Bolinho de Arroz com Queijo: A Delicious Brazilian Treat
Have you ever tried Bolinho de Arroz com Queijo? This delightful dish is a popular Brazilian snack that combines the great flavors of rice and cheese into a crispy, golden treat. It’s not just tasty; it has a special place in Brazilian cuisine. Traditionally, it showcases how people make use of leftovers, turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary. This recipe is loved by many because it’s easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a party, a snack for school, or a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
Cooked rice | 2 cups |
Cheese (mozzarella or cheddar) | 1 cup, shredded |
Eggs | 2 |
All-purpose flour | ½ cup |
Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
Salt | ½ teaspoon |
Pepper | ½ teaspoon |
Oil (for frying) | Enough for deep frying |
If you don’t have mozzarella or cheddar, you can use any cheese you like. Feta or goat cheese also works great!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the mixture: In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, shredded cheese, eggs, flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. Make sure there are no clumps of rice.
- Heat the oil: In a deep pan, heat oil over medium heat. You’ll need about 2-3 inches of oil to fry the bolinhos. It’s ready when a small drop of batter sizzles in the oil.
- Shape the bolinhos: With your hands, take a small handful of the mixture and shape it into a ball or a small patty—about the size of a golf ball.
- Fry the bolinhos: Carefully place the shaped bolinhos in the hot oil. Fry them in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until they are golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Drain the oil: Once golden brown, remove the bolinhos with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve your Bolinho de Arroz com Queijo warm. They are perfect on their own or with a dipping sauce like ketchup or a spicy mayo.
Nutritional Information
Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
Calories | 150 | 8% |
Protein | 5g | 10% |
Carbohydrates | 18g | 6% |
Fats | 7g | 11% |
Calcium | 200mg | 20% |
Sodium | 100mg | 4% |
Tips and Tricks
- Customize your cheese: Experiment with different kinds of cheese to find your favorite flavor.
- Vegetable additions: You can add finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the mixture for a nutritious twist.
- Avoid burning: Keep an eye on the oil temperature; if it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks!
- Taste test: Before frying all the bolinhos, fry a small piece of the mixture to check for seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
FAQs
What can I serve with Bolinho de Arroz com Queijo?
You can serve them with ketchup, spicy mayo, or a homemade salsa for a tasty dip!
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! You can place them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
How long can I store leftover bolinhos?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Can I freeze Bolinho de Arroz com Queijo?
Absolutely! Freeze them before frying. When ready to eat, fry them directly from the freezer—just add a few minutes to the cooking time.
What type of rice works best?
Any type of cooked rice works, but medium-grain or short-grain rice gives the best texture for the bolinhos.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, as long as you use vegetarian cheese, this recipe is fully vegetarian!
Can I add herbs or spices to the mixture?
Definitely! Fresh herbs like parsley or chives, or spices like paprika or garlic powder can enhance the flavor.
What’s the best way to keep these warm while serving?
You can keep them warm in the oven set to low heat while you finish frying the rest.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice can be used; just ensure it’s fully cooked and tender before mixing it into the batter.
Are Bolinho de Arroz com Queijo gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour, this recipe can be made gluten-free!
Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Bolinho de Arroz com Queijo with your friends and family. It’s sure to become a favorite in your home!