Ham and Cheese Arancini (Italian Fried Rice Balls)
"Yummy, comforting deep-fried rice balls filled with ham and onion, stuffed with melty, gooey cheese! I came up with these tasty little morsels after having something similar at a tapas restaurant in my hometown. Sadly, that restaurant closed its doors, so I was forced to recreate my favorite dish. *I have made these with havarti and swiss cheeses instead of the cheddar: all are equally good!* NOTE: After reading the review, please note: You definitely want to use rice that is somewhat sticky. Do not use leftover fluffy rice that has had the starch rinsed off as they will not hold together well...."
INGREDIENTS
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3 eggs
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2 1/2 cups cooked rice
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1/4-1/2 cup ham, finely diced
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1/3 cup butter, melted, plus
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1 tablespoon butter (for sauteing onions)
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2/3 cup parmesan cheese, grated or 2/3 cup romano cheese
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1/4 cup onion, minced
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1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped or 1 -2 teaspoon dried parsley
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1 teaspoon seasoning salt
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1/2-1 teaspoon garlic salt
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1 teaspoon ground black pepper
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3 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese (cut into small cubes)
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oil, for deep-frying
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2 eggs, beaten
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1 cup flour, for coating
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1 cup dry breadcrumbs or 1 cup panko
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