Supplì al telefono are crispy Roman rice balls filled with gooey melted cheese, creating a delicious contrast between a crunchy exterior and a creamy interior. This traditional Italian street food is beloved for its rich flavor and satisfying texture, making it a perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Roman rice balls are a crowd-pleaser with their irresistible combination of crispy coating and soft, cheesy center. They are simple to prepare with basic ingredients and can be made ahead of time, making them ideal for gatherings or casual meals. The signature “telefono” effect—when melted cheese stretches as you pull the ball apart—adds a fun and authentic touch. Whether you enjoy them as a snack or serve them as part of a larger meal, they deliver comfort and flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 cups Arborio rice
4 cups chicken broth or water
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 cup crushed tomatoes
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
1 cup mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil for frying
Directions
Start by heating olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and cook for a few minutes to develop flavor. Add the Arborio rice and stir to coat it with the tomato mixture.
Pour in the broth or water, add salt and pepper, and bring everything to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid. The texture should be slightly sticky, which helps the rice balls hold their shape.
Remove the rice from heat and spread it on a tray to cool completely. Once cooled, mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and one egg, ensuring the mixture is well combined.
To form the supplì, take a small portion of the rice mixture in your hand, flatten it slightly, and place a cube of mozzarella in the center. Shape the rice around the cheese, forming an oval or round ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
Prepare three bowls: one with flour, one with the remaining beaten egg, and one with breadcrumbs. Roll each rice ball first in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to about 175°C. Fry the rice balls in batches until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm to enjoy the melted cheese center.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields about 10 to 12 rice balls, depending on size. Preparation takes approximately 25 minutes, while cooking and frying require around 35 minutes. The total time needed is about 1 hour.
Variations
You can customize supplì by adding cooked minced beef or chicken to the rice mixture for a heartier filling. For a vegetarian version, mix in sautéed mushrooms or finely chopped vegetables. Swap mozzarella with other melting cheeses like provolone for a different flavor profile. Some variations include adding herbs such as basil or parsley to enhance freshness.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover supplì in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 180°C for about 10–15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy. You can also freeze uncooked breaded rice balls for up to one month and fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
FAQs
What does “al telefono” mean?
It refers to the stretchy melted cheese inside that forms a string when the rice ball is pulled apart.
Can I use regular rice instead of Arborio?
Arborio is recommended because its starchiness helps bind the mixture, but short-grain rice can work as a substitute.
Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes, you can bake them at 200°C until golden, though they won’t be as crispy as fried versions.
How do I keep the rice balls from falling apart?
Make sure the rice mixture is cool and sticky, and press firmly when shaping.
Can I prepare them in advance?
Yes, you can shape and bread them ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to fry.
What oil is best for frying?
Use a neutral oil like vegetable or sunflower oil for best results.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, substitute flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
Why is my cheese not melting properly?
Ensure you use a good melting cheese like mozzarella and fry at the correct temperature.
Can I air fry them?
Yes, air fry at 190°C for about 10–12 minutes, turning halfway through.
Are they served with sauce?
They are often enjoyed on their own but can be served with a simple tomato sauce if desired.
Conclusion
Supplì al telefono are a delightful example of Italian comfort food, combining simple ingredients into something truly special. With their crispy coating and molten cheese center, they offer both texture and flavor in every bite. Easy to adapt and perfect for sharing, these rice balls are a timeless recipe worth adding to your kitchen repertoire.
