Arancini are delicious, deep-fried rice balls that are a beloved staple of Sicilian cuisine. These golden, crispy treats are made from risotto that is shaped into balls, filled with cheese, meat, or peas, and then breaded and fried to perfection. The name “arancini” comes from the Italian word “arancia,” meaning “orange,” due to the golden color of the rice balls, which resemble small oranges. This is a traditional, authentic Italian Arancini recipe.
The base of arancini is typically leftover risotto, which is cooled, formed into small balls, and filled with a variety of savory ingredients. The most common filling includes mozzarella or other cheeses, while some recipes also incorporate ground meat, ragu, or peas for added flavor. Once the rice balls are stuffed, they are coated in breadcrumbs and deep-fried until the outside is crispy and golden, while the inside remains soft, gooey, and flavorful.
Arancini are commonly served as a snack or appetizer and are often enjoyed as street food in Sicily and other parts of Italy. They are also a popular addition to festive gatherings and family meals. Their combination of textures – crunchy on the outside and creamy on the inside – makes them an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Although the traditional filling includes cheese and meat, modern variations of arancini are often made with other ingredients, such as vegetables or seafood, allowing for a wide range of flavors. Some recipes even feature a combination of sweet and savory elements, such as using a sweet filling with ricotta cheese.
Arancini are typically served hot and fresh, straight from the fryer. They are perfect on their own or paired with a dipping sauce, such as marinara or a creamy aioli. Whether you’re enjoying them as a quick snack or as part of a larger meal, arancini are sure to delight with their rich flavors and crispy textures.
Ingredients
- 2 cups risotto rice preferably arborio, cooked and cooled
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese diced
- 1 cup breadcrumbs for coating, preferably panko
- 2 large eggs lightly beaten
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 quart vegetable oil for frying
- to taste salt
- to taste black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
- Form the cooked and cooled risotto rice into small balls about the size of a golf ball, placing a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center of each ball.
- Roll each rice ball in flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep-fryer or deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Carefully lower the breaded rice balls into the oil and fry until golden brown and crisp, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove the arancini from the oil using a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Season with salt and pepper while hot.
- Serve warm, and enjoy the gooey mozzarella cheese inside!
Nutrition
Good, but a bit greasy for my liking. Might try baking them next time.
Wow, these arancini are amazing! The cheese inside is so gooey and delicious. Definitely a hit at my party!
I’m so glad you loved them! Arancini are always a crowd-pleaser. Did you add any sauces on the side?
They sound good, but I’ve tried making them before and they just fell apart. Any tips for keeping them together?
I tried making these, but they fell apart. I didn’t have panko and used regular breadcrumbs instead. Maybe that was the problem?
Just okay for me. Not as easy as it sounds. I think my balls ended up too small or something. 🤷♂️
Arancini is Italian tradition, and this recipe nails it! My family loved them!
I’m so glad you and your family enjoyed it! Arancini really is a crowd-pleaser. 😊
Looks good, but frying sounds a bit risky. I ain’t got a fryer and I don’t wanna burn my house down. 😂
Can u substitute rice with something else? Like, maybe pasta? Just thinking.
too much work for me, I just buy them frozen from the store.
But store-bought just ain’t the same! You miss the gooeyness inside. It takes time, but it’s worth it!
I get it! Making arancini from scratch sounds tough. Frozen ones are great too!
These were AMAZING! The cheese oozed out just right. Best snack ever! 😍
Yum! I added some herbs to the rice for extra flavor. Will make again!
Sounds delicious! I’ve gotta try adding herbs next time too. What kind did you use?
I followed the recipe, but they fell apart when frying. Not sure what I did wrong!