Rice Arancini, sometimes also called Arancine, are balls of saffron rice stuffed with meat sauce and peas and then breaded and deep-fried until crispy and golden. Real goodness served as a snack or as an appetizer. This recipe originates from Sicily, Italy, as a popular street food.
The word “arancini” means “little oranges” in Italian, referring to the round shape and orange color of the fried rice balls. They are usually enjoyed hot, with a tender and flavorful filling surrounded by a crispy outer layer.
Arancini are created by shaping cooked risotto into either a conical or round form, with mozzarella cheese at its center. The dish is sometimes referred to as “arancini di riso al telefono” due to the way the mozzarella stretches into a string-like shape when the arancini are broken apart, resembling a telephone line.
Have you seen White Lotus Season 2 and fell in love with Sicily and Sicilian food? Can’t wait to try some arancini (without having to steal them like in the tv show)? This recipe is exactly what you’re looking for.