Spicy Rice Balls

Spicy Rice Balls Recipe - Ground Beef, Celery, Onion, Garlic, and Chili Powder

Region / culture: USA | Servings: 4

Introduction

Spicy Rice Balls are a delicious and flavorful appetizer or snack that combines the heat of chili sauce with the comforting texture of rice. These crispy, golden brown balls are perfect for serving at parties or as a tasty treat for yourself.

History

The origins of Spicy Rice Balls can be traced back to Italian arancini, which are fried rice balls typically filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables. This recipe puts a spicy twist on the traditional arancini by incorporating chili sauce and ground beef for a bold and zesty flavor.

Ingredients

0.5 lb (227 g) of lean ground beef
0.33 cup of finely chopped celery
0.33 cup of finely chopped onion
1 clove of garlic, minced
1 tsp of chili powder
0.5 tsp of salt
0.25 tsp of ground black pepper
0.33 cup of chili sauce
2 tbsp of chopped fresh parsley
3 cups of hot cooked rice
3 tbsp of grated parmesan cheese
1 tbsp of butter or margarine
1 beaten egg
0.5 cup of dry breadcrumbs
vegetable oil for deep-fat frying

How to prepare

In a large skillet, cook beef, celery, onion, and garlic until the meat is browned, stirring to crumble. Add chili powder, salt, pepper, chili sauce, and 0.25 cup of water. Simmer, uncovered, for 30 minutes or until the sauce is very thick. Stir in parsley and set aside.
Combine rice, cheese, and butter. While still warm, shape 2 tbsp of the rice mixture into balls. Press the centers with your thumb and fill each with 1 tbsp of the meat mixture. Enclose the rice mixture to seal.
Dip the rice balls in beaten egg and roll them in bread crumbs. Fry them in hot oil (365°F (185°C)) in a large saucepan for 1 minute or until they turn golden brown. Drain them on paper towels and serve them warm.

Variations

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter option.
Add diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes for an extra kick of heat.
Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, for a unique flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the beef mixture until the sauce is very thick to prevent the rice balls from becoming soggy.

- Use hot cooked rice to easily shape the rice balls and ensure they hold together.

- Be careful when frying the rice balls, as the oil can splatter. Use a splatter guard if needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Spicy Rice Balls with a side of marinara sauce for dipping or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Frying the rice balls in hot oil ensures a crispy and golden brown exterior while keeping the inside moist and flavorful.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use breadcrumbs or panko instead of dry breadcrumbs for a different texture.

- Swap out the chili sauce for hot sauce or salsa for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the rice balls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to fry. This makes them a convenient option for parties or gatherings.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Spicy Rice Balls on a platter garnished with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Spicy Rice Balls with a cold beer or a glass of white wine for a delicious and satisfying combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Spicy Rice Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Spicy Rice Balls contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Spicy Rice Balls contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Spicy Rice Balls contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Spicy Rice Balls contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Spicy Rice Balls are a good source of iron, vitamin B12, and zinc.

Alergens

Spicy Rice Balls contain dairy (cheese) and eggs.

Summary

Spicy Rice Balls are a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. They are a flavorful and satisfying snack option.

Summary

Spicy Rice Balls are a tasty and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of chili sauce, beef, and rice in a crispy and golden brown ball. Whether served as an appetizer or snack, these rice balls are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately intrigued. I was visiting my friend Maria, who had just returned from a trip to India. She had learned to make these spicy rice balls from a local chef and was eager to share the recipe with me. As soon as she described the dish to me, I knew I had to try it for myself.

Maria handed me a piece of paper with the ingredients and instructions written out in neat script. As I read through the list of spices and herbs, my mouth began to water. Cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder – the flavors were bold and exotic, unlike anything I had ever cooked before.

I decided to make the rice balls for dinner that night. I gathered all the ingredients and set to work in the kitchen. I cooked the rice until it was fluffy and aromatic, then added the spices and herbs, stirring them in until they formed a fragrant paste. I let the mixture cool slightly before shaping it into small balls and frying them until they were golden and crispy.

As I took my first bite of the spicy rice balls, I was transported to a faraway land. The flavors were intense and complex, each bite a symphony of spices and textures. I could taste the earthiness of the cumin, the brightness of the coriander, and the heat of the chili powder. It was a culinary adventure unlike any I had experienced before.

I made the spicy rice balls again and again, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes. Sometimes I added a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness, other times I sprinkled fresh cilantro on top for a burst of freshness. Each batch was slightly different, but always delicious.

Over the years, I shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the knowledge I had gained from Maria. They were always amazed by the bold flavors and unique combination of spices. Some even said it was the best thing they had ever tasted.

As I continued to cook and experiment with the recipe, I began to think of all the other recipes I had collected over the years. Some came from cookbooks, others from friends and family members. Each one told a story, a tale of where it came from and how it had been passed down through generations.

I thought of my own grandmother, who had taught me how to make her famous apple pie. She had learned the recipe from her own mother, who had learned it from hers. Each time I made that pie, I felt a connection to my past, a link to my family history.

And now, as I stood in my kitchen, shaping the spicy rice balls with my hands, I realized that I was creating a new link in that chain. This recipe, with its bold flavors and exotic spices, would be passed down to future generations, a gift from me to them.

As I sat down to enjoy my dinner that night, savoring each bite of the spicy rice balls, I felt a sense of pride and satisfaction. I had learned something new, something special, and now I was sharing it with the world. And as I finished my meal, I knew that this recipe would always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past and to each other.