There’s something about the satisfying crunch of a perfectly fried Supplì that draws me in every time. As I bite into these delightful Italian rice balls, the golden exterior gives way to a creamy risotto interior, with gooey cheese stretching playfully from the center. The first time I tasted them at a rustic Italian trattoria, I was instantly hooked. This simple yet divine snack embodies the beauty of Italian comfort food.
Ideal for gatherings or a cozy night in, Supplì are incredibly versatile. You can whip them up ahead of time, allowing their crispy exterior to be the crowning glory of your next dinner party. As I prepare these little bites of joy, I’m reminded that gourmet doesn’t have to mean complicated. With just a few pantry staples and the magic of a little frying oil, you can create a dish that impresses every guest. Let’s dive into making these authentic Italian rice balls and bring that authentic trattoria experience into your home!
Why will you love Supplì (Italian Rice Balls)?
Irresistible crunch: Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch from the panko breadcrumbs that will have everyone coming back for more.
Creamy goodness: The interior features a luscious, creamy risotto that perfectly contrasts with the crispy exterior, ensuring a delightful mouthful.
Versatile flavors: Feel free to switch up the cheese or risotto flavors for a personalized twist; the possibilities are virtually endless!
Make ahead magic: Prepare them in advance for quick frying, ideal for gatherings or cozy nights in with minimal hassle.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a party or a quiet evening, these tasty bites will have your guests raving, showcasing the charm of authentic Italian comfort food!
Supplì (Italian Rice Balls) Ingredients
Prep your kitchen for a delightful Italian adventure with these essential ingredients!
For the Risotto
• Risotto – The creamy base that provides structure; make sure it’s completely cool before shaping.
For the Cheese Filling
• Mozzarella – The star ingredient for a gooey, melty surprise inside; feel free to swap with smoked mozzarella or taleggio for a twist.
For the Coating
• All-Purpose Flour – Helps the breadcrumbs adhere and adds a layer of flavor; season it with salt and pepper for the best taste.
• Egg & Water Mixture – This binding mix ensures the breadcrumbs stick beautifully to the Supplì.
• Panko Breadcrumbs – Offers a light, crispy coating for frying; regular breadcrumbs can be used in a pinch.
For Frying
• Canola Oil – Ideal for deep frying as it maintains high temperatures without smoking; consider using any high smoke point oil you have on hand.
Bring these ingredients together, and you’ll be on your way to creating delicious Supplì (Italian Rice Balls) that will make your kitchen feel like an Italian trattoria!
How to Make Supplì (Italian Rice Balls)
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Prepare Breading Station: Set out three shallow bowls with flour, the egg and water mixture, and panko breadcrumbs. This organization will help you coat your rice balls smoothly.
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Shape Supplì: Grab a ping pong-sized portion of cooled risotto. Create a small indentation, fill it with a piece of mozzarella, and then reform it into a ball ensuring the cheese is completely enclosed.
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Dredge Balls: Roll each rice ball in the seasoned flour, dip it into the egg mixture, and then roll it in the panko breadcrumbs until fully coated. This will create that delightful crunchy exterior.
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Fry: Heat the oil to 350°F (170°C). Fry the Supplì in small batches for about 4-5 minutes until they achieve a golden brown color, turning them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
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Drain & Serve: Carefully remove the Supplì and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve hot with marinara sauce or garlic aioli, or enjoy them at room temperature.
Optional: Serve alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Supplì (Italian Rice Balls)
- Cool Risotto Properly: Ensure the risotto is completely cooled before shaping to prevent a gooey mess during frying; it should hold its shape well.
- No Crowding: Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature; overcrowding can lead to soggy Supplì instead of a crispy exterior.
- Crunchy Coating: For extra crunch, allow the breaded Supplì to rest for 10-20 minutes before frying to set the coating.
- Oil Temperature: Consistently monitor your frying oil temperature; if it’s too low, your Supplì will absorb excess oil, becoming greasy.
- Experiment with Fillings: While mozzarella is traditional, feel free to explore other cheese options and flavor-infused risottos for unique takes on Supplì!
- Use Fresh Breadcrumbs: For the best flavor and texture, freshly made breadcrumbs are preferable to ensure you achieve a superb crispy layer when frying your Supplì.
How to Store and Freeze Supplì
- Fridge: Store cooked Supplì in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Freezer: If you want to make suppli ahead of time, freeze un-fried balls on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. They can be stored for over 3 months.
- Reheating: To maintain their crispiness, reheat frozen Supplì in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 5-10 minutes until warm and crunchy.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare up to the frying stage and refrigerate for up to 2 days in advance for stress-free meal preparation!
Make Ahead Options
Supplì (Italian Rice Balls) are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the rice balls up to 24 hours in advance by shaping them, coating them in breadcrumbs, and then refrigerating them covered. For longer storage, you can freeze them un-fried for up to 3 months; just ensure they are in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry them straight from the refrigerator or freezer (adding an extra minute or two to the frying time). This makes it easy to enjoy delicious, golden Supplì with minimal effort, ensuring that they are just as crispy and delightful as when freshly made!
Supplì (Italian Rice Balls) Variations
Customize your Supplì adventure with these delightful twists and enhancements!
- Cheese Creativity: Experiment with different cheeses like gorgonzola or burrata for a bold flavor surprise inside.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley to your risotto for a fragrant boost that sings of Italy.
- Spice It Up: Incorporate a pinch of crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce in the risotto to bring the heat!
- Veggie Delight: Mix in finely chopped sautéed veggies like spinach or mushrooms to the risotto for added nutrition and flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for a crunchy coating while keeping things gluten-free.
- Smoky Flavor: Try smoked mozzarella or add a touch of smoked paprika to the risotto for a delightful smoky aroma.
- Sweet and Savory: Make dessert Supplì by filling with chocolate or sweetened ricotta, coating them in crushed nuts before frying.
- Flavorful Risotto Base: Switch it up with saffron or mushroom risotto to create a truly unique twist on this classic recipe.
Let your creativity shine and enjoy each unique bite of these Italian rice balls!
What to Serve with Supplì (Italian Rice Balls)?
Elevate your Supplì experience with delicious sides that perfectly complement these crispy, cheesy treats.
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Garlic Aioli: This creamy dip adds a rich garlicky flavor, enhancing the snack’s savory profile. It’s perfect for those who love a kick in every bite.
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Marinara Sauce: A classic pairing, this tangy tomato sauce provides a delightful contrast to the rich, cheesy Supplì, making each bite even more satisfying.
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Arugula Salad: A fresh salad with peppery arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the rice balls.
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Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens the flavors and cuts through the greasiness of the fried Supplì, adding a zesty splash that elevates every bite.
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Wine Pairing: A crisp Pinot Grigio or a light-bodied Chianti enhances the Italian flavor profile, making your meal feel beautifully Italian and sophisticated.
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Stuffed Peppers: Add a hearty side like stuffed bell peppers filled with seasoned rice and minced meat; they provide a different texture and heartiness to complement the Supplì.
The combination of these sides will transform your Supplì into an unforgettable meal that will leave everyone reminiscing about that delightful evening!
Supplì (Italian Rice Balls) Recipe FAQs
What type of risotto should I use for Supplì?
You can use your favorite risotto recipe as the base for Supplì. Just make sure that it is cooled completely before shaping, as warm risotto can become too sticky and difficult to handle.
How should I store leftover Supplì?
To keep your cooked Supplì fresh, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy them for snack time or as a quick meal!
Can I freeze Supplì?
Absolutely! If you want to make these delightful rice balls ahead of time, freeze them before frying. Simply lay the un-fried Supplì on a baking sheet to freeze them individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for over 3 months.
How do I reheat frozen Supplì?
For the best results, reheat frozen Supplì in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Bake them for 5-10 minutes until they’re hot and the coating is crispy again. This ensures that you preserve their delightful crunch!
What can I do if my Supplì fall apart while frying?
If your Supplì are falling apart, it could mean the risotto wasn’t cool enough before shaping, or they may need more binding. Make sure to cool the risotto thoroughly, and consider adding a bit more egg mixture to the rice if needed. Fry in small batches to avoid overcooking as well.
Are there any dietary considerations for Supplì?
Yes! Supplì can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensuring that your risotto ingredients are free from gluten as well. Always double-check ingredient labels if you’re catering to dietary restrictions or allergies.
Supplì: Crispy Italian Rice Balls with Melty Cheese Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Breading Station: Set out three shallow bowls with flour, the egg and water mixture, and panko breadcrumbs.
- Shape Supplì: Take a ping pong-sized portion of cooled risotto, create an indentation, fill it with mozzarella, and reform it into a ball.
- Dredge Balls: Roll each ball in the seasoned flour, dip it in the egg mixture, and then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Fry: Heat oil to 350°F (170°C) and fry the Supplì in small batches for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
- Drain & Serve: Place cooked Supplì on paper towels, serve hot with marinara sauce or garlic aioli.