Mozzarella and Tomato Supplì Recipe: Crispy Italian Rice Croquettes
Supplì mozzarella e pomodoro, or Mozzarella and Tomato Supplì, are a delightful Italian appetizer known for their crispy golden crust and gooey, cheesy center. Perfect for entertaining or simply indulging in a taste of Italy, this recipe serves 10 pieces of these iconic croquettes. Follow this detailed guide to create them perfectly.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Carnaroli rice | 320g |
| Yellow onion (chopped) | ½ |
| Tomato passata | 250g |
| Vegetable broth (hot) | 1L |
| Mozzarella (cubed, 1 cm pieces) | 150g |
| Grana Padano DOP cheese (grated) | 30g |
| Extra virgin olive oil | As needed |
| Fine salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Eggs | 3 |
| Breadcrumbs | 300g |
| Corn oil (for frying) | As needed |
Nutritional Information (Per Supplì)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Protein | 8g |
| Fats | 8g |
| Saturated Fats | 2.5g |
| Cholesterol | 35mg |
| Sodium | 150mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Start by peeling and finely chopping the onion.
- In a large saucepan, heat a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for approximately 3 minutes, or until softened and translucent.
- Stir in the Carnaroli rice and toast it lightly for 2 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
- Pour in enough hot vegetable broth to cover the rice, followed by the tomato passata.
- Stir gently and allow the rice to simmer, adding more broth as needed to keep the mixture moist but not soupy.
- Cook the rice until tender, ensuring it absorbs the liquid fully and the consistency is thick and dry. This process should take about 18-20 minutes.
Step 3: Season and Chill
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the grated Grana Padano cheese.
- Add a pinch of black pepper to taste and mix until well incorporated.
- Spread the cooked rice mixture onto a flat surface, such as a baking sheet, to cool.
- Once it reaches room temperature, transfer the rice to the refrigerator and chill for at least 2 hours. This step ensures the mixture becomes firm and easy to shape.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
- Cut the mozzarella into small cubes, about 1 cm each. Set aside.
Step 5: Shape the Supplì
- Remove the chilled rice mixture from the refrigerator.
- Wet your hands with water to prevent sticking, then scoop a spoonful of rice into your palm.
- Flatten the rice slightly and place a cube of mozzarella in the center.
- Encase the mozzarella by folding the rice around it, shaping it into an oval or cylindrical croquette.
- Repeat the process with the remaining rice and mozzarella to create 10 supplì.
Step 6: Coat the Supplì
- Beat the eggs in a small bowl with a pinch of salt.
- Dip each supplì into the beaten eggs, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Roll the coated supplì in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- For extra crispiness, repeat the process to create a double coating. Place the breaded supplì on a tray.
Step 7: Fry the Supplì
- Heat plenty of corn oil in a deep frying pan or pot until it reaches 165-170°C (330-340°F).
- Fry 2-3 supplì at a time to maintain the oil temperature.
- Cook for several minutes, turning occasionally, until the supplì are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried supplì and drain them on a tray lined with paper towels.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the supplì hot to enjoy their signature molten mozzarella centers.
- Pair with a simple salad or marinara dipping sauce for a complete antipasto experience.
Tips for Success
- Rice Variety: Carnaroli rice is preferred for its ability to absorb flavors while maintaining a firm texture. If unavailable, Arborio can be used as a substitute.
- Double Panure: A double breadcrumb coating ensures a crunchier texture that holds up to frying.
- Oil Temperature: Maintaining the correct frying temperature is key to preventing greasy supplì. Use a kitchen thermometer for accuracy.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These Mozzarella and Tomato Supplì are a classic Italian favorite, perfect for casual gatherings, holiday spreads, or simply treating yourself to a taste of Italy at home. With their crispy exterior and gooey cheese-filled center, they are sure to impress and delight.
