Introduction
Arancini, a delightful Italian treat, are fried rice balls that often contain a gooey center of melted cheese. This recipe combines the creamy texture of Arborio rice with the rich flavors of Parmesan and mozzarella, creating a perfect balance of savory and cheesy goodness. Served with marinara sauce, these crispy delights make for a fabulous appetizer or snack that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
1 cup arborio rice
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
4 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into ½-inch cubes
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1½ cups Panko breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil, for frying
Marinara sauce, for serving
Prep Time
30 minutes (plus time for cooling the rice)
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 3-4 minutes per batch
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
Yield: 16 arancini balls
Follow these steps to create your delicious arancini and savor the crispy, cheesy goodness that this dish offers!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Broth and Rice
In a large pot, bring the chicken broth and 1 teaspoon of salt to a boil. Stir in the rice, cover, and simmer until cooked through, about 20 minutes.
Step 2: Cool the Rice
Spread the cooked rice onto a baking sheet and place it in the refrigerator to cool for about 30 minutes.
Step 3: Mix in Cheese and Parsley
Once the rice is cool, transfer it to a bowl and stir in the Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
Step 4: Form Rice Balls
Form the rice mixture into 16 balls. Place them on a baking sheet.
Step 5: Add Mozzarella Center
Insert a cube of mozzarella into the center of each rice ball, ensuring the cheese is completely encased by the rice.
Step 6: Prepare Breading Stations
Prepare three shallow bowls:
– In the first bowl, place the all-purpose flour.
– In the second bowl, beat the eggs.
– In the third bowl, place the Panko breadcrumbs.
Step 7: Bread the Rice Balls
Dredge each rice ball in the flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally roll it in the Panko breadcrumbs, ensuring an even coating.
Step 8: Heat the Oil
In a deep pot or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
Step 9: Fry the Arancini
Fry the arancini in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Cook each batch until golden brown and heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 10: Drain the Arancini
Remove the arancini with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Step 11: Serve
Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
Rice Consistency
Ensure that the rice is cooked well but not mushy, as it needs to hold together when forming the balls.
Cooling Time
Allowing the rice to cool completely is crucial for forming the balls without them falling apart.
Frying Tips
Fry only a few arancini at a time to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve immediately for the best texture, as they are best enjoyed warm when the cheese is melty.
Cook techniques
Boiling
Bringing chicken broth to a boil with salted water is essential for cooking the arborio rice evenly, allowing the grains to absorb the liquid and become tender.
Cooling
Spreading the cooked rice on a baking sheet and refrigerating it helps the grains firm up, making them easier to shape into balls.
Mixing
Incorporating Parmesan cheese and parsley into the cooled rice adds flavor and richness while ensuring even distribution throughout the rice balls.
Forming
Shaping the rice mixture into balls and inserting mozzarella cubes in the center ensures that the cheese melts beautifully during frying.
Dredging
Coating the rice balls in flour, egg, and Panko breadcrumbs creates a crunchy exterior, which contrasts with the creamy interior once fried.
Frying
Heating vegetable oil to the correct temperature is crucial for achieving a golden-brown color while maintaining a soft interior. Frying in batches prevents overcrowding, which could lower the oil temperature.
FAQ
Can I use other types of cheese instead of mozzarella?
Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with other melting cheeses, such as provolone or fontina, for different flavor profiles.
What if I don’t have Panko breadcrumbs?
You can use regular breadcrumbs as a substitute, though Panko gives a lighter, crispier texture.
Can I make these rice balls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rice balls and freeze them before frying. Just ensure they are tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
What can I serve with arancini besides marinara sauce?
Arancini can be served with a variety of sauces, such as spicy aioli, garlic butter, or a simple basil pesto.
How do I store leftover arancini?
Leftover arancini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Conclusion
The arancini made with arborio rice and mozzarella provide a deliciously crispy and cheesy treat that is perfect for any occasion. This dish combines the savory flavors of chicken broth, Parmesan, and fresh parsley into satisfying rice balls. Paired with marinara sauce, they make for a delightful appetizer or snack that is sure to please friends and family.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Experiment with different fillings by adding cooked meats like ground beef or sausage inside the arancini for extra flavor.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Try incorporating other types of cheese, such as goat cheese or cheddar, for a unique twist on the traditional mozzarella filling.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Add chopped vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers to the rice mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Serve the arancini with various dipping sauces, such as pesto, ranch, or a spicy aioli, to elevate the dining experience.
More recipes suggestions and combination
For an extra crunch, coat the arancini with a mixture of Panko and grated Parmesan before frying.
