Dorothy'S Rice Balls
Dorothy's Rice Balls are crispy, cheesy bites with Italian herbs, perfect as an appetizer or snack, appealing to those who enjoy flavorful, savory finger foods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook rice and let cool.
- Mix all ingredients except egg. Shape into golf ball-sized balls.
- Roll each ball in bread crumbs, then in beaten egg, then in bread crumbs again to coat thoroughly.
- Deep fry the coated rice balls in hot oil until golden brown.
- Remove with slotted spoon and let cool. Can be frozen and reheated.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use day-old rice that has been properly cooled to help the balls hold their shape. If you don't have Romano cheese, Parmesan is a great substitute. To enhance flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or swap oregano for fresh basil. Make sure the oil is sufficiently hot before frying to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these rice balls as a delightful appetizer or snack, perhaps alongside marinara sauce for dipping. They pair beautifully with Italian Bread Soup or can be enjoyed on a platter with olives and cheeses for a more extensive spread. For a complete meal, serve with a light salad or alongside Burnt Butter Ziti(Italian).
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover rice balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. They can also be frozen for up to a month; simply thaw before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dorothy'S Rice Balls contains roughly 317 calories, with 8g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (99% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (69% of the Daily Value), and calcium (64% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1911mg per serving (83% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake these rice balls instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the rice balls for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
What can I do if the mixture is too wet?
If the mixture is too wet to hold its shape, try adding a bit more bread crumbs or a small amount of flour to help bind it together. Letting the mixture chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes can also make it easier to shape the balls.
Can I add different ingredients to the filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the filling with cooked vegetables, herbs, or even small pieces of cooked meat like Italian sausage. Just ensure that additional ingredients are well-drained and chopped finely to maintain the right texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).