1. Prepare the Rice Mixture:
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, beaten egg, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until well combined. The mixture should be sticky enough to form into balls. If it’s too dry, you can add another beaten egg to help it bind.
2. Assemble the Rice Balls:
- Take a small amount of the rice mixture and flatten it in the palm of your hand. Place a few cubes of mozzarella cheese and a spoonful of chopped pepperoni (and basil, if using) in the center.
- Carefully wrap the rice around the filling, forming a ball. Make sure the filling is completely enclosed. Repeat with the remaining rice and filling.
3. Bread the Rice Balls:
- Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one for the flour, one for the beaten eggs, and one for the breadcrumbs.
- Roll each rice ball in flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, then roll it in breadcrumbs until well coated. Set aside on a plate and repeat with the remaining balls.
4. Fry the Rice Balls:
- Fill a deep frying pan or pot with enough vegetable oil to cover the rice balls and heat it over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of breadcrumb into the oil; if it sizzles, it’s ready.
- Fry the rice balls in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried rice balls to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
5. Serving:
Serve the rice balls hot with marinara sauce for dipping. They’re best enjoyed fresh out of the fryer when the outside is crispy, and the cheese inside is deliciously melted.
Tips:
- Rice Selection: Using short-grain or Arborio rice helps the rice balls stick together better because of the higher starch content.
- Cooling the Rice: Ensure the rice is cooled before adding the egg and cheese, as hot rice can start cooking the egg prematurely.
- Serving for a Party: If you’re preparing these for a party, you can make them ahead of time and reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until they’re heated through.
These rice balls with cheese and pepperoni are not just a treat to eat but also a fun recipe to prepare. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or indulge in a comforting snack, this recipe promises a deliciously memorable experience.