Italian Christmas Dinner: Sicilian Arancini Recipe

Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will transport your taste buds straight to Italy? Today, we’re going to delve into the world of ARANCINI BALLS, a delightful Italian dish that’s perfect for Italian Christmas dinner. These crispy, golden balls of joy are made with love and care, and we’re here to guide you through the entire process.

Arancini balls are a Sicilian specialty known for their exquisite taste and crispy exterior. These golden spheres are made from Arborio rice, which gives them a creamy, comforting center. They are typically filled with mozzarella cheese, creating a delightful surprise when you take a bite. Served with a side of tomato sauce, these Arancini Balls make for a perfect festive dish that will impress your guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the step-by-step instructions, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need to create these scrumptious Arancini Balls:

• 1 fresh mozzarella ball (or Fior di latte)
• 500g Arborio rice
• Thin slice of butter
• ¼ onion (chopped into pieces)
• 1 x vegetable stock cube
• Fresh breadcrumbs in a wide bowl
• 1L water
• Small bowl of water for your hands
• 2 eggs
• Vegetable oil (enough for frying)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s start crafting these delectable Arancini Balls:

Step 1: Preparing the Rice

• In a large saucepan, melt the thin slice of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent.
• Pour in the Arborio rice and stir until it’s well-coated with butter.
• Dissolve the vegetable stock cube in 1 liter of water and slowly add it to the rice, one ladle at a time, stirring continuously.
• Keep adding the stock and stirring until the rice is cooked al dente. It should be creamy but still have a slight bite.

Step 2: Assembling the Arancini Balls

• Once the rice is ready, spread it on a baking sheet to cool down.
• Take a small handful of cooled rice and flatten it in your palm.
• Place a small cube of mozzarella cheese in the center and encase it with the rice, forming a ball. Ensure it’s tightly packed.
• Repeat this process until all the rice and cheese have been used.

Step 3: Coating and Frying

• Beat the eggs in a bowl and pour the breadcrumbs into another bowl.
• Dip each rice ball into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s well-coated, and then roll it in the breadcrumbs until it’s fully covered.
• Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
• Carefully place the coated Arancini Balls into the hot oil and fry until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
• Remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.

Pro Tips for Perfect Arancini

• Use cold, cooked rice: Day-old rice works best as it’s firmer and less sticky.
• Get creative with fillings: While mozzarella is classic, you can experiment with different fillings like peas, sautéed mushrooms, or even a meat ragù.
• Keep the oil hot: Maintaining the right oil temperature ensures crispy Arancini Balls.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I store leftover Arancini Balls? Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispiness.

Can I freeze Arancini Balls? Yes, you can freeze them before frying. Place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Fry them directly from frozen when needed.

What can I serve with Arancini Balls? These delightful treats are perfect on their own, but you can also serve them with marinara sauce for dipping or a side salad for a complete meal.

How do I prevent my Arancini Balls from falling apart during frying? Make sure the rice balls are tightly packed and the oil is hot enough. A well-coated outer layer with breadcrumbs also helps keep them together.

Can I make mini Arancini for appetizers? Absolutely! Simply make smaller rice balls for bite-sized appetizers that will be a hit at any gathering.

What’s the origin of Arancini Balls? Arancini Balls originated in Sicily, Italy. The name “arancini” comes from the Italian word “arancia,” which means “orange,” due to their round, orange-like shape.

Congratulations! You’ve just embarked on a culinary journey to create the perfect Arancini Balls for your Christmas dinner. These golden delights are sure to impress your guests with their crispy exterior and creamy, cheesy center. Remember to get creative with fillings and enjoy your homemade Sicilian treat.