Brazilian
👍 Beginner Friendly
40 mineasy
BrazilianSnack
Recipe Story
origins & traditionsBolinhos de Arroz are traditional savory rice balls found throughout Brazil, particularly popular as an afternoon snack or party appetizer. These delightful morsels transform simple cooked rice into an extraordinary treat by binding it with eggs and flour, forming balls around a cheese center, then frying until golden and crispy. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and the soft, cheesy interior makes them utterly addictive. Often served at birthday parties, family gatherings, and street food stalls, these rice balls represent Brazilian home cooking at its finest - resourceful, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. The addition of fresh herbs like parsley and scallions adds brightness, while garlic provides depth. Families across Brazil have their own variations, sometimes adding ham or vegetables to the mixture.
Instructions
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled cooked white rice with beaten eggs, flour, and salt until well mixed. The mixture should hold together when pressed.
Finely chop the garlic, parsley, and scallions. Add them to the rice mixture along with black pepper and mix thoroughly.
Cut the mozzarella cheese into small cubes, about 1/2 inch each. Set aside on a plate.
Take about 2 tablespoons of the rice mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a cheese cube in the center.
Carefully wrap the rice mixture around the cheese, forming a smooth ball about 1.5 inches in diameter. Ensure the cheese is completely enclosed. Repeat with remaining mixture.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). The oil should be at least 2 inches deep.
Gently lower 4-5 rice balls into the hot oil using a slotted spoon. Do not overcrowd.
Fry for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally with the slotted spoon, until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
Remove the bolinhos with the slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Continue frying in batches until all rice balls are cooked. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Bolinhos de Arroz - Crispy Rice Balls
4.9 (15)
Golden-fried rice balls stuffed with melted cheese, a beloved street food that combines leftover rice with herbs and spices for an irresistible crispy exterior and creamy center.
medium
35 min
6 servings
Ingredients
0 of 10 checked
Main
- 3 cups rice-white, cooked and cooled
- 2 pieces eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cups flour, all-purpose
Filling
- 1 cups cheese-mozzarella, cut into small cubes
Seasonings
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons parsley, fresh, chopped
- 1/4 pieces onions, finely chopped scallions
- 1 teaspoons salt, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoons black-pepper, freshly ground
Cooking
- 4 cups vegetable-oil, for deep frying
Chef Tips
expert advice•For best results, use day-old rice that has been refrigerated - the drier texture helps the balls hold together better.
•If your mixture is too wet, add more flour one tablespoon at a time.
•You can substitute mozzarella with other melting cheeses like provolone or catupiry for different flavors.
•For a lighter version, these can be baked at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, though they won't be as crispy.
•Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture for a spicy kick.
•The rice balls can be frozen after forming - just fry them directly from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to cooking time.
•Serve with hot sauce, ketchup, or a tangy vinaigrette dipping sauce.
•These are best enjoyed fresh but can be made ahead and reheated.
