand. Experiment with different flavors and textures to find your favorite combination.

Keto Version

For a keto-friendly version of these rice balls, you can substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour. You can also use cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice to reduce the carb content.

With their crispy exterior, cheesy filling, and savory pepperoni, these Rice Balls Stuffed with Cheese & Pepperoni are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, snack, or main course, they’re guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for comfort food. Get creative with the fillings and toppings, and make this recipe your own!