Rice balls are a fantastic way to repurpose leftover rice into a flavorful dish. These Rice Balls with Cheese & Pepperoni take things to the next level, combining the creaminess of mozzarella with the zesty kick of pepperoni. The blend of spices and the crispy breadcrumb coating creates the perfect balance of texture and flavor. Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or main course, these bite-sized delights are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Plus, they are surprisingly easy to make, so you can enjoy a delicious homemade dish with minimal effort. The rich mozzarella cheese and savory pepperoni are complemented by fresh parsley and a slight crunch from the breadcrumbs, making each bite irresistible. These rice balls are also versatile, allowing you to customize them by adding different fillings or seasonings according to your taste.
Ingredients (Serves 4-6):
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 4 eggs
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Parsley to taste
- 150 grams grated mozzarella
- 1 slice grated calabrese pepperoni
- 3 heaping tablespoons whole wheat flour
- 1/2 tablespoon baking powder
- Breadcrumbs for breading
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine the cooked rice, salt, black pepper, 2 eggs, and chopped parsley. Stir for one minute.
- Add the grated mozzarella, grated pepperoni, whole wheat flour, and baking powder. Mix everything together until you form a firmer dough.
- Take a tablespoon of the dough and shape it into small balls.
- If you want, you can open the dough in your hands and place mozzarella cubes inside as a stuffing.
- Roll the rice balls in flour, then dip them in the beaten eggs, and finally coat them in breadcrumbs.
- Fry the rice balls in hot oil until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Nutritional Insights & Dietary Considerations:
These rice balls are a great source of carbohydrates from the rice, protein from the eggs and cheese, and healthy fats from the pepperoni. The addition of whole wheat flour and parsley provides some fiber and vitamins. While this dish is flavorful and filling, it’s also fried, which makes it higher in calories and fat. For a lighter version, consider baking the rice balls instead of frying them, or swapping the pepperoni for a leaner protein like turkey or chicken. These rice balls contain dairy, so they are not suitable for those with lactose intolerance or those following a dairy-free diet.
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If you try making these Rice Balls with Cheese & Pepperoni, we’d love to hear how they turned out! Leave a comment below to share your experience, variations, or any tips you have. Your feedback is helpful to others and helps keep the recipe community growing!