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Italian Arancini Recipe

Italian Arancini Recipe
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★★★★★

4.8 from 20 reviews

Italian Arancini are crispy, golden fried risotto balls filled with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This traditional Sicilian snack is perfect as an appetizer or a satisfying treat, served hot with tangy marinara sauce for dipping.

Ingredients

Scale

Arancini Mixture

  • 2 cups cooked risotto (chilled)
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Coating

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 ½ cups Italian-style breadcrumbs

Frying

  • Vegetable oil (for frying)

Serving

  • Marinara sauce (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Risotto Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the chilled cooked risotto with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Season the mixture generously with salt and pepper, stirring well to evenly distribute the flavors.
  2. Shape the Arancini: Using your hands, shape the risotto mixture into firm 1-inch balls, ensuring each ball has some cheese inside for a gooey center.
  3. Coat the Balls: Roll each risotto ball first in all-purpose flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with Italian-style breadcrumbs to create a crispy outer layer.
  4. Heat the Oil: In a large deep skillet or pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches a temperature of about 350°F (175°C), suitable for frying.
  5. Fry the Arancini: Carefully fry the coated risotto balls in batches to avoid overcrowding. Turn occasionally, frying until they achieve an even golden brown and crispy texture on all sides, approximately 3-4 minutes per batch.
  6. Drain and Serve: Remove the fried arancini from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately while hot, accompanied by marinara sauce if desired for dipping.

Notes

  • Use chilled risotto to help the balls hold their shape during frying.
  • Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to avoid oily arancini.
  • For added flavor, you can mix finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil into the risotto mixture.
  • These arancini can be baked for a healthier option but will not be as crispy as fried ones.
  • Arancini are best served fresh, but you can keep them warm in a low oven for up to 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian Arancini, Fried Risotto Balls, Italian Appetizer, Crispy Cheese Balls

Find it online: https://trendytasterecipes.com/italian-arancini-recipe/