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Golden Beef-Stuffed Rice Balls Recipe

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4.3 from 11 reviews

Golden Rice Balls with Beef are crispy, flavorful appetizers made from a delicious mixture of cooked rice, seasoned ground beef, cheese, and herbs, coated in breadcrumbs and deep-fried to golden perfection. These bite-sized treats combine the comforting taste of beef and cheese with a crunchy exterior, perfect for parties or a satisfying snack.

Ingredients

For the Rice Balls

  • 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
  • 1 cup ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

For Coating

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 eggs, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Oil, for frying (about 1-2 inches deep)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beef Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika if using. Remove from the heat and allow the beef mixture to cool slightly.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed beef mixture, grated cheese, beaten egg, and chopped parsley. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated to form a sticky mixture suitable for shaping.
  3. Shape the Rice Balls: Using your hands, take small portions of the rice mixture and form them into balls about the size of a golf ball. Repeat this process until all the mixture is used, ensuring the balls are compact and hold together.
  4. Prepare Coating: Set up a breading station by placing the beaten eggs in one bowl and the breadcrumbs in another. This will make the coating process efficient and neat.
  5. Coat the Rice Balls: Dip each rice ball first into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, then roll it thoroughly in the breadcrumbs to fully coat the surface. Place the coated balls on a tray ready for frying.
  6. Heat the Oil: Pour enough oil into a deep skillet or frying pan to achieve a depth of 1-2 inches. Heat the oil over medium heat until hot but not smoking, approximately 350°F (175°C).
  7. Fry the Rice Balls: Carefully add the rice balls in batches to the hot oil. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes per batch, turning as needed, until all sides are golden brown and crispy.
  8. Drain Excess Oil: Remove the fried rice balls using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
  9. Serve: Serve the golden rice balls warm with your favorite dipping sauces such as marinara, garlic sauce, or aioli for an enjoyable appetizer or snack.

Notes

  • Using day-old rice helps to prevent the rice balls from becoming too sticky and helps them hold their shape better.
  • The paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor, but it is optional based on taste preference.
  • Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to avoid greasy rice balls.
  • Work in batches while frying to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit the beef and use a plant-based ground meat substitute or sautéed mushrooms.