Suppli al Telefono: Roman Rice Croquettes

Suppli al telefono are Roman rice croquettes filled with mozzarella and fried until crisp.

The name comes from the stringy mozzarella pull, but the rice matters just as much: it should be compact, seasoned and cool before shaping.

Cool Rice Shapes Better

Use tomato risotto-style rice and let it cool fully. Warm rice is harder to shape and can open in the oil.

The coating should be firm and even, because the mozzarella needs time to melt before the outside gets too dark.

Ingredients for Suppli

300 g risotto rice
500 g tomato passata
Broth
Mozzarella – cut into strips and drained
Parmesan
Eggs
Breadcrumbs
Oil for frying
Salt and pepper

Shape, Bread and Fry

Cook rice.
Cook rice with tomato and broth until thick and tender.
Cool.
Stir in Parmesan and let the rice cool completely.
Fill.
Shape around a piece of mozzarella, sealing well.
Bread and fry.
Coat in egg and breadcrumbs, then fry until deep golden.

Stop Suppli from Splitting

Drain mozzarella.
Excess moisture weakens the centre.
Seal firmly.
No cheese should be exposed.
Fry hot enough.
Oil that is too cool makes them greasy.

Serving Suppli

Serve hot, while the mozzarella still stretches.

More Lazio Recipes

Continue with Penne all’Arrabbiata, Spaghetti Carbonara.