Vegan Sicilian Rice Balls With Mushrooms And Peas

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I’m pretty inspired lately by the Meditteranean kitchen and since you seem to like these recipes, I figured we’d keep it going for a bit. Today I have something special for you: vegan Sicilian rice balls. They’re crispy on the outside, and warm and savory on the inside.

Imagine biting into a crunchy rice ball and finding a delicious mix of mushrooms and peas. It’s perfect for a snack, appetizer, or even a main dish. You’ll love how simple it is to bring this Italian classic into your kitchen. Ready to impress your family and friends with something new? Let’s get started!

What You Need

To make vegan Sicilian rice balls With mushrooms and peas, you’ll need a few ingredients.

First, you need some arborio rice. This type of rice works best because it’s sticky and holds together well.

You’ll also need breadcrumbs. Opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs if you prefer a gluten-free version.

Mushrooms and peas are essential, adding texture and flavor. Fresh or frozen peas work fine. For mushrooms, you can use any type you like, such as button or cremini.

You’ll need a small onion and a few cloves of garlic. These add depth of flavor.

Olive oil is important for cooking everything together. It’s a healthy fat that gives a nice richness to the dish.

Vegetable broth keeps the rice moist and adds extra flavor.

Nutritional yeast is optional, but it adds a cheesy taste without using dairy.

Lastly, gather salt, pepper, and any herbs or spices you like. Basil, parsley, and black pepper are popular choices.

These are all the ingredients you need to make your vegan rice balls. Make sure you have everything before you start cooking.

Tool Requirements

You’ll need a few basic tools for making vegan Sicilian rice balls with mushrooms and peas.

First, a large mixing bowl is essential for combining your ingredients. Make sure it’s big enough to mix without spilling.

A medium pot is needed to cook the rice. Get one with a lid to help steam the rice properly.

You’ll also need a large skillet or frying pan for sautéing the mushrooms and peas.

A baking sheet will be used to bake the rice balls. Line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

To form the rice balls, have a small bowl of water nearby. Wetting your hands makes shaping the rice balls easier.

You’ll need a sharp knife and a cutting board for chopping vegetables.

A spatula or wooden spoon will help you stir the ingredients.

If you have a food processor, it can save time in finely chopping the mushrooms.

Having a set of measuring cups and spoons is important for accurate measurements.

For breadcrumbs, a shallow bowl is useful for coating the rice balls before baking.

Lastly, a cooling rack can help the rice balls stay crisp after baking.

These tools will make your cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Preparing the Ingredients

First, get your ingredients ready. You’ll need arborio rice, which is key for the right texture.

Cook the rice according to the package instructions. Once it’s done, spread it out on a tray to cool.

Next, finely chop the onions and garlic. Sauté them in olive oil until they’re soft and fragrant.

Slice the mushrooms and add them to the pan. Cook until they’re tender and have released their juices.

For the peas, you can use fresh or frozen. If they’re frozen, just thaw them out beforehand.

Now, mix the cooled rice, sautéed mushrooms, and peas in a large bowl. Add salt, pepper, and some chopped fresh parsley.

In a separate bowl, combine flaxseed meal with water to make a vegan binder. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.

Grate some vegan cheese and have it ready. You can add this to your rice mixture for extra flavor.

Your ingredients are now prepped and ready to go.

Serving Suggestions

Vegan Sicilian rice balls with mushrooms and peas are great on their own or paired with other dishes.

• You can serve them with marinara sauce for dipping. The tangy tomato flavor complements the creamy rice and savory mushrooms.
• A fresh side salad provides a nice contrast. Try a simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
• Another option is to serve them over a bed of steamed vegetables. Broccoli, carrots, and zucchini work well, adding color and nutrition to the meal.
• For a heartier meal, consider adding some crusty bread. This brings a satisfying crunch and can help soak up any extra sauce.
• You can also make smaller rice balls and serve them as appetizers at a party. They are easy to eat and a hit with guests.
• Enjoy your meal with a refreshing drink. Lemon water or iced tea pairs nicely with the flavors of the rice balls.

Feel free to get creative with your sides and dips. The simple flavors of the rice balls make them versatile enough to go with many dishes.

Storage and Reheating Tips

After cooking, let the rice balls cool completely. Refrigerate them in an airtight container. They will stay good for up to 4 days.

If you want to freeze them, use a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to a month.

When reheating, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rice balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Heat for about 15-20 minutes.

For a quicker option, use a microwave. Place the rice balls on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes.

For a crispy texture, try reheating in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket.

If you are reheating from frozen, thaw them overnight in the fridge. Then, follow the same steps as above for best results.