Pea and mint risotto balls

Pea and mint risotto balls are a delicious appetizer featuring a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior. Made with white rice, chicken gravy, peas, and fresh spearmint, these bites are enhanced by pecans and parmesan cheese, served with a zesty mint dressing.

16 Jan 2026
Cook time 45 min
Prep time 45 min

Ingredients:

1.50 cups white rice
2 cups chicken gravy
1 cup peas
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
2 cups spearmint
3 eggs
1.25 cups all-purpose white wheat flour
2 cups bread crumbs
1/2 cup pecans
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 garlic cloves
1/2 cup olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp lemon zest

Pea and mint risotto balls are a delightful twist on the traditional Italian dish, featuring a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior. This recipe makes use of simple ingredients like white rice, chicken gravy, peas, mozzarella cheese, and fresh spearmint to create a delicious and satisfying appetizer or snack. The addition of pecans and parmesan cheese adds a unique depth to the flavor profile, making these risotto balls a hit at any gathering.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Rice:
- Cook the white rice as per the package instructions. Once cooked, set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, chicken gravy, peas, shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1 cup of spearmint leaves finely chopped. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

3. Form the Balls:
- Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls, approximately the size of a golf ball. Place the formed balls on a tray.

4. Prepare the Coating:
- In three separate bowls, place the all-purpose flour, 2 beaten eggs, and a mixture of bread crumbs, finely chopped pecans, and grated Parmesan cheese.

5. Coat the Balls:
- Roll each risotto ball in the flour, then dip it into the egg wash, and finally coat it with the bread crumb mixture. Ensure each ball is evenly coated.

6. Fry the Balls:
- In a large frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Carefully place the risotto balls into the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides. This should take about 3-4 minutes per batch.
- Remove the balls from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.

7. Prepare the Mint Dressing:
- In a small bowl, combine the remaining spearmint leaves, finely chopped, with the lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic cloves, and a drizzle of olive oil. Mix well.

8. Serve:
- Serve the crispy risotto balls warm, drizzled with the mint dressing. Enjoy them as an appetizer or a delightful snack!

By following this recipe, you can quickly and easily create a batch of pea and mint risotto balls that are sure to impress your friends and family. The combination of crunchy breadcrumbs and the refreshing taste of mint makes these risotto balls a delightful treat. Enjoy them fresh out of the fryer, dipped in your favorite sauce, or as part of a larger meal.

Pea and mint risotto balls FAQ:

How long should I cook the risotto balls for frying?

Fry the risotto balls for approximately 3-4 minutes per batch, or until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.

What can I use instead of chicken gravy?

You can substitute chicken gravy with vegetable broth or a homemade vegetable sauce for a vegetarian option. This will alter the flavor but still keep it enjoyable.

Can I store leftover risotto balls?

Yes, you can store leftover risotto balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them before frying, and fry directly from frozen when ready to serve.

What’s a good alternative for mozzarella cheese?

If you're looking for a substitute for mozzarella cheese, you can use cheddar or provolone. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture will vary slightly.

What pan size is best for frying the risotto balls?

A large skillet or frying pan that can accommodate multiple risotto balls at once is ideal. Ensure there is enough space to turn them for even frying.

Tips:

- Be sure to cook the rice ahead of time and allow it to cool slightly before using it in the recipe. This will help the mixture hold together better when forming the risotto balls.

- If you don't have chicken gravy, you can use chicken broth mixed with a bit of flour or cornstarch as a substitute.

- Make sure to finely chop the spearmint and garlic to ensure even distribution and a balanced flavor in each bite.

- For a nuttier flavor and added crunch, lightly toast the pecans before incorporating them into the mixture.

- When forming the risotto balls, wet your hands slightly to prevent the mixture from sticking to your fingers.

- To achieve an even golden brown crust, gently rotate the risotto balls while frying to ensure they cook evenly on all sides.

- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or herbs to personalize the flavor to your liking.

Nutrition per serving

24 Servings
Calories 150kcal
Protein 5g
Carbohydrates 22g
Fiber 1.18g
Sugar 0.92g
Fat 9g

Pea and mint risotto balls