Arancini

 

Ingredients:

- 2 cups Arborio rice

- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth

- 1 small onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves of garlic, minced

- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, diced

- 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley

- 1/2 cup dry breadcrumbs

- 2 large eggs

- Salt and pepper, to taste

- Vegetable oil, for frying

For the filling:

- 1 cup cooked ground meat (beef, veal, or a mixture)

- 1/4 cup tomato sauce

- 1/4 cup frozen peas (optional)

- Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, bring the vegetable or chicken broth to a boil. Add the Arborio rice and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Make sure the rice is slightly sticky.

2. In a separate pan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.

3. Add the cooked ground meat to the pan and cook until browned. Stir in the tomato sauce and frozen peas (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.

4. Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Transfer the rice to a large mixing bowl.

5. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and salt and pepper to the rice. Mix well to combine.

6. Take a handful of the rice mixture and flatten it in the palm of your hand. Place a small amount of the meat filling in the center of the rice and add a piece of mozzarella cheese on top.

7. Mold the rice around the filling, shaping it into a ball. Repeat with the remaining rice and filling.

8. In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs. In another shallow bowl, place the breadcrumbs.

9. Dip each rice ball into the beaten eggs, coating it thoroughly, and then roll it in the breadcrumbs until evenly coated.

10. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large, deep pan to approximately 350°F (180°C). Carefully place a few arancini into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

11. Repeat the frying process with the remaining arancini.

12. Serve the arancini hot as an appetizer or a main course. They can be enjoyed on their own or with a side of tomato sauce for dipping.

Enjoy your homemade arancini!