Simple fried rice croquettes, or rice balls, are an irresistible culinary delight appreciated by everyone. They are made using cooked rice, generally mixed with other ingredients such as cheese, eggs, herbs, and spices to create a flavorful and creamy mixture, which is shaped as desired, often round or oval. They are then fried until golden and crispy. Rice croquettes can be served as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, and are often accompanied by sauces or condiments that enhance their flavor.
One of the main reasons for their appeal is the combination of textures: the crispness of the outer coating combines with the creaminess of the rice, creating a pleasant contrast on the palate.
Rice balls are appreciated for their versatility. They can be customized according to individual tastes and preferences, allowing experimentation with different types of rice, cheeses, and flavors. They are therefore suitable for any occasion, from a simple snack to a buffet option or a side dish for a main meal.
Moreover, they can be enriched with ingredients such as vegetables, meat, fish, or legumes, etc.
In summary, they are a loved dish for their combination of textures, flavor, and versatility. They are a creative culinary option that can adapt to a variety of occasions and palates, offering a satisfying and delicious gastronomic experience.
If you’re looking for more croquette recipes, try these:
- Difficulty: Medium
- Cost: Very economical
- Rest time: 15 Minutes
- Preparation time: 20 Minutes
- Portions: 33
- Cooking methods: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
- Seasonality: All seasons
- Energy 68.38 (Kcal)
- Carbohydrates 9.70 (g) of which sugars 0.02 (g)
- Proteins 2.83 (g)
- Fat 1.89 (g) of which saturated 1.13 (g)of which unsaturated 0.74 (g)
- Fibers 0.16 (g)
- Sodium 70.76 (mg)
Indicative values for a portion of 22 g processed in an automated way starting from the nutritional information available on the CREA* and FoodData Central** databases. It is not food and / or nutritional advice.
* CREATES Food and Nutrition Research Center: https://www.crea.gov.it/alimenti-e-nutrizione https://www.alimentinutrizione.it ** U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service. FoodData Central, 2019. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov
Ingredients for Fried Rice Croquettes
- 14 oz Arborio rice
- 5 oz Grana Padano cheese, grated
- 1 egg
- 1 egg yolk
- to taste parsley
- to taste salt
Tools
- Pot
- Bowls
- Pan
- Slotted spoon
- Paper towels
How to make Rice Croquettes
To prepare the rice croquettes, start with the rice. Cook it in salted water, draining it when it’s still al dente; place it in a bowl and let it cool slightly.
Add to the cooked rice the egg, the grated cheese (not all of it), salt, and parsley. Knead with your hands (if the rice isn’t too hot) or with a wooden spoon.
If the rice is not yet workable and you can’t form the balls, add the remaining cheese and an egg yolk. During this phase, you need to work the rice well by hand, and it should have an almost sticky consistency, otherwise, you won’t be able to form the croquettes.
While the frying oil heats up in the pan (you need about 10 oz), form the croquettes: take small portions of the mixture (1 oz) and roll them into balls in your hands. If you like, you can also shape the rice balls differently. Occasionally, wash your hands: you’ll be able to form the balls better! This way, you won’t need to grease your hands or bread the croquettes.
Fry a few croquettes at a time, so as not to lower the oil temperature too much, and drain them after 8-10 minutes when they are golden brown. Let them rest for a few minutes on paper towels and serve piping hot. Enjoy your meal!
Storage of Rice Croquettes
Fried rice croquettes can be kept at room temperature for a maximum of 1 day, although I recommend consuming them while they are still hot and crispy. If they cool down, simply reheat them quickly in the oven or air fryer.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is the best type of rice to use?
Use your preferred rice. In my house, we always have Carnaroli, Arborio, or Originario rice; they all work well.
Can I bake them instead of frying?
They are good both baked and fried, though I find them much crispier when fried. If you want to bake them or use an air fryer, use the convection function at 350°F for at least 15 minutes, turning the croquettes, drizzled with oil, from time to time.
Can I stuff them?
Yes, certainly: place a small cube of cheese or some cured meat like prosciutto, ham, or salami, etc., in the center of a small portion of the mixture.
