Crispy Mozzarella Fried Rice Balls
Golden fried rice balls bursting with melted mozzarella—crispy outside, creamy inside. Ready in 20 minutes with leftover rice and a handful of pantry staples.
- Total time
- 20 min
- Servings
- 2
- Calories
- 520
- Protein
- 12g
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice, chilled
- 4 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into 6 small cubes
- 1 whole large egg
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 cups neutral cooking oil, for frying
Instructions
- 1
Mix cold rice with 2 tbsp grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- 2
Wet your hands and pack about 3 tbsp rice around each mozzarella cube, forming a smooth ball.
- 3
Set up three bowls: flour in the first, beaten egg in the second, panko in the third.
- 4
Coat each ball in flour, dip in egg, then roll in panko until fully covered.
- 5
Heat oil in a heavy skillet to 350°F (or until a panko piece sizzles immediately when dropped in).
- 6
Fry balls 2–3 minutes per side until deep golden brown; drain on paper towels.
Tools you’ll need
- 12-inch heavy skillet or deep saucepan
- deep-fry thermometer
- three shallow bowls
- slotted spoon or spider strainer
- paper towels
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