Irresistible Italian Rice Balls Recipe
Written By James Morgan
Looking to indulge in the authentic flavors of Italy right at home? This Italian rice balls recipe, also known as arancini, is an essential addition to your culinary repertoire. Featuring creamy, cheesy risotto wrapped around a gooey mozzarella center and deep-fried until golden and crispy, these delectable morsels are perfect for any occasion. Follow our comprehensive guide to making the best arancini, complete with easy-to-follow steps, useful tips, and cookware recommendations.
What Are Arancini?
Arancini, also famously known as Italian rice balls, originate from Sicily. These delicious treats are typically made using leftover risotto, which is formed into a ball, stuffed with cheese or meat, coated in breadcrumbs, and fried. The name 'arancini' translates to 'little oranges' in Italian, inspired by their shape and golden-brown color. Although traditionally prepared with arborio rice and a savory filling, arancini can be adapted with various ingredients to suit different tastes.
Ingredients
- 2 cups arborio rice
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 cups breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Cooking Tools and Equipment
Before you start making arancini, ensure you have the necessary kitchen tools ready. Heres a quick list:
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Risotto
Begin by cooking the arborio rice in your rice cooker according to the manufacturers instructions, substituting water with chicken or vegetable broth for added flavor. Once the rice is perfectly cooked and slightly al dente, transfer it to a baking sheet and spread it out evenly to cool. Fluff the rice with a fork, and allow it to rest at room temperature, ensuring it doesnt clump together.
Step 2: Making the Rice Balls
Once the risotto has completely cooled, its time to form the rice balls. With damp hands, take a small handful of rice and shape it into a ball. Create a well in the center of the ball using your thumb, and place a piece of mozzarella cheese inside. Mold the rice around the cheese to fully encase it, ensuring no gaps exist. Repeat this process with the remaining rice and cheese.
Step 3: Breading the Rice Balls
To achieve that crispy exterior, set up a breading station. Place the flour in one bowl, the beaten eggs in another, and the breadcrumbs in a third bowl. Roll each rice ball in the flour, dip it in the egg, and then coat it generously with breadcrumbs. For an extra crispy texture, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps once more, creating a double coating.
Step 4: Frying the Rice Balls
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer over medium-high heat until it reaches 350F (175C). Carefully place a few rice balls into the hot oil using a slotted spoon or tongs. Fry them in batches, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remove the fried rice balls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serving Suggestions
Arancini are best served warm, allowing the oozy cheese center to shine. They can be enjoyed on their own as an appetizer, snack, or paired with a delicious dipping sauce like marinara, aioli, or pesto. For a complete Italian meal, serve the rice balls alongside a fresh salad, garlic bread, and a hearty main dish such as Mississippi Pot Roast or Crusty Bread.
Additional Tips and Variations
While traditional arancini are hard to beat, feel free to experiment with different fillings and flavors. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Meaty Fillings: Adding cooked meat such as ground beef, sausage, or chicken to the center of your rice balls can introduce a rich, savory dimension.
- Vegetarian Options: Opt for a vegetarian twist by incorporating spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes as the filling.
- Herbaceous Twists: Enhance the flavor profile by mixing fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme into the risotto before shaping the balls.
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as gouda, provolone, or feta, to create unique flavor combinations.
Cleaning Up
After a successful session of arancini-making, ensure your cookware is cleaned and maintained properly. Check out these recommended products to keep your kitchen tools in top condition:
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