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arancini recipe

Arancini Recipe

Pinklady
Arancini, meaning "little oranges" in Italian, derive their name from their orange-like appearance after frying. This dish traces its origins to Sicily, where it was first created as a portable meal for travelers. Over centuries, arancini evolved with regional variations, including fillings like ragù, mozzarella, ham, and peas. Today, arancini are a staple of Italian cuisine and are enjoyed worldwide.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 32 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 260 kcal

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Large Skillet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Slotted spoon
  • Paper towels
  • Frying thermometer (optional)

Ingredients
  

For the Risotto:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • ½ cup dry white wine (optional)
  • 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth, warmed
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Arancini:

  • 2 cups prepared risotto (cooled)
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1½ cups breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Risotto
    Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and translucent.
  • Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted.
  • Add the wine (if using) and let it simmer until absorbed.
  • Gradually add the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Allow each addition to absorb before adding the next.
  • Once the rice is tender and creamy (about 20 minutes), stir in Parmesan cheese, butter, and season with salt and pepper. Let the risotto cool completely.
  • Shape the Arancini
    Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the cooled risotto into your hand and flatten it into a disc.
  • Place a cube of mozzarella in the center, then shape the risotto around it to form a ball. Repeat with the remaining risotto.
  • Coat the Arancini
    Place the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate shallow bowls.
  • Roll each rice ball in the flour, then dip it in the egg, and finally coat it in breadcrumbs.
  • Fry the Arancini
    Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  • Fry the arancini in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy (about 3-4 minutes per batch).
  • Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Video

Keyword Arancini Recipe