Arancini (Cheese-Stuffed Rice Balls) Recipe

 

Arancini (Cheese-Stuffed Rice Balls)

Arancini are crispy, golden-brown rice balls filled with melty cheese. A delicious Italian treat, perfect for appetizers, snacks, or a fun meal!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked Arborio rice (or any short-grain rice)
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cut into small cubes (or use string cheese)
• 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 large egg
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs (for coating)
• 2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• Marinara sauce (for dipping)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Rice Mixture:

1. Cook the rice if you haven’t already and allow it to cool completely. This will make it easier to handle.
2. In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice with the egg, butter, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Take a small portion of the rice mixture and flatten it into a patty. Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center and mold the rice around it to form a ball. Make sure the cheese is fully enclosed. Repeat with the remaining rice and cheese.

2. Coat the Rice Balls:

1. Roll each rice ball first in flour, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it in breadcrumbs, ensuring it's fully covered.

3. Fry the Arancini:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pan or pot to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry the rice balls in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
3. Remove the arancini with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

4. Serve:

• Serve the arancini hot with marinara sauce for dipping.

These crispy cheese-stuffed rice balls are perfectly creamy inside and crispy outside. You can add herbs, ham, or sausage to the filling for more flavor variations. Would you like to try different types of cheese or add any extra fillings to the recipe?