Sicilian Rice Balls Recipe

In large bowl, combine rice, Parmesan cheese and butter; toss lightly with fork to mix well. Add 2 eggs, 1/2 teaspoon salt and dash of pepper; toss to mix well. Refrigerate until well chilled.

Make Meat Filling: In 3 tablespoons hot oil in a large saucepan, saute beef, garlic and onion until onion becomes transparent. Add tomato paste, frozen peas and 1 cup water; cook slowly, covered, 10 to 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Add 1/2 teaspoon salt and dash of pepper.

Shape chilled rice into patties, in the palm of hand, using 1/3 cup rice for each patty. Place 1 heaping tablespoon of filling on each patty, and roll rice around filling, making a ball. Dip rice balls in beaten egg; then roll in seasoned bread crumbs. Fry in skillet until lightly browned on all sides.