ARANCINI - FRIED RICE BALLS

Arancini are a traditional Italian dish of crispy fried rice balls filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables. Originating from Sicily, these bite-sized snacks are a popular appetiser in Italy and can be found in most trattorias and pizzerias. Arancini have a crispy exterior and a soft, chewy interior, making them the perfect snack or appetiser for any occasion.

Recommended wine: Pond Paddock Zarathustra Sauvignon Blanc

Servings	Calories	​Preparing	Cooking	Resting	Difficulty
4	500	30	20	5	3/4

· 2 cups of arborio rice

· 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth

· 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

· 1/2 cup of diced mozzarella cheese

· 1 egg, lightly beaten

· 1/2 tsp of salt

· 1/4 tsp of black pepper

· 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour

· 2 cups of breadcrumbs

· Vegetable oil for frying

· Optional fillings: cooked meat, tomato sauce, peas, sautéed mushrooms, etc.

Instructions:

1. According to package instructions, cook the arborio rice using chicken or vegetable broth instead of water.

2. Stir in Parmesan, mozzarella, egg, salt, and black pepper.

3. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.

4. In a shallow dish, place the flour.

5. In another shallow dish, place the breadcrumbs.

6. Using your hands, shape the rice mixture into balls about the size of a golf ball.

7. If using any fillings, insert a small amount into the centre of each ball, then shape the mixture around it to form a ball again.

8. Roll each ball in the flour, the beaten egg, and the breadcrumbs.

9. Repeat the process with the remaining balls.

10. Heat the vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches 190°C (375°F) on a thermometer in a large, deep saucepan.

11. Carefully place the arancini into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the saucepan.

12. Fry for about 3 to 4 minutes or until golden brown.

13. Using a slotted spoon, remove the arancini from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

14. Serve the arancini hot with your favourite dipping sauce.

Tips:

You can customize the filling by adding your favourite seafood or some grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavour.

To make the process easier, wet your hands with water before shaping the rice balls to prevent the rice from sticking.

Nutritional info per serving:

§ Carbohydrates: 45g

§ Fat: 10g

§ Fibre: 3g

§ Protein: 18g