Arancini

Arancini

Arancini (ah-rahn-CHEE-nee)

Fried Rice Balls

Prep Time 1 hour
📈 Difficulty Hard
👥 Servings
6
🔥 Calories 352 kcal

Crispy golden Sicilian rice balls with a molten mozzarella heart and savory ragù filling, crunchy outside and creamy within.

Nutrition & Info

350 kcal per serving
Protein 12.0g
Carbs 40.0g
Fat 16.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

dairy-free nut-free

Allergen Warnings

⚠ gluten ⚠ dairy ⚠ eggs

Equipment Needed

deep fryer or heavy pot saucepan baking sheet

Presentation Guide

Vessel: paper-lined basket

Garnishes: marinara dipping sauce, lemon wedge

Accompaniments: arugula salad

Instructions

  1. 1

    Cook rice in broth with saffron until tender and liquid is absorbed. Spread on a tray, stir in Parmigiano and 1 beaten egg. Cool completely.

  2. 2

    Sauté onion in olive oil, add ground beef, cook until browned. Add passata and peas, simmer 10 min. Season and cool.

  3. 3

    Take a handful of rice, flatten in your palm, place a spoonful of ragù and a cube of mozzarella in the center.

  4. 4

    Close the rice around the filling, shaping into a ball or cone. Repeat with remaining rice.

  5. 5

    Dip each arancino in beaten egg, then roll in breadcrumbs, pressing to adhere.

  6. 6

    Deep-fry at 180°C (350°F) for 3-4 min until deep golden. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.

💡

Did You Know?

The name arancini means "little oranges" because the golden fried balls resemble the citrus fruit that grows abundantly in Sicily.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • deep fryer or heavy pot
  • saucepan
  • baking sheet

Garnishing

marinara dipping sauce, lemon wedge

Accompaniments

arugula salad

The Story Behind Arancini

Arancini were born under Arab rule in 10th-century Sicily, when rice was introduced to the island. Originally a portable meal for workers and travelers, they became Sicily's most iconic street food, with eastern and western halves of the island still debating the correct shape: ball or cone.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed street food, any time 📜 Origins: 10th century Sicily

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