Rice balls

Captivating Rice Balls Recipe: The Perfect Vegan Dessert

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Who hasn’t dreamed of a simple yet flavorful dessert that brings joy and satisfies the sweet tooth? Rice balls are exactly that! With a rich history, these little delights are often associated with unforgettable moments around the table, making them an ideal vegan option and a comforting dessert for the whole family. Start your culinary adventure with me and discover how to prepare these delicious rice balls!

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 small cup of rice (preferably short-grain rice)
- 2 cups of water
- 200 g dark chocolate (70% cocoa for an intense flavor)
- 4 tablespoons of raisins
- 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder
- 4 tablespoons of shredded coconut (plus extra for decoration)
- 1 vial of rum essence
- 2 tablespoons of sour cherries from compote or preserves
- Powdered sugar (optional, for extra sweetness)
- Coconut for decoration

Ingredient details:
Short-grain rice is ideal for achieving a sticky texture, perfect for forming balls. Dark chocolate not only adds a decadent flavor but balances the natural sweetness of the raisins and cherries. Coconut brings an exotic taste and a crunchy texture. If you choose to add powdered sugar, opt for a high-quality one that melts easily.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the rice: Start by rinsing the rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. This step helps remove excess starch and ensures a better texture. Place the rinsed rice in a pot and add the 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, until the water is fully absorbed and the rice is soft. Allow it to cool.

2. Melting the chocolate: In a heatproof bowl, add the dark chocolate and place it over a double boiler or in the microwave (in 30-second intervals, stirring in between). Make sure the chocolate is completely melted and smooth, then let it cool slightly.

3. Combining the ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooled rice with the raisins, cocoa powder, shredded coconut, rum essence, and cherries. If you desire a sweeter dessert, add powdered sugar to taste. Mix well until you achieve a homogeneous composition.

4. Forming the balls: With wet hands (this prevents sticking), take a portion of the mixture and form balls the size of walnuts. Place the formed balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

5. Chocolate coating: Dip each ball in the melted chocolate, ensuring it is well covered, then place them back on the sheet. Sprinkle shredded coconut on top for an appealing look. Allow to cool completely so the chocolate hardens.

6. Serving and storage: The rice balls can be served immediately, but they are even more delicious after sitting in the fridge for a few hours. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they can stay fresh for several days.

Practical tips:
- If you want a healthier version, you can replace dark chocolate with a lower-sugar dark chocolate.
- Experiment by adding other dried fruits (like cranberries or apricots) or ground nuts for a different texture.
- If you have a blender handy, you can turn some of the rice into fine flour to add extra consistency.

Nutritional benefits:
This vegan dessert is rich in complex carbohydrates from rice, fiber from raisins, and healthy fats from coconut. Dark chocolate is an excellent source of antioxidants, and cherries provide a delicious taste along with essential vitamins.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use brown rice? Yes, but the cooking time will be longer, and you'll need to adjust the water amount.
- Can I substitute raisins with something else? Absolutely! You can use chopped figs or dates for a different flavor.
- Is it necessary to add cocoa? No, but it adds a note of intensity and depth to the dessert.

Serving suggestion:
These balls are delicious on their own, but you can serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a portion of Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast.

Now that you have all the information you need, it's time to get to work! Enjoy making these rice balls and the moments of indulgence with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!