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Italian Rice Balls

Healthy Italian Rice Balls: A Guilt-Free Comfort Delight

Delight in these Healthy Italian Rice Balls, a guilt-free comfort food perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Cooling Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 balls
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Rice Mixture
  • 1 cup Arborio Rice Provides the creamy texture essential for these Italian rice balls
  • 3 cups Chicken Broth Adds rich flavor; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian alternative
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Imbues each rice ball with savory richness; swap for nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Parsley Brightens the flavor; consider using basil or thyme
For the Filling
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Ensures a gooey, melty center; substitute with favorite melting cheese
For Coating
  • 2 large Eggs Help bind the rice mixture; replace with flax eggs for a vegan option
  • 1 cup Bread Crumbs Creates the crispy outer layer when baked; gluten-free options are available
Seasonings and Oil
  • to taste Salt Essential for flavor enhancement
  • to taste Pepper Essential for flavor enhancement
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil For brushing the tops before baking

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook 1 cup of Arborio rice in 3 cups of chicken broth over medium heat. Stir occasionally until al dente, about 18-20 minutes. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.
  2. Shape a small handful of the cooled rice mixture into a ball, place a cube of mozzarella in the center, and mold the rice around it. Repeat with remaining mixture.
  3. Beat 2 eggs until frothy, dip each arancini ball in the egg mixture, then roll in bread crumbs to coat.
  4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange arancini on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, brush lightly with olive oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden.
  5. Let cool slightly before serving. Pair with marinara sauce for dipping.

Nutrition

Serving: 2ballsCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 10gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg

Notes

These arancini are versatile; try different fillings and enjoy a delicious twist on the classic recipe.

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