Chee-zy Rice Balls

Chee-zy Rice Balls Recipe - Vegetarian Food from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 3 minutes | Servings: 12 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Chee-zy Rice Balls are a delicious and savory snack that are perfect for any occasion. These crispy and cheesy balls are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

History

The origins of Chee-zy Rice Balls are not entirely clear, but they are believed to have originated in the southern United States. This recipe has been passed down through generations and has become a popular dish at parties and gatherings.

Ingredients

4 cups of hot cooked rice
1.5 cups of grated sharp cheddar cheese
2 eggs, slightly beaten
1 tsp of salt
0.25 tsp of ground black pepper
0.25 cup of finely chopped onion
3 tbsp of creole mustard
8 drops of hot pepper sauce
2 cups of soft breadcrumbs
1 tbsp of paprika

How to prepare

Combine rice, cheese, eggs, salt, pepper, onion, mustard, and pepper sauce.
Chill the mixture.
Form the mixture into small balls using 1 tbsp for each ball.
Blend breadcrumbs and paprika together.
Roll the balls in the breadcrumbs.
Deep-fry the balls in hot oil at 375°F (191°C) until they turn golden brown, which should take about 3 minutes.
Drain the balls on absorbent paper and serve them hot.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or sausage to the rice mixture for extra flavor.
Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to chill the rice and cheese mixture before forming the balls. This will help the balls hold their shape better.

- Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to portion out the mixture for even-sized balls.

- Be sure to fry the balls in hot oil to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy on the outside.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chee-zy Rice Balls as an appetizer or snack with a side of marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.

Cooking Techniques

Deep-fry the Chee-zy Rice Balls for a crispy and golden brown exterior.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version of this recipe.

- Substitute the creole mustard with Dijon mustard for a milder flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the rice and cheese mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to form and fry the balls.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chee-zy Rice Balls on a platter garnished with fresh herbs or grated cheese for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chee-zy Rice Balls with a crisp white wine or a cold beer for a delicious combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Chee-zy Rice Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or air fryer until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chee-zy Rice Balls contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chee-zy Rice Balls contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chee-zy Rice Balls contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Chee-zy Rice Balls contains approximately 8 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Chee-zy Rice Balls are a good source of calcium and vitamin A.

Alergens

Chee-zy Rice Balls contain dairy (cheese and eggs) and wheat (breadcrumbs).

Summary

Chee-zy Rice Balls are a delicious and indulgent snack that are high in fat and calories. They should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Chee-zy Rice Balls are a tasty and indulgent snack that are perfect for parties and gatherings. With their crispy exterior and gooey cheese center, these balls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

How did I get this recipe?

It feels like just yesterday when I stumbled upon this recipe for Chee-zy Rice Balls. It was a crisp autumn day, and I found myself rummaging through an old recipe box that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I sifted through the yellowed index cards and tattered pieces of paper, my eyes landed on a faded recipe for Chee-zy Rice Balls.

I had never heard of such a dish before, but something about the name intrigued me. I could almost taste the gooey cheese and savory rice melting in my mouth. I knew I had to give it a try.

I remembered my grandmother telling me that this recipe was given to her by a dear friend many years ago. She had made it for our family gatherings, and it was always a hit. I could almost picture her standing in the kitchen, her apron tied around her waist, stirring the pot of bubbling cheese and rice with a smile on her face.

With a newfound determination, I set out to recreate this beloved recipe. I gathered all the ingredients – rice, cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasonings – and got to work. As I measured and mixed, I couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia wash over me. I could almost hear my grandmother's voice guiding me through each step, just as she had done so many times before.

After shaping the mixture into small balls and rolling them in breadcrumbs, I carefully placed them in the oven to bake. The smell of melted cheese and toasted breadcrumbs filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

As I pulled the Chee-zy Rice Balls out of the oven, I couldn't wait to taste them. I bit into one, savoring the creamy cheese and fluffy rice. It was even better than I had imagined.

From that day on, Chee-zy Rice Balls became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made them for family dinners, potlucks, and special occasions. Each time I served them, I felt a connection to my grandmother and her friend who had shared this recipe with us so long ago.

Over the years, I have made some slight adjustments to the original recipe, adding my own twist with different cheeses and seasonings. But the essence of the dish remains the same – a comforting blend of cheesy goodness that never fails to put a smile on my loved ones' faces.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about the day I discovered the recipe for Chee-zy Rice Balls, I am filled with gratitude for the gift of cooking that has been passed down through generations. It is a tradition that has brought joy, love, and delicious food into our lives, and I am honored to continue sharing it with those I hold dear.