Ingredients
- 5 cups vegetable stock
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan, plus 1/2 cup for garnish
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 5 cups panko bread crumbs
- 4 cups vegetable oil
Directions
For the risotto: Heat the vegetable stock in a pot next to the risotto pot. Keep a ladle in it to use.
Saute the onion in the olive oil until wilted, add in the garlic and cook for another minute or so. Add in the Arborio rice and saute for a few minutes. Add in just enough stock to cover the rice and stir frequently.
As the rice absorbs the stock add the remainder of the stock and let the risotto cook through. (16 to 20 minutes). If it is not tender add some hot water until the risotto is tender.
When cooked through add in the lemon juice, lemon peel, Parmesan, mozzarella and half-and-half. Mix thoroughly. Let it cool for 1 hour or so.
To fry the balls: Heat the oil to 375 degrees F in a large pot. Place the panko bread crumbs in a shallow dish. Using a small spoon or small ice cream scooper form the risotto into 1-inch balls and roll them in the bread crumbs. Set aside until complete.
Place a few balls in the hot oil at a time. Cook the balls for 2 to 3 minutes. Drain them on paper towels. Sprinkle with Parmesan and serve.
* Restaurant Recipe
This recipe was provided by professional chefs and has been scaled down from a bulk recipe provided by a restaurant. Food Network Kitchens have not tested this recipe in the proportions indicated and therefore cannot make representation as to the results.


















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By slenisz
on December 25, 2010
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Delicious. Crunchy on outside with cheesy, lemony risotto goodness inside. Made these for Christmas eve appetizers & would definitely make again.
By crazypuppy73_74...
chantilly, VA
on March 11, 2007
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I made this meal as an appetizer in a cookoff against my dad. I ended up winning the cookoff, but later after I tried the risoto I hated it. After you fry it into the balls the recipe is great, but without the last step I'd give the recipe thumbs down.
By aphrael129
NJ
on February 18, 2007
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I made the risotto as a side dish with dinner. I did not make the balls. I added some white wine to the rice before adding the stock and ommitted the mozz. It was fantastic!!!! Will absolutely make again!
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