Why Make This Recipe
Parmesan Rice Balls are a delightful dish that combines the creamy texture of risotto with the crunchy exterior of a baked ball. They make great appetizers for any gathering or a tasty main dish when paired with a salad or vegetables. This recipe is not only simple but also allows for creativity, making it a fantastic choice for home cooks of all skill levels.
How to Make Parmesan Rice Balls
Ingredients
- 1 batch of Basic Risotto
- 60g (2oz) Parmigiano Reggiano, grated
- 3 large eggs, whisked
- 90g (3oz) plain flour, sieved
- 150g (5oz) panko or breadcrumbs
Directions
Start by preparing the Basic Risotto. Once it’s done, stir in the grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and let the rice cool down.
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F or gas mark 4).
Line a baking tray with baking parchment to prevent sticking.
In a large bowl, whisk the eggs. Slowly add the flour while stirring vigorously to avoid lumps.
On a plate, sprinkle a thick layer of breadcrumbs.
You can now decide on the size of your rice balls. For bite-sized canapés, make small balls. If you want larger ones for a main course, consider adding a piece of fresh mozzarella cheese in the center.
Roll the cooled risotto into balls. Dip each ball into the beaten egg and then dredge in the flour mixture before rolling in the breadcrumbs.
Place the breaded balls on the baking tray and bake in the oven for about 20 minutes or until they turn crisp and golden.
Serve your Parmesan Rice Balls alongside a light salad or green vegetables.
How to Serve Parmesan Rice Balls
Parmesan Rice Balls are perfect as an appetizer or a side dish. You can serve them with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For added flavor, consider pairing them with marinara sauce or a herbed yogurt dip.
How to Store Parmesan Rice Balls
If you have leftovers, store the Parmesan Rice Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best enjoyed fresh but can last for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes until they are warm and crispy again.
Tips to Make Parmesan Rice Balls
- Ensure the risotto is cooled completely before rolling the balls. This will help them hold their shape better.
- You can add different herbs or spices to the risotto for extra flavor.
- Experiment with various cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar to change up the taste.
Variation
Feel free to customize your Parmesan Rice Balls by mixing in different ingredients. You can add cooked vegetables, herbs, or different types of cheese. For a spicy kick, a touch of chili flakes can be added to the risotto.
FAQs
Can I use leftover risotto for this recipe?
Yes! Using leftover risotto is a great way to make Parmesan Rice Balls. Just make sure it’s not too wet, or the balls may fall apart.
Can I fry the rice balls instead of baking them?
Absolutely! If you prefer a fried version, heat oil in a frying pan and gently fry the balls until they are golden and crispy.
Are these rice balls gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Parmesan Rice Balls, substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
