Description
These Arancini Italian Rice Balls are a crispy, golden-brown delight filled with cheesy goodness and savory flavors. With a crunchy exterior and a warm, melty interior, these rice balls make a perfect appetizer or snack. They’re a delicious way to use leftover risotto, and with a simple marinara dipping sauce, they’ll have everyone coming back for more!
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Ingredients
Scale
For the Rice Balls:
- 2 cups leftover risotto (preferably cold)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed (or any cheese of your choice)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for coating)
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Dipping Sauce (Optional):
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Rice Ball Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine the leftover risotto, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Use your hands or a spoon to mix the ingredients together until evenly combined.
Step 2: Shape the Rice Balls
- With wet hands (to prevent sticking), scoop out a small amount of the rice mixture, about the size of a golf ball.
- Press a small cube of mozzarella cheese into the center of each ball and then seal it, rolling it into a tight ball shape.
Step 3: Coat the Rice Balls
- Prepare a breading station with three shallow dishes:
- In the first dish, place the flour.
- In the second dish, beat the egg.
- In the third dish, place the breadcrumbs.
- Dip each rice ball into the flour, coating it lightly.
- Next, dip it into the egg, making sure it’s fully coated.
- Finally, roll the rice ball in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even coat.
Step 4: Fry the Rice Balls
- Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a frying pan or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully drop the rice balls into the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the rice balls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
- Serve your crispy Arancini Italian Rice Balls hot with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a touch of color and extra flavor!
Notes
- Use cold risotto: Cold risotto is easier to shape into balls and will hold together better during frying.
- Experiment with fillings: Try adding cooked ground beef, sausage, or even a few olives to the center for a twist.
- Fry in batches: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure the rice balls fry evenly and get that perfect golden color.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: Italian