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Easy Cheesy Arancini: Fried Italian Rice Balls

Close-up of four golden, crispy fried rice balls stacked on a white plate, with one showing melted cheese oozing out.
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Make classic Italian arancini at home. These savory, stuffed rice balls use leftover risotto, are filled with mozzarella cheese, breaded, and fried until golden brown and crispy.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cooked risotto (chilled)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups breadcrumbs (Panko preferred)
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix the chilled risotto, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the rice mixture and flatten it in your palm. Place a small cube of mozzarella in the center, then carefully mold the rice around it to form a tight ball.
  3. Set up a breading station: one shallow dish with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
  4. Roll each rice ball first in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg, letting excess drip off. Finally, coat thoroughly in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently so they adhere.
  5. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
  6. Carefully fry the rice balls in batches, turning occasionally, until they are deep golden brown and crispy, about 4 to 5 minutes. Do not overcrowd the pot.
  7. Remove the arancini with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Use leftover risotto for the best texture; fresh, warm risotto will not hold its shape well.
  • If you do not have risotto, cook Arborio rice with chicken or vegetable broth until creamy, then chill completely before forming the balls.
  • For a richer flavor, you can add 1/4 cup of finely chopped cooked meat ragu inside the cheese filling.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://whiskdaily.com/easy-cheesy-fried-rice-balls/