Deep-Fried Rice Balls

Total Time

Prep: 35 min. + chilling Cook: 5 min./batch

Makes

12 servings

Updated: Jul. 07, 2023
My mother moved in with us about eight years ago and started making this side dish. Now that she is her ninety's, I've taken over the duty of making these unique rice balls. Everyone in our family is thrilled to see them when they are placed on the table.—Elizabeth Blake, Chesapeake, Virginia
Deep-Fried Rice Balls Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Ingredients

  • 4-1/2 cups water
  • 2 cups uncooked long grain rice
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 4 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons dried parsley flakes
  • 1-3/4 cups seasoned bread crumbs
  • Oil for deep-fat frying

Directions

  1. In a large saucepan, bring the water, rice, butter, salt and pepper to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 15-18 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender. Cool slightly.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the eggs, cheese, parsley and rice. Cover and refrigerate for 20 minutes. Place bread crumbs in a shallow bowl. Shape 1/2 cups of rice mixture into balls; roll in bread crumbs.
  3. In a deep-fat fryer or electric skillet, heat oil to 375°. Fry rice balls, a few at a time until golden brown, 2-3 minutes. Drain on paper towels.

Nutrition Facts

1 rice ball: 343 calories, 20g fat (3g saturated fat), 77mg cholesterol, 461mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 7g protein.