Description
Crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside, arancini are a Sicilian delight that combines creamy risotto with flavorful fillings. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or party treat!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups Arborio rice
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp saffron (optional)
- 1/2 cup finely diced onion
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup mozzarella (cubed)
- 1/2 cup ragù (meat sauce) or cooked peas (optional for filling)
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Cook the Risotto Base: Heat olive oil and butter in a large pan. Sauté diced onion until translucent. Add Arborio rice, stirring to coat the grains. Pour in white wine, stirring until absorbed. Gradually add warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently, until the rice is creamy and tender (about 18-20 minutes). Mix in Parmesan cheese and saffron (if using). Allow risotto to cool completely.
- Shape the Arancini: Take a handful of cooled risotto, flatten it in your palm, and add a cube of mozzarella and a teaspoon of ragù or peas in the center. Carefully form the rice into a ball, enclosing the filling entirely. Repeat until all rice is used.
- Bread the Rice Balls: Set up a breading station with three bowls: flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Roll each rice ball in flour, dip in egg, then coat in breadcrumbs.
- Fry the Arancini: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the rice balls in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Enjoy warm, served with marinara sauce, pesto, or a light salad on the side.
Notes
- Cool the Risotto Completely: Ensure the risotto is fully cooled before shaping the arancini. Warm risotto will be too sticky and difficult to handle.
- Seal the Filling Well: When forming the rice balls, make sure the filling is completely enclosed to prevent it from leaking out during frying.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the frying oil at a steady 350°F (175°C) for even cooking and a perfectly crispy exterior without absorbing excess oil.
- Prep Time: 20 min
- Cook Time: 40 min
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: American