Name: Deep-Fried Chocolate Mochi Balls Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: ¾ cup sweet rice flour; ½ tbsp cornstarch; ½ cup water; Chocolate Chips; oil

These deep-fried chocolate mochi balls are a delightful fusion of chewy mochi and rich chocolate. Perfect for dessert or a sweet snack, they bring an irresistible combination of textures and flavors to your table.

Photos of Deep-Fried Chocolate Mochi Balls Recipe

Sweet rice flour, also known as glutinous rice flour, is essential for achieving the chewy texture unique to mochi. Unlike regular rice flour, it provides the necessary stickiness. You may need to visit an Asian supermarket or specialty store to find it.

Ingredients for deep-fried chocolate mochi balls

Sweet rice flour: This special flour is made from glutinous rice and gives mochi its distinctive chewy texture.

Cornstarch: Used to help bind the ingredients and give a light, crispy texture to the fried mochi balls.

Water: Essential for forming the dough when combined with the sweet rice flour and cornstarch.

Chocolate chips: These provide a gooey, melty center when the mochi balls are fried.

Oil: Used for deep frying, ensuring the mochi balls become crispy and golden on the outside.

One reader, Barbe Langford says:

These deep-fried chocolate mochi balls are a delightful treat! The crispy exterior perfectly complements the gooey, chocolatey center. Easy to make and absolutely delicious, they were a hit at my party. Highly recommend!

Barbe Langford

Techniques Required

How to knead dough: Kneading involves pressing and folding the dough repeatedly to develop its texture and elasticity. How to deep fry: Deep frying requires heating oil to a specific temperature and submerging the food until it is cooked through and crispy.

How To Make Deep-Fried Chocolate Mochi Balls

These chewy chocolate mochi balls are a delight especially with the rich sweet and earthy taste from the rice flour and crispy texture from deep-frying.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 1 hour

Serves:

Ingredients

¾cupsweet rice flour
½tbspcornstarch
½cupwater
chocolate chips,to taste
oil,for frying

Instructions

Combine the sweet rice flour, cornstarch, and water in a mixing bowl.
Turn out on table and knead to form a ball of dough.
Grab a ping pong size of dough, create a well and fill with chocolate chips.
Wrap the dough around the chocolate chips and form it into a ball. Make sure to seal well and push out any air pockets to prevent them from popping and bursting while frying.
Deep fry until the outside is crispy and the mochi balls start floating.
Serve and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 119.48kcal
Fat: 1.24g
Saturated Fat: 0.17g
Trans Fat: 0.00g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.65g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.34g
Carbohydrates: 24.65g
Fiber: 0.72g
Sugar: 0.04g
Protein: 1.77g
Sodium: 1.27mg
Calcium: 3.87mg
Potassium: 22.54mg
Iron: 0.11mg

Technique Tip for This Recipe

When kneading the dough, ensure it is smooth and elastic to avoid any cracks that might cause the chocolate chips to leak out during frying.

How to Save Time on This Recipe

Prepare the dough in advance: Mix the sweet rice flour, cornstarch, and water ahead of time and store in the fridge.

Use a cookie scoop: This helps to portion out the dough evenly and quickly.

Pre-measure chocolate chips: Have your chocolate chips ready in small bowls to speed up the filling process.

Heat oil while shaping: Start heating the oil as you form the mochi balls to save time.

Fry in batches: Fry multiple mochi balls at once to reduce overall cooking time.

Substitute Ingredients For Deep-Fried Chocolate Mochi Balls Recipe

sweet rice flour - Substitute with glutinous rice flour: Both flours have similar sticky properties, making them ideal for mochi.
cornstarch - Substitute with potato starch: Potato starch has a similar thickening ability and texture.
water - Substitute with milk: Milk can add a richer flavor and slightly creamier texture to the mochi dough.
chocolate chips - Substitute with chocolate chunks: Chocolate chunks can provide a similar melt and flavor profile.
oil - Substitute with vegetable oil: Vegetable oil has a high smoke point and neutral flavor, making it suitable for deep frying.

Best Way to Present Your Mochi Balls

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the deep-fried chocolate mochi balls in bite-sized portions to ensure a refined and elegant experience.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with a dusting of powdered sugar and a few edible gold flakes to add a touch of luxury and sophistication.
Add a dipping sauce: Accompany the mochi balls with a small bowl of dark chocolate ganache or raspberry coulis for an added layer of flavor and texture.
Plate on a minimalist dish: Use a sleek, white plate to make the mochi balls the focal point, allowing their golden, crispy exterior to stand out.
Incorporate fresh elements: Add a few fresh mint leaves or a couple of raspberries on the side to introduce a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate.
Create height: Stack the mochi balls in a pyramid shape to add visual interest and dimension to the presentation.
Use a sauce drizzle: Artistically drizzle some caramel sauce or matcha syrup around the plate to enhance the visual appeal and provide additional flavor notes.
Add texture contrast: Sprinkle some crushed nuts or toasted coconut flakes around the mochi balls to introduce a crunchy element that complements the chewy texture.
Incorporate a theme: If presenting in a themed setting, use elements like bamboo leaves or Japanese ceramics to tie the dish into the overall dining experience.
Highlight the filling: Cut one mochi ball in half to showcase the melting chocolate center, giving diners a preview of the indulgent treat inside.

Best Tools for This Recipe

Mixing bowl: Use this to combine the sweet rice flour, cornstarch, and water into a smooth dough.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the sweet rice flour, cornstarch, and water.
Wooden spoon: Handy for mixing the ingredients together before kneading.
Clean surface: A clean table or countertop is necessary for kneading the dough.
Knife: Useful for cutting the dough into ping pong-sized portions.
Deep fryer: Ideal for deep frying the mochi balls until they are crispy and floating.
Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing the mochi balls from the hot oil without excess oil.
Paper towels: Use these to drain the excess oil from the fried mochi balls.
Serving plate: For presenting the finished deep-fried chocolate mochi balls.

How To Store / Freeze Your Mochi Balls

Allow the mochi balls to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.
Place the mochi balls in an airtight container. If stacking them, separate each layer with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain their crispiness.
For longer storage, freeze the mochi balls. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together.
Once frozen, transfer the mochi balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and store for up to 2 months.
To reheat from frozen, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the mochi balls on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Avoid microwaving, as this can make the mochi balls chewy and less enjoyable.

How To Reheat Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the deep-fried chocolate mochi balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10 minutes or until they are heated through and the exterior is crispy again.
If you prefer using a microwave, place the mochi balls on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out. Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Check and repeat if necessary, but be cautious not to overheat as this can make them too chewy.
For a quick stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil to the pan. Place the mochi balls in the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and crispy.
If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the mochi balls in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for about 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.
For those who enjoy a bit of a twist, you can steam the mochi balls. Place them in a steamer basket over boiling water for about 5 minutes. This method will make the exterior soft and chewy while keeping the chocolate chips inside melty and delicious.

Random Fact About This Recipe

A fun fact about this recipe is that mochi is a traditional Japanese rice cake made from glutinous rice flour. Deep-frying mochi balls adds a crispy texture to the chewy interior, creating a delightful contrast.

Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

This deep-fried chocolate mochi balls recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients—sweet rice flour, cornstarch, water, and chocolate chips—are relatively inexpensive. A small amount of oil is needed for frying. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $5-$7 USD. Given the simplicity and affordability, I would rate this recipe an 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness.

Healthy or Unhealthy?

This recipe for deep-fried chocolate mochi balls is undeniably delicious but leans towards the unhealthy side. The deep-frying process introduces a significant amount of oil, contributing to high calorie and fat content. Additionally, the use of chocolate chips adds sugar and further calories, making it a decadent treat rather than a nutritious snack.

High in Calories and Fat: Deep frying increases the caloric density of the mochi balls.
High in Sugar: Chocolate chips add a considerable amount of sugar.
Low in Nutrients: The recipe lacks essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following adjustments:

Bake Instead of Fry: Baking the mochi balls can significantly reduce the fat content.
Use Dark Chocolate: Opt for dark chocolate chips with a higher cocoa content and less sugar.
Incorporate Whole Grains: Substitute part of the sweet rice flour with whole grain flour to increase fiber.
Add Fruit: Include small pieces of fruit like strawberries or bananas inside the mochi for added vitamins and natural sweetness.
Reduce Portion Size: Make smaller mochi balls to control portion sizes and calorie intake.

Editor's Thoughts on This Recipe

This recipe for deep-fried chocolate mochi balls is a delightful fusion of textures and flavors. The sweet rice flour creates a chewy, satisfying dough that contrasts beautifully with the crispy fried exterior. The hidden chocolate chips add a rich, melty surprise in every bite. However, ensure the dough is well-sealed to avoid any mishaps during frying. A touch of vanilla extract or a pinch of salt in the dough could elevate the flavor profile even further. Overall, it's a fun and indulgent treat that's sure to impress.

Enhance Your Deep-Fried Chocolate Mochi Balls Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mango Coconut Sticky Rice: Mango Coconut Sticky Rice: Imagine the tropical sweetness of mango paired with the creamy richness of coconut milk, all nestled in a bed of sticky rice. This delightful side-dish will transport you to a sunny beach with every bite, perfectly complementing the deep-fried chocolate mochi balls.

Matcha Green Tea Ice Cream: Matcha Green Tea Ice Cream: The earthy, slightly bitter notes of matcha green tea ice cream provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet, gooey center of the mochi balls. The cool, creamy texture will cleanse your palate and enhance the overall dessert experience.

Lychee Rose Panna Cotta: Lychee Rose Panna Cotta: This elegant dessert combines the floral aroma of rose with the delicate sweetness of lychee. The silky smooth panna cotta will add a touch of sophistication and a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the crispy, chocolate-filled mochi balls.

Ginger Lemon Sorbet: Ginger Lemon Sorbet: A zesty and invigorating sorbet made with fresh ginger and lemon. This side-dish offers a refreshing and tangy counterpoint to the rich, deep-fried mochi balls, leaving your taste buds tingling with delight.

Black Sesame Soup: Black Sesame Soup: A warm, velvety soup made from nutty black sesame seeds. This traditional Asian dessert adds a comforting and slightly savory element to your meal, creating a harmonious balance with the sweet and crispy mochi balls.

Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This

Mochi Ice Cream: Imagine the delightful combination of ice cream wrapped in a chewy mochi shell. This treat is perfect for a hot day and can be customized with your favorite flavors.

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a rich, gooey chocolate center encased in a soft, spongy cake. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible dessert experience.

Tempura Ice Cream: Experience the contrast of hot and cold with tempura-battered ice cream. The crispy exterior and creamy interior make for a sensational dessert.

Matcha Mochi: Enjoy the earthy flavors of matcha in a chewy mochi form. These little green delights are perfect for a tea-time treat or a unique dessert.

Fruit Mochi: Combine the sweetness of fresh fruits with the chewy texture of mochi. Fill the mochi with a variety of fruits like strawberries, mango, or kiwi for a refreshing and colorful dessert.

Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushroom Caps: Elevate your appetizer game with Stuffed Mushroom Caps. These delightful bites feature mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. Perfect for any gathering, these mushroom caps are sure to impress your guests with their elegant presentation and delicious flavor.

Mini Caprese Skewers: Bring a touch of Italy to your table with Mini Caprese Skewers. These vibrant skewers are a delightful combination of cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves, all drizzled with a balsamic glaze. The freshness of the ingredients and the simplicity of the preparation make these skewers a perfect appetizer for any occasion. The burst of flavors from the tomatoes, cheese, and basil, along with the tangy sweetness of the balsamic glaze, will leave your guests craving more.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the zesty flavors of lemon and aromatic herbs. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of fresh lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and a blend of herbs such as thyme, rosemary, and parsley. This marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with a burst of refreshing flavors. Once marinated, the chicken is grilled to perfection, achieving a beautiful char and a juicy interior. Serve it with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal that is both healthy and satisfying.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers are a colorful and nutritious main course that is sure to impress. The bell peppers are hollowed out and filled with a savory mixture of ground meat (such as beef or turkey), rice, tomatoes, and a medley of spices. The filling is cooked until the flavors meld together, creating a hearty and flavorful stuffing. The stuffed peppers are then baked until the peppers are tender and the filling is perfectly cooked. Top with a sprinkle of cheese and fresh herbs before serving. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great choice for both family dinners and entertaining guests.

Why trust this Deep-Fried Chocolate Mochi Balls Recipe:

This recipe combines the chewy texture of mochi with the rich flavor of chocolate chips, creating a delightful treat. The use of sweet rice flour ensures an authentic mochi experience, while the deep-frying process adds a satisfying crunch. By following these simple steps, you can achieve a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Trust this recipe for its straightforward instructions and the delicious result that will impress your friends and family.

Want to share your experience making these delightful deep-fried chocolate mochi balls or have any tips to perfect the recipe? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum section and let's talk about this delectable treat!

FAQ:

Can I use regular rice flour instead of sweet rice flour?

No, sweet rice flour is essential for the chewy texture of mochi. Regular rice flour won't give you the same result.

How do I know when the mochi balls are done frying?

The mochi balls are done when they are crispy on the outside and start floating in the oil. This usually takes a few minutes.

Can I use other fillings besides chocolate chips?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different fillings like Nutella, peanut butter, or even fruit preserves.

What type of oil is best for deep frying the mochi balls?

I recommend using a neutral oil with a high smoke point, like vegetable oil or canola oil, for deep frying.

How do I store leftover mochi balls?

It's best to eat them fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day. Reheat them in the oven to regain some of the crispiness.