Golden Rice Croquettes with Stracchino
Category: Appetizers
Servings: 30 croquettes
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Vialone Nano Rice | 200g |
| Saffron Pistils | 0.3g |
| Vegetable Broth | As needed |
| Butter | 100g |
| Parmigiano Reggiano DOP | 100g |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | As needed |
| Fine Salt | As needed |
| Stracchino Cheese | 120g |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Panko Bread Crumbs | As needed |
| Sunflower Seed Oil | As needed |
Instructions
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Infuse the Saffron: Begin by infusing the saffron. Place the pistils in a small bowl and cover them with a little hot water, allowing them to steep and release their color and flavor.
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Toast the Rice: In a large saucepan, heat a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the Vialone Nano rice. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
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Cook the Rice: Slowly add the warm vegetable broth, one ladle at a time, stirring the rice gently each time the broth is absorbed. Continue this process until the rice is cooked through but still slightly al dente. Midway through cooking, add the saffron infusion and stir to combine. Season with salt to taste.
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Finish the Rice: Once the rice is fully cooked, turn off the heat. Add the butter and Parmigiano Reggiano DOP to the rice, stirring until the mixture becomes creamy and well-blended. Transfer the rice to a tray and spread it out to allow it to cool and firm up.
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Shape the Croquettes: Once the rice has cooled and is firm enough to handle, take small portions of rice (around 30 grams each) and form them into small oval or round shapes. Press a small indentation in the center of each croquette using your thumb. Continue forming croquettes until you have approximately 30 pieces.
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Prepare the Stracchino Filling: In a bowl, soften the Stracchino cheese with a spoon until smooth. Transfer the cheese into a piping bag.
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Fill the Croquettes: Gently squeeze a little bit of Stracchino cheese into the center of each rice indentation, ensuring the cheese is securely enclosed within the rice.
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Coat and Fry the Croquettes: Prepare a bowl with beaten eggs and another with Panko breadcrumbs. First, dip each croquette into the egg wash, ensuring it is fully coated. Then roll it in the Panko breadcrumbs for a crisp outer layer.
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Fry the Croquettes: Heat sunflower seed oil in a deep skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Fry the croquettes in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each croquette until golden brown and crisp, about 3โ4 minutes per side.
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Drain and Serve: Once fried, remove the croquettes from the oil and drain them on paper towels. Sprinkle lightly with fine salt for extra flavor.
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Enjoy: Your Golden Rice Croquettes with Stracchino are now ready to be served! These delightful bites make the perfect appetizer, combining creamy cheese with the rich flavor of saffron-infused rice. Enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Each croquette is packed with rich flavors and a balance of carbs, fat, and protein, making it a delicious treat for any occasion.
(For nutritional details, please consult the site’s nutritional calculator or consult a dietician.)
These croquettes are a savory and indulgent choice for any appetizer spread, impressing guests with their golden crisp exterior and luxurious, cheesy center. They are sure to be a hit, whether served at a family gathering, a casual dinner party, or as part of a festive buffet.
