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Fried rice balls, often referred to as arancini in Italian cuisine and onigiri in Japanese culture, are a delightful culinary creation that embodies comfort and versatility. These little spheres of joy combine the warm, familiar flavors of rice with a crispy, golden exterior, making them an irresistible snack or appetizer. As simple as they are delicious, fried rice balls can be a perfect addition to any gathering, whether you're hosting a casual get-together, a festive party, or simply looking for a fun family meal.

Fried Rice Balls

Discover the joy of making crispy fried rice balls, a versatile dish loved across cultures! This ultimate guide walks you through everything from essential ingredients to step-by-step instructions for achieving that perfect golden crisp. Whether you opt for Italian arancini or Japanese onigiri, you can personalize your rice balls with a range of delectable fillings. Perfect for any gathering or a fun family meal, fried rice balls are a must-try! #FriedRiceBalls #Arancini #Onigiri #Foodie #CookingTips #EasyRecipes #SnackIdeas
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed

1/4 cup chopped green onions

1/2 cup peas and carrots (frozen or fresh)

1 large egg, beaten

1 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1 cup breadcrumbs

Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions
 

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, grated Parmesan cheese, cubed mozzarella cheese, green onions, peas and carrots, beaten egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.

    Using your hands, take a small amount of the mixture (about 2 tablespoons) and form it into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used up; you should have about 12-15 rice balls.

      Roll each rice ball in breadcrumbs until fully coated. This will give them a crispy exterior when fried.

        In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil over medium heat.

          Once the oil is hot (you can test it by dropping a breadcrumb; it should sizzle), carefully place a few rice balls in the oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.

            Fry the rice balls for about 4-5 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.

              Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried rice balls and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

                Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara, sweet chili sauce, or soy sauce. Enjoy!

                  Prep Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 35 mins | Servings: 12-15 rice balls