Crispy Mozzarella Rice Balls with Side Salad
Golden-fried arancini-style rice balls with a molten mozzarella center—ready in 25 minutes. Serve alongside a fresh salad for a complete, satisfying dinner.
- Total time
- 25 min
- Servings
- 2
- Calories
- 480
- Protein
- 12g
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked risotto or white rice, cooled
- 4 oz fresh mozzarella, cut into 0.5-inch cubes
- 1 whole egg
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 3 cups neutral oil for frying
- 3 cups mixed salad greens
Instructions
- 1
Place flour in one shallow bowl, beaten egg in a second, and panko in a third.
- 2
Scoop 2-tbsp portions of cold rice into your palm. Press a mozzarella cube into the center, then seal with rice around it.
- 3
Coat each ball in flour, then egg, then panko. Press gently so breadcrumbs stick.
- 4
Heat oil in a deep skillet or small pot to 350°F. Working in batches, fry balls 2–3 minutes until golden brown and crispy all over.
- 5
Transfer to paper towels. Drain and season immediately with salt and pepper.
- 6
Toss salad greens with a pinch of salt, pepper, and a light drizzle of olive oil. Serve alongside the warm rice balls.
Tools you’ll need
- three shallow bowls
- deep skillet or small pot
- deep-fry or instant-read thermometer
- slotted spoon
- paper towels
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