Arancini Rice Balls

These crispy, golden Arancini Rice Balls are the perfect blend of flavors and textures. Stuffed with gooey mozzarella and made from creamy risotto rice, they’re an excellent choice for any occasion—from casual get-togethers to elegant dinner parties. Not only do they boast mouthwatering taste, but their versatility as a snack or appetizer makes them irresistible. Serve them warm with marinara sauce for that classic Italian touch!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of ham, peas, and gooey mozzarella makes these rice balls a delightful treat.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a party or family meal, Arancini Rice Balls are an impressive addition to your menu.
• Fun to Make: Get the whole family involved in forming and breading these tasty bites!
• Crispy Texture: Frying gives them a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the rice mixture in advance for an easy assembly on serving day.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Arancini Rice Balls, gather some essential tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowls (3 shallow)
• Ice cream scoop
• Deep pot for frying
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot: Provides even heat distribution, crucial for cooking the rice perfectly.
• Baking sheet: Ideal for cooling the rice mixture evenly before shaping the balls.
• Ice cream scoop: Ensures consistent sizes for each rice ball, leading to even cooking.

Ingredients

These crispy, golden Arancini Rice Balls are stuffed with gooey mozzarella and packed with flavor! Made with creamy risotto rice, ham, peas, and Parmesan, they are the perfect appetizer or snack. Serve them warm with marinara for a classic Italian treat!

For the Risotto Base

• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
• 1 cup ham, finely diced (about 3 oz)
• 2 cups Jasmine rice, un-rinsed
• 1 cup Chardonnay (dry white wine)
• 5 cups chicken broth or stock (hot)
• 1 tsp salt (plus more to sprinkle fried arancini)
• 1 cup frozen peas, fully thawed
• ⅓ cup parsley, finely chopped
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded

For Rolling and Frying

• 4 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into 24 (½-inch) cubes
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• 1 ½ cups Italian bread crumbs
• Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or grapeseed oil)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Arancini Rice Balls

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

In a Dutch oven over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and butter. Add diced onion and sauté until soft and golden. Then add diced ham and cook for another two minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

Stir in Jasmine rice to coat it with oil. Pour in white wine and let it cook until mostly evaporated. Next, add hot chicken broth along with salt. Cover and simmer until absorbed.

Step 3: Cool the Mixture

Spread the cooked rice mixture onto a baking sheet. Let it cool to room temperature before mixing in parsley and Parmesan cheese.

Step 4: Forming the Rice Balls

With wet hands, scoop a heaping ice cream scoop of cooled rice mixture. Place a mozzarella cube in the center and roll into a tight ball.

Step 5: Breading Process

Set up three shallow bowls:
1. First bowl: Flour
2. Second bowl: Beaten eggs
3. Third bowl: Bread crumbs

Dredge each rice ball in flour first. Then dip it in egg before rolling it in breadcrumbs until evenly coated.

Step 6: Frying the Rice Balls

Heat one inch of oil in a deep pot to 350°F. Fry each batch of rice balls for about three minutes until all sides are golden brown.

Step 7: Serving

Transfer fried Arancini Rice Balls onto paper towels to drain excess oil. Sprinkle lightly with salt before serving them warm alongside marinara sauce.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delicious Arancini Rice Balls! Perfectly crispy on the outside and meltingly cheesy on the inside—your guests will love them!

How to Serve Arancini Rice Balls

Arancini Rice Balls are not only delicious but also versatile in how they can be served. These crispy treats can be enjoyed in various ways, enhancing their flavor and presentation.

With Marinara Sauce

• Marinara dip: Serve warm Arancini Rice Balls alongside a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping. The tangy sauce complements the cheesy filling beautifully.

On a Salad

• Fresh greens: Place the rice balls on a bed of mixed greens with a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette. This adds freshness and balances the richness of the arancini.

As Part of a Platter

• Appetizer platter: Include Arancini Rice Balls as part of an antipasto platter. Pair them with olives, cured meats, and cheeses for a delightful spread.

With Pesto Sauce

• Flavorful twist: Pair these rice balls with basil pesto instead of marinara for a unique flavor profile. The herbaceous notes elevate the dish.

Stuffed in a Sandwich

• Savory sandwich: Use Arancini Rice Balls as a filling in a crusty baguette or ciabatta with fresh arugula and aioli for an Italian-inspired sandwich.

How to Perfect Arancini Rice Balls

Perfecting Arancini Rice Balls takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your rice balls turn out delicious every time.

• Use cold rice: Allow the risotto to cool completely before forming balls. Cold rice holds its shape better and makes rolling easier.

• Adjust oil temperature: Make sure the frying oil is at 350°F for optimal crispiness. Too hot will burn the outside, while too cool will make them greasy.

• Experiment with fillings: Feel free to get creative! Try using different cheeses or adding vegetables like spinach for variety.

• Double breading: For extra crunch, consider double-breading your rice balls by dipping them in flour, egg, breadcrumbs, then repeating that process.

• Serve immediately: Enjoy your Arancini Rice Balls fresh from the fryer for the best texture and flavor. They can lose their crispness if left too long.

Best Side Dishes for Arancini Rice Balls

Pairing side dishes with your Arancini Rice Balls can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to serve alongside this tasty treat.

1. Caprese Salad: A refreshing mix of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction adds a light contrast.
2. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread pairs wonderfully with marinara sauce, perfect for scooping up any leftover dip.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables offer a healthy balance to the rich flavors of arancini.
4. Zucchini Fritters: These savory fritters add a crunchy texture that complements the soft interior of your rice balls.
5. Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Lightly seasoned shrimp provide protein and freshness that pairs well with the cheesy goodness.
6. Antipasto Salad: A salad filled with olives, artichokes, and salami gives an Italian flair that matches perfectly with arancini.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Arancini Rice Balls can be fun, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch for:

• Skipping the cooling step: Failing to let the rice mixture cool properly can result in mushy rice balls that don’t hold their shape. Always allow the mixture to reach room temperature before forming the balls.

• Not using enough oil for frying: If you don’t use enough oil, your rice balls might stick to the bottom of the pot and won’t fry evenly. Ensure there’s at least an inch of oil in your pot for perfect frying.

• Overfilling with cheese: While gooey mozzarella is delicious, putting too much in can cause it to ooze out while frying. Use just one cube per ball to keep them intact.

• Neglecting seasoning: Not seasoning the rice mixture adequately can lead to bland Arancini Rice Balls. Make sure you taste and adjust salt before forming the balls.

• Rushing the frying process: Frying too many rice balls at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to greasy Arancini Rice Balls. Fry in small batches for a crispy finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Arancini Rice Balls in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Arancini Rice Balls

• Freeze uncooked or cooked Arancini Rice Balls.
• Use a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Arancini Rice Balls

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake on a baking sheet for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 1 minute. Note that this may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat. Add rice balls and cook for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Arancini Rice Balls:

What types of rice are best for making Arancini Rice Balls?

Arborio or Jasmine rice is ideal due to their starch content, which helps create a creamy texture. Avoid using long-grain varieties as they won’t yield the same consistency.

Can I customize my Arancini Rice Balls?

Absolutely! You can add different fillings like spinach, mushrooms, or different cheeses based on your preferences. Experiment with flavors to make them your own!

How do I prevent my Arancini Rice Balls from falling apart?

Ensure the rice mixture is cooled completely before forming balls. Also, make sure they are well-coated with breadcrumbs before frying for added stability.

Can I bake instead of fry my Arancini Rice Balls?

Yes! For a healthier option, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown, turning halfway through.

Final Thoughts

These Arancini Rice Balls are not only delicious but also versatile! Whether served as an appetizer or snack, they are sure to impress your guests. Plus, you can easily customize them with various fillings and seasonings. Don’t hesitate—try making these delightful bites today!