Rice Balls With Cheese Recipe

Rice Balls With Cheese Recipe:

History: Rice balls, also known as arancini, have a rich history in Italian cuisine. They originated in Sicily in the 10th century as a way to repurpose leftover rice from meals. Over time, arancini gained popularity and became a beloved snack or appetizer across Italy. The addition of cheese to rice balls adds a delicious gooeyness and flavor that enhances the overall dish.

Fun facts:
1. The name "arancini" means "little oranges" in Italian, referring to the size and shape of the rice balls.
2. The traditional shape of arancini is round like an orange, but they can also be made in other shapes like cones or cylinders.
3. In Sicily, arancini are often enjoyed during the festive season, especially on Christmas Eve.
4. The addition of cheese to rice balls is a modern variation that has become popular for its indulgent and creamy taste.

Ingredients:
- 2 cups of cold, boiled rice (well drained)
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (use your favorite type of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar)
- A little salt (to taste)
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 egg (separated)
- Milk (a little, for dipping)
- Fine, dried bread crumbs (for rolling)
- Deep frying oil (for frying)
- Parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the cold, boiled rice, grated cheese, salt, flour, and the stiffly-beaten egg white. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
2. Take small portions of the mixture and mold them into balls about the size of a small egg. Use a little bit of flour on your hands to prevent sticking.
3. Roll each rice ball in fine, dried bread crumbs, making sure they are coated evenly. Set the coated rice balls aside and allow them to cool completely. This step helps the balls hold their shape and prevents them from falling apart during frying.
4. When you are ready to serve the rice balls, beat the egg yolk with a little milk to create an egg wash.
5. Dip each cooled rice ball into the egg wash, coating it thoroughly.
6. Roll the dipped rice balls in the fine, dried bread crumbs once again, ensuring a complete and even coating.
7. Heat the deep frying oil in a deep pan or pot. The oil should be hot enough to fry the rice balls but not smoking.
8. Carefully place the coated rice balls into the hot oil, frying them until they turn a golden brown color. Fry them in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan and to ensure even cooking.
9. Once the rice balls are fried to perfection, remove them from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
10. Serve the rice balls with cheese hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
1. Risotto Balls: This Italian dish uses leftover risotto to create delicious and crispy balls. The risotto is combined with cheese, formed into balls, breaded, and deep-fried until golden brown.
2. Potato Croquettes: A popular appetizer, potato croquettes are made by mixing mashed potatoes with cheese, herbs, and spices. They are shaped into balls, coated in breadcrumbs, and deep-fried until crispy on the outside.
3. Spinach and Cheese Balls: These vegetarian-friendly balls are made by combining cooked spinach, cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasoning. The mixture is shaped into balls, baked or fried until golden brown, and served as a tasty snack or side dish.