Description
These Nettle & Wild Onion Rice Balls are a delightful appetizer or snack featuring the earthy flavors of foraged nettles and wild onions. Combined with Parmesan cheese and a crispy breadcrumb coating, they offer a crunchy exterior and a tender, flavorful interior. Perfect for showcasing seasonal wild ingredients in a simple yet tasty way.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice Ball Mixture
- 1 cup cooked rice (preferably short-grain or sushi rice)
- 1/2 cup fresh nettles, washed and chopped
- 1/4 cup wild onions or green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Cooking
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for coating)
Instructions
- Sauté Nettles and Onions: In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped nettles and wild onions and sauté until they become tender, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, sautéed nettles and wild onions, grated Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. Add the beaten egg and stir until all the ingredients are well combined. Season the mixture with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- Shape the Rice Balls: Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls roughly the size of a golf ball. If you prefer a crunchy exterior, roll each ball in breadcrumbs to coat evenly.
- Cook the Rice Balls: Heat a small amount of olive oil in the skillet over medium heat. Cook the rice balls in batches, turning occasionally, until they develop a golden brown and crispy crust on the outside. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Serve: Serve the rice balls hot as an appetizer, snack, or side dish. Enjoy the unique, earthy taste brought by wild-foraged nettles and onions combined with the creamy Parmesan flavor.
Notes
- Use gloves when handling fresh nettles to avoid stings.
- If fresh nettles are unavailable, spinach can be used as a substitute, though it will alter the flavor.
- The breadcrumbs coating is optional but recommended for a crunchier texture.
- Leftover rice balls can be refrigerated and reheated in a skillet or oven for best texture.
- Ensure the rice used is sticky enough (short-grain or sushi rice) to help the balls hold their shape.
