Rice balls

Captivating Recipe for Rice Balls with Telemea and Ham

Who doesn't love a crispy, savory snack that brings a touch of joy with every bite? Rice balls are a perfect choice for an appetizer or a delicious snack. With a perfect combination of rice, telemea cheese, and ham, these croquettes quickly become a family and friends' favorite. Additionally, they are ideal for serving at parties or informal gatherings.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 600 g rice (preferably long-grain rice)
- 3 eggs
- 2 egg whites
- 50 g grated parmesan
- 150 g grated telemea cheese
- 40 g diced ham
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 4 tablespoons of breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons of sweet paprika
- A pinch of saffron
- Oil for frying
- Salt and pepper to taste

Helpful tip: Choose a high-quality rice that absorbs water well and remains slightly sticky, like sushi rice. This will help in forming the balls and keeping their shape.

Preparation:

1. Preparing the saffron: Start by dissolving the saffron in a small bowl with 125 ml of warm water. This essential step will enhance the flavor and color of the recipe.

2. Cooking the rice: Rinse the rice well under cold water to remove excess starch. Place the rice in a pot, add the saffron water, a tablespoon of salt, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the rice absorbs all the water (about 15-20 minutes). Cover the pot and set it aside to cool and fluff.

3. Mixing the ingredients: Once the rice has cooled, add the three egg yolks and the grated telemea. Mix well to obtain a homogeneous composition. Then, beat the two egg whites until frothy and gently fold them into the rice mixture using a spatula to maintain airiness.

4. Shaping the balls: Grease your palms with beaten egg white to prevent sticking. Take a portion of the rice mixture and shape it into a ball, making a dent in the center. Place some ham pieces in the dent and then close the ball, ensuring the filling is well hidden.

5. Breading the balls: Dip the balls in beaten egg white, then in the grated parmesan and flour mixed with salt and pepper. Finally, roll them in the breadcrumbs mixed with sweet paprika, ensuring they are evenly coated.

6. Frying: Heat the oil in a deep pan and fry the balls until golden and crispy (about 3-4 minutes on each side). Remove them onto paper towels to absorb excess oil.

7. Serving: Arrange the warm balls on a platter and serve them alongside fresh tomatoes or with a spicy tomato sauce for an even more intense flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
Rice balls contain complex carbohydrates from rice, proteins from eggs and telemea, as well as vitamins and minerals from ham. Additionally, consuming telemea provides calcium and healthy fats, contributing to a balanced diet.

Possible variations:
- Replace telemea with feta or mozzarella cheese for a different flavor.
- Add fresh herbs like parsley or dill to the rice mixture for an extra flavor boost.
- Use chicken or turkey instead of ham for a lighter option.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use pre-cooked rice for this recipe?
Answer: While it is possible, it is recommended to use freshly cooked rice for the best texture and flavor.

- How can I make the balls less greasy?
Answer: You can bake the balls in the oven at 200 degrees Celsius for 20-25 minutes until golden.

Rice balls are a versatile and tasty choice, perfect for a quick snack or a festive meal. With every bite, you will feel the combination of textures and flavors that will delight your senses. So, don't hesitate to let your imagination run wild and explore the variations of this delicious recipe!