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Supplì al Telefono

Roman · Appetizer

A classic Roman street food: crispy, deep-fried rice croquettes with a savory meat sauce and a molten mozzarella center that creates a 'telephone wire' of cheese when pulled apart.

Intermediate
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Supplì al Telefono — recipe cover
1 hrA little patience, a lot of flavor
Prep time20 min
Cook time40 min
Servings4 people
DifficultyIntermediate
Let's make something good

How to make it

5 steps. Take it one step at a time.

  1. Bring the meat sauce and broth

    In a large saucepan, bring the meat sauce and broth to a simmer. Add the Arborio rice and cook, stirring frequently, until the rice is tender and the liquid has been fully absorbed (about 18–20 minutes), similar to a thick risotto.

    20 min
  2. Remove the rice from heat

    Remove the rice from heat and stir in the butter and grated Pecorino Romano. Spread the mixture onto a large baking sheet or tray to cool. It must be completely cold before shaping.

  3. Take a handful of the cooled rice and form it

    Take a handful of the cooled rice and form it into an oval shape (like a small egg). Use your thumb to make a hole in the center and insert a piece of mozzarella. Close the hole with a little more rice, ensuring the cheese is fully enclosed.

  4. Roll each rice ball first

    Roll each rice ball first in the beaten eggs and then in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.

  5. Heat the vegetable oil

    Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pot to 180°C (356°F). Fry the supplì in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3–5 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.

    5 min

A little kitchen wisdom

The name 'al telefono' comes from the string of melted mozzarella that connects the two halves when you break it open, resembling old-fashioned telephone wires. Use high-quality Arborio or Carnaroli rice for the best texture.

What you'll need

Large saucepanBaking sheetDeep fryer or heavy potSlotted spoonThermometer
Keep the good going

For now. And for later.

Make it ahead

The rice mixture can be made 24 hours in advance and stored in the fridge.

Store & enjoy

Best served immediately. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated in an air fryer or oven to regain crispiness. Reheat at 180°C (356°F) for 10 minutes.

Allergens

Contains wheat, gluten, milk, eggs.

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An AI-created recipe from the EZdish collection. Ingredient quantities and techniques have not been independently kitchen-tested. Published on this website . Updated . First published in the EZdish collection .

Supplì al Telefono
Step 1 of 5

Bring the meat sauce and broth

In a large saucepan, bring the meat sauce and broth to a simmer. Add the Arborio rice and cook, stirring frequently, until the rice is tender and the liquid has been fully absorbed (about 18–20 minutes), similar to a thick risotto.

20 min