Fried Stuffed Rice Balls

Crispy breaded risotto balls stuffed with melty mozzarella cheese, deep-fried to golden brown perfection. A delicious appetizer featuring mushroom risotto transformed into indulgent Italian-style arancini.

4 servings
45 min

Ingredients

  • 3 cups chilled mushroom risotto
  • 12 pieces mozzarella cubes
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup fine dry bread crumbs
  • 8 cups vegetable oil
  • 1 piece deep-fat thermometer

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Roll chilled risotto into 12 (1 1/2-inch) balls using wet hands. Poke a small hole in center of each ball and insert a cube of cheese, then re-form into a ball.

    10 min

  2. 2.

    Put flour, eggs, and bread crumbs in 3 separate bowls. Dredge 1 risotto ball in flour, shaking off excess. Dip in egg, letting excess drip off, then dredge in bread crumbs and transfer to a sheet of wax paper. Repeat with remaining balls.

    15 min

  3. 3.

    Heat 1 1/2 to 2 inches oil in a 4- to 5-quart heavy pot until thermometer registers 360°F. Working in batches of 4, lower rice balls into oil with a slotted spoon and fry, turning occasionally, until golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes per batch. Transfer with slotted spoon to paper towels to drain. Return oil to 360°F between batches. 3Let balls stand 2 minutes (for cheese to melt).

    20 min