Delicious Arancini di Riso: A Taste of Italy
Arancini di Riso, also known as Rice Arancini, is a classic Italian recipe that combines leftover risotto with cheese and other fillings to create delectable fried rice balls. These crispy and creamy treats are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering with friends.
These savory morsels are a popular street food in Italy, but they can also be served as an appetizer or main course. The combination of gooey cheese, flavorful risotto, and crunchy exterior makes Arancini di Riso a crowd-pleaser that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Sicily.
So why not bring a taste of Italian food into your home with this mouthwatering dish? Whether you’re looking for a delicious snack or a show-stopping party appetizer, Arancini di Riso is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.
Arancini di Riso (Rice Arancini) Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 cups Arborio rice
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup finely chopped parsley
- 1/2 cup diced mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Preparation time: Approximately 45 minutes
Serves: 4 persons
Cooking time: Approximately 30 minutes
Difficulty score: 5 out of 10
The difficulty score is a bit higher as this recipe involves multiple steps such as cooking the rice, shaping the arancini, and frying them. However, with attention to detail and following the instructions carefully, you can easily master this Italian dish.
Instructions:
- In a large saucepan, bring the broth to a simmer. Add the Arborio rice and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, Parmesan cheese, parsley, Pecorino Romano cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Scoop a small amount of the rice mixture into your hand and flatten it slightly. Place a piece of diced mozzarella in the center and roll the rice mixture into a ball around it. Repeat with the remaining rice mixture.
- Dip each rice ball into the beaten eggs and then coat them with breadcrumbs.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Fry the arancini in batches until they are golden brown on all sides. Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet.
Serve hot with marinara sauce or enjoy them on their own as a delicious appetizer or snack! Buon appetito!
Nutrition: Arancini di Riso (Rice Arancini)
Arancini di Riso, also known as Rice Arancini, is a classic Italian recipe that consists of stuffed and fried rice balls. These delicious treats are typically filled with ragu, mozzarella, and peas, making them a popular choice for appetizers or snacks.
Here is the nutritional breakdown per serving of Arancini di Riso:
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 10g
- Sugar: 2g
This dish is relatively high in calories and fat due to the frying process involved in making Arancini di Riso. However, it does provide a decent amount of protein and carbohydrates, making it a satisfying and indulgent treat for those special occasions or as an occasional indulgence.
If you enjoy Italian food and are looking to try something new, Arancini di Riso is a flavorful and unique dish that is sure to impress your guests!
Serving suggestions for Arancini di Riso (Rice Arancini)
If you are serving Arancini di Riso at a party or gathering, consider presenting them on a platter with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. This will enhance the flavors and provide a delicious contrast to the crispy exterior and creamy interior of the arancini.
- For a more formal meal, you can serve Arancini di Riso as an appetizer before the main course of a traditional Italian dinner.
- You can also pair Arancini di Riso with a fresh green salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette to create a well-balanced and satisfying meal.
- Consider garnishing your Arancini di Riso with freshly chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for an added touch of flavor and visual appeal.
What to serve with Arancini di Riso (Rice Arancini)
When planning your menu around this classic Italian recipe, it is important to consider complementary dishes that will enhance the overall dining experience.
- Antipasto Platter: Start your meal with an antipasto platter featuring cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables to whet your guests’ appetites before enjoying the Arancini di Riso.
- Minestrone Soup: Serve a warm bowl of hearty minestrone soup alongside the Arancini di Riso for a comforting and satisfying meal that showcases the diverse flavors of Italian cuisine.
- Tiramisu: Finish off your meal with a decadent slice of tiramisu for dessert. The rich coffee flavor and creamy texture of this classic Italian dessert will provide a sweet ending to your dining experience.
Tips to Increase Flavor on Arancini di Riso (Rice Arancini)
If you want to enhance the flavor of your Italian recipe for Arancini di Riso (Rice Arancini), one key tip is to use a flavorful broth when cooking the rice. Instead of just using water, opt for a chicken or vegetable broth to infuse more depth into the rice.
Another tip is to incorporate a variety of Italian herbs and spices into the rice mixture. This can include dried oregano, basil, parsley, and even a pinch of saffron for added complexity.
To add an extra kick of flavor, consider mixing in some grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese into the rice mixture before forming them into balls. The richness of the cheese will elevate the overall taste of the Arancini di Riso.
Spicy Score: 3 out of 10
I would give this recipe a spicy score of 3 out of 10. While traditional Arancini di Riso are not typically spicy, you can certainly add some heat by incorporating chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the filling. However, it’s important to balance the spice level so as not to overpower the other flavors in this classic Italian dish.