Arancini rice balls are a popular Italian dish that is loved by many. These crispy and savory balls are made with leftover risotto rice, which is mixed with cheese, herbs, and spices. The mixture is then rolled into balls, coated in breadcrumbs, and deep-fried until golden brown. Arancini rice balls are perfect as a starter or snack, and they are sure to satisfy your cravings. Here's a simple recipe to make arancini rice balls at home:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover risotto rice
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Start by combining the leftover risotto rice, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, chopped parsley, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Mix everything together until well combined.
Next, take a small handful of the mixture and roll it into a ball. Repeat until all the mixture is used up.
Place the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate bowls. Dip each ball first in the flour, then in the beaten eggs, and finally in the breadcrumbs. Make sure each ball is well coated in breadcrumbs.
Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated balls to the oil and fry until golden brown. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Remove the balls from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.
Serve the arancini rice balls hot with your favorite dipping sauce. They are great with marinara sauce or aioli sauce.