Arancini (Italian Rice Balls)

Arancini (Italian Rice Balls) is a dish made from rice filled with various fillings like meat, cheese, or vegetables, then coated in breadcrumbs and fried to perfection. This dish is originally from Italy and has stolen the attention of many people. With its round shape and alluring golden hue, Arancini is not just visually appealing but also delivers a combination of rich flavors and delightful textures.

We usually find this dish in typical Italian restaurants, but we can make it at home. The ingredients are readily available in supermarkets. The preparation time for this dish is 15 minutes, while the cooking time is 50 minutes. This dish is perfect for serving during holidays and gatherings with family or friends.

History About Arancini (Italian Rice Balls)

Did you know this dish has a deep history that showcases Italy’s rich culinary culture? Arancini comes from Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea located south of mainland Italy. The name “arancini” comes from the word “arancia,” which means “orange” in Italian. Why is the name like that? Because its shape and color resemble a small orange fruit. Although the exact origins of arancini are debated, many historians believe that the dish first appeared during Arab rule in Sicily, sometime in the 10th to 12th centuries. In those days, Arabs brought rice and saffron to Sicily, two important ingredients in making arancini.

Arancini Cooking and Serving Techniques

Cooking rice: Cook the rice thoroughly so it achieves a sticky texture that’s enough to shape into a ball, but not overly mushy.

The process of shaping and filling the Arancini: Shaping the rice balls should be done by hand, and the filling needs to be centered to ensure the arancini stays intact during frying.

Selection of breadcrumbs: Choosing the right breadcrumbs is important because gives a crunchy texture that contrasts with the softness of the rice inside.

Cooking technique: Fry the Arancini usually until golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Other versions: Alternative options include a baked version of arancini, offering a healthier choice.

Serving the dish: Enjoy Arancini can be warm as either an appetizer or a snack. It is often accompanied by a dipping sauce, like a rich tomato sauce, to enhance its flavor.

What is special about this dish?

Arancini, or Italian Rice Balls, are special and many people love this dish.

Contrasting Texture

Arancini features a compelling mix of textures, with a crispy outer layer and a soft, creamy inside. The breadcrumbs on the outside deliver a satisfying crunch, while the rice and cheese filling offer a delightful softness.

Versatile Dish

Arancini is suitable for any gathering, whether as an appetizer, snack, or main course. Its convenience makes it a favored option for lunches and picnics. Additionally, in many countries, arancini is a popular street food because easy to carry and eat anywhere.

Rich Cultural Heritage

Arancini has an important part of Italian cultural heritage, especially from Sicily. This dish reflects the long history of cultural exchange and culinary innovation in Italy, with influences from the various civilizations that once occupied the island of Sicily. Each bite of Arancini connects us to its historical origins and rich culinary traditions.

Universal Appeal

Although its Italian origins, Arancini has fans all over the world. The combination of rice, cheese, and crispy fried meat is something that appeals. Additionally, Arancini can be customized with different local ingredients. Many people around the world like this dish.

Let’s make Arancini (Italian Rice Balls)!

Ingredients of Arancini (Italian Rice Balls)

Rice

• 3 tbsp Unsalted Butter: To stir-fry ingredients. Using unsalted butter allows for better control over the salt in the dish, so you can add salt to taste without worrying about the dish being too salty.
• 1 medium Onion finely diced: Gives a deep aroma and taste. As a flavor foundation that will balance the other ingredients.
• 1 cup Turkey finely diced, optional: As a protein filling in dishes. Finely chopped turkey meat mixes easily with rice and other ingredients, giving it a tender texture and delicious savory flavor.
• 1½ cup Arborio Rice: Gives a creamy texture to the rice, which is important for creating soft Arancini.
• 5 cup Chicken Stock: Gives a savory flavor that is absorbed by the rice during the cooking process, adding richness to the dish.
• 1/2 tsp Salt: To balance the taste.
• ½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Gives an intense savory taste. Parmesan also helps bind the rice together, contributing to its creamy texture, as well as providing a natural hint of saltiness.
• 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley finely chopped: Gives a green color and a light fresh taste. This adds flavor and enhances the appearance.
• 1 Egg: Helps the rice and other fillings stay together when forming into balls.
• Mozzarella Cheese diced: Gives a creamy taste and melts when we cut or bite the Arancini.

Breading

• 1 cup All-purpose Flour: To coat the arancini before dipping in egg and rolling in panko breadcrumbs.
• 2 Eggs beaten: Use egg in the outer coating, before rolling in breadcrumbs, to help the panko breadcrumbs stick well.
• 2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs: Use as the outer layer of Arancini to give crunchy.
• Oil for frying: Used to fry Arancini.

How to Make Arancini (Italian Rice Balls)

First, melt the butter in a wok pan over medium-high heat, and saute the onion until soft. Add turkey and cook until golden.

Add arborio rice and toast until translucent. Pour in half of the chicken stock and cook until almost evaporated, pour in the rest of the chicken stock and salt, cover, and let it simmer until the liquid is absorbed by the rice.

After that, the rice should be soft and the liquid is mostly absorbed, and removed from the heat.

Add parmesan cheese, parsley, and egg into the rice, and stir until well combined. Set aside and let it cool completely.

Wet the hands with water then shape ¼ cup of the rice mixture into round balls, and stuff each rice ball with mozzarella. Dredge the arancini respectively with flour, egg wash, and then breadcrumbs. Repeat the process with the remaining rice balls.

Lastly, heat oil in a pot over medium heat, then deep fry the rice balls until golden brown, rest them on a cooling rack to remove excess oil.

Serve with marinara sauce and enjoy your dish!

Nutrient Content

Carbohydrates: Arancini is made from rice, so carbohydrates are one of the main components. The use of rice is usually arborio or risotto rice, rich in complex carbohydrates.

Protein: The protein content in arancini comes from fillings such as meat or cheese, which is important for the growth and repair of body tissue.

Serving Recommendations

Serving this with a variety of side dishes or sauces can highlight the taste.

Marinara Sauce: A marinara sauce rich in tomato, garlic, and herbs is a classic pairing for this dish. The sweet and sour taste of this sauce balances the crunchy texture, making every bite more delicious.

Fresh Salad: Serving this dish with a fresh salad is a great way to add nutritional balance and provide a light, fresh element. A mixed salad with grilled vegetables is also a great choice.

Soup: Enjoying this dish with a warm bowl of soup can be a satisfying eating experience. Soups usually contain vegetables, beans, and pasta, providing a healthy and refreshing contrast.

Don’t forget to try this recipe, let me know if this recipe works and your favorite menu to cook. You can save this recipe with sign-up for my email list! Please leave a star rating and a review in the comment section further down the page. I always appreciate your feedback.

Also, you can follow our Pinterest, Instagram, and our  Youtube channel for the up-to-date menu!

Come on, try making other Italian recipes!