How to Make Authentic Roman Supplì with Rice and Mozzarella

Discover the art of making authentic Roman supplì, a beloved Italian street food. These crispy rice croquettes are filled with a savory tomato risotto and melted mozzarella, creating an irresistible combination of flavors and textures that will transport you straight to the streets of Rome.

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Recipe Details

Prep Time

30 minutes

Cook Time

25 minutes

Servings

8

Difficulty

Intermediate

Simple Summary

Supplì are delicious Italian rice croquettes filled with gooey mozzarella, offering a perfect blend of crispy exterior and creamy interior.

Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Servings: 8
  • Difficulty: Intermediate

Ingredients

  • 2 cups Arborio rice
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 8 oz mozzarella, cut into small cubes
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a simmer.

  2. Add the Arborio rice and cook, stirring frequently, until the rice absorbs the broth and becomes tender, about 18-20 minutes.

  3. Stir in the tomato sauce and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes.

  4. Mix in one beaten egg to the cooled rice mixture.

  5. Take a handful of the rice mixture and form it into an oval shape. Make an indentation in the center and place a cube of mozzarella inside. Close the rice around the cheese, forming a sealed oval shape. Repeat with the remaining rice.

  6. Set up a breading station: Place flour in one bowl, the remaining beaten egg in another, and breadcrumbs in a third.

  7. Dip each supplì first in flour, then egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.

  8. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).

  9. Fry the supplì in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

  10. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve hot.

Chef's Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
  • You can prepare the rice mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it to save time.
  • If you prefer baking, arrange the breaded supplì on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
  • Leftover supplì can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Nutritional Info

Per serving (1 supplì): Approximately 320 calories, 15g protein, 40g carbohydrates, 12g fat. Supplì are a good source of calcium from the mozzarella and provide energy from the rice.

Serving Suggestions

Serve supplì as an appetizer or snack with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. They pair well with a crisp Italian white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light red like Chianti. For a complete meal, serve alongside a fresh arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for an authentic Italian presentation.