Crispy Chipotle Rice Balls

Crispy Chipotle Rice Balls are a delightful fusion of spicy chipotle-infused rice, creamy cheese, and crunchy coating, served with a smooth avocado dipping sauce. These savory bites are perfect for parties, appetizers, or as a unique side dish that promises to impress with every crispy bite.

Recipe: Crispy Chipotle Rice Balls

Ingredients for 30 servings:

For the Rice Balls:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup arborio rice
• ½ cup dry white wine
• 2 ½ cups low sodium chicken broth, boiling
• 1 tablespoon chipotle powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon coriander powder
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• ½ cup corn kernels
• 1 cup shredded cheese blend

For the Avocado Dipping Sauce:

• 2 avocados
• 170 g sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• ½ cup fresh cilantro
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper

For Coating:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup bread crumbs
• 3 eggs, lightly beaten
• Remaining spice mixture from rice balls

For Frying:

• Oil, for frying

For Serving:

• Fresh cilantro
• Queso fresco

Preparation:

1. Cook the Rice Mixture:
   • Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add onions and red bell peppers, cooking until translucent. Stir in garlic and rice, cooking until fragrant.
   • Pour in white wine, stirring frequently until absorbed.
   • Gradually add boiling chicken broth, ½ cup at a time, stirring frequently for about 20 minutes, until rice is al dente.
   • In a small bowl, combine chipotle powder, garlic powder, onion powder, coriander, paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add half to the rice mixture.
   • Remove from heat. Mix in corn kernels and shredded cheese. Cool to room temperature, then chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Avocado Dipping Sauce:
   • In a food processor, blend avocados, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), cilantro, lime juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.
3. Form and Coat the Rice Balls:
   • Place flour, beaten eggs, and bread crumbs each in separate bowls. Mix the remaining spice mixture into the bread crumbs.
   • Take a heaping spoonful of the chilled rice mixture, shaping it into golf ball-sized balls. Coat each ball in flour, then dip in beaten eggs, and finally roll in seasoned bread crumbs.
4. Fry the Rice Balls:
   • Heat oil in a skillet to 350°F (180°C). Fry the coated rice balls for about 2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
   • Transfer fried rice balls to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Serve:
   • Serve the Crispy Chipotle Rice Balls warm, accompanied by the avocado dipping sauce.
   • Garnish with fresh cilantro and crumbled queso fresco, if desired.

Conclusion:

Crispy Chipotle Rice Balls are a delicious blend of spicy flavors and creamy textures, encased in a crispy exterior. Perfectly paired with a smooth avocado dipping sauce, these savory bites are sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a special treat for yourself. Enjoy the crunchy goodness and bold flavors of these rice balls, making every bite a delightful experience!