Italian Cheesy Rice Balls (Arancini)
Ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice (e.g., Jasmine)
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh basil, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth, divided
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into 18 chunks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
- Sauté Aromatics:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with the olive oil. Add the onion, cooking until soft and translucent, about 15 minutes. Add the minced garlic, sautéing for another 1-2 minutes.
- Deglaze and Simmer:
- Pour the white wine into the skillet, allowing it to simmer and reduce by half, roughly 5 minutes.
- Cook the Rice:
- Stir in the rice and fresh herbs, mixing well. Add 2 cups of chicken broth and simmer, stirring until the broth is absorbed. Gradually add the remaining broth, ladle by ladle, allowing each addition to be absorbed before adding more, until the rice is fully cooked and creamy, about 30 minutes in total.
- Add Cheese:
- Remove the skillet from the heat and mix in the grated Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper. Spread the rice out to cool completely, ideally refrigerating overnight.
- Form the Balls:
- Once cooled, take spoonfuls of the rice, forming golf ball-sized portions. Flatten each portion, place a chunk of mozzarella in the center, and then encase the cheese with the rice, rolling it into a smooth ball.
- Prepare for Frying:
- Heat several inches of vegetable oil in a heavy pot to 375°F. Arrange three bowls for dredging: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
- Dredge and Fry:
- Coat each rice ball first in flour, then egg, and finally breadcrumbs. Fry in batches until golden brown, about 1 minute. Use a slotted spoon to transfer to paper towels to drain.
- Serve:
- Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs. Serve warm with marinara sauce or your preferred dipping sauce.
Enjoy these savory and cheesy Italian rice balls, a perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion.
