The name supplì comes from the word ‘surprise’ in Italian, which perfectly describes the thrill of biting into these crispy, golden fried balls to find the melted cheese waiting inside. While some people might compare supplì to arancini, another Italian rice ball that is usually filled with meat ragù or peas, the two are distinct dishes with their own unique flavor and texture.
To make a traditional Roman-style supplì, you’ll need a few ingredients: Arborio rice, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, onions, garlic, butter, and parmesan cheese. The first step is to cook the rice in a pot of salted water until it’s al dente, then let it cool. While the rice is cooking, you can prepare the tomato sauce by sautéing finely chopped onions and garlic in butter, then stirring in tomato puree and letting it simmer for about 20 minutes.
Once the rice and tomato sauce are ready, it’s time to assemble the supplì. Take a small handful of rice and flatten it out in your hand, then place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center and top it with a spoonful of tomato sauce. Roll the rice into a ball, making sure the cheese and sauce are fully enclosed, then dip it in beaten eggs and coat it in breadcrumbs.
Next, heat up a frying pan with vegetable oil until it’s hot, then add the supplì and cook them until they’re golden brown and crispy. Be sure to turn them over so all sides are evenly fried. Then remove them from the frying pan and let them cool on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil.
Finally, it’s time to enjoy the delicious treat. The best way to eat supplì is to bite into them while they’re still warm, so the mozzarella cheese oozes out and mixes with the tomato sauce and rice. Some people even refer to them as “telephone wires” because the cheese pulls out like a long string when you bite into them.
Supplì is often served as a street food in Rome, where you can find them in small kiosks or food trucks. They’re also a popular snack to serve at parties or as an appetizer in restaurants. While it may take some time to prepare, the end result is definitely worth it.
In conclusion, Roman-style supplì is a delectable Italian snack or appetizer that is sure to impress your taste buds. With its crispy exterior, gooey cheese, and savory tomato sauce, it’s no surprise that this dish has become a beloved part of Roman cuisine. Whether you’re visiting Rome or simply looking to add some Italian flair to your next meal, be sure to give supplì a try.