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Fried Stuffed Rice Balls

These golden, crisp fried stuffed rice balls are a wonderful way to transform leftover mushroom risotto into a sophisticated vegetarian starter or snack. Known traditionally as arancini, these Italian-inspired treats feature a crunchy breadcrumb coating that gives way to a savoury, earthy rice centre. The real delight, however, is the hidden core of mozzarella which melts during frying to create a satisfyingly gooey finish.

Ideal for entertaining or as a weekend treat, this recipe focuses on simple textures and rich autumnal flavours. Serving these hot with a side of spicy tomato sauce or a simple garlic aioli helps to balance the richness of the cheese. Because they use chilled risotto, they are remarkably easy to handle, making them a stress-free addition to any party platter or family dinner.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Fried Stuffed Rice Balls

  • 725ml chilled mushroom risotto

  • 12 (1/2-inch) cubes mozzarella (about 30g total)

  • 130g plain flour

  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten

  • 240ml fine dry bread crumbs (not seasoned)

  • About 1925ml vegetable oil for frying

  • a deep-fat thermometer

How to make Fried Stuffed Rice Balls

Roll chilled risotto into 12 (1 1/2-inch) balls using wet hands. Poke a small hole in centre of each ball and insert a cube of cheese, then re-form into a ball.

Put flour, eggs, and bread crumbs in 3 separate bowls. Dredge 1 risotto ball in flour, shaking off excess. Dip in egg, letting excess drip off, then dredge in bread crumbs and transfer to a sheet of wax paper. Repeat with remaining balls.

Heat 1 1/2 to 2 inches oil in a 4- to 5-quart heavy pot until thermometer registers 182°C. Working in batches of 4, lower rice balls into oil with a slotted spoon and fry, turning occasionally, until golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes per batch. Transfer with slotted spoon to paper towels to drain. Return oil to 182°C between batches. 3Let balls stand 2 minutes (for cheese to melt).

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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