Best Easy Arancini di Riso Recipe

Golden fried rice balls stuffed with ragù and mozzarella are Sicily's beloved street food. These high protein mediterranean bites are a family favorite and can be made ahead for freezer storage.

Cook 55 min Difficulty NORMAL 340 kcal
#mediterranean #high protein
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • cooked Arborio rice 3 cups
  • fresh mozzarella 6 oz
  • ground beef 8 oz
  • frozen peas 1 cup
  • eggs 2 pieces
  • Parmesan cheese 1 cup
  • breadcrumbs 1.5 cups
Seasonings/Sauce
  • olive oil 3 tbsp
  • onion 1 pieces
  • tomato paste 2 tbsp
  • black pepper 0.5 tsp
  • salt 1 tsp
  • nutmeg 0.25 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 39 g 46%
Protein 15 g 18%
Fat 13 g 36%
Serving size 130g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, sauté finely chopped onion for 2–3 minutes until translucent.

  2. 2

    Add ground beef and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned; stir in peas, tomato paste, black pepper, and half the salt. Simmer for 8 minutes, then cool.

  3. 3

    In a large bowl, mix cooked Arborio rice with eggs, Parmesan, remaining salt, and nutmeg. Chill this rice mixture for 20 mins to firm up.

  4. 4

    Take a small handful of rice mixture, flatten, and fill with a spoonful of the ragù mixture and a cube of mozzarella. Enclose and shape into balls about 2 inches wide.

  5. 5

    Roll each rice ball in breadcrumbs, pressing gently for even coating. Heat remaining olive oil in a deep pan to 350°F; fry balls in batches for 3–4 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels before serving.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The star ingredient of this Arancini di Riso recipe is Arborio rice, which provides the ideal creamy texture and structure for shaping. The combination of ragù (ground beef and peas) and mozzarella adds signature flavor and filling, making these rice balls distinctively Sicilian.
Q. How do I ensure the rice balls don't fall apart during frying?
To prevent Arancini from breaking apart, chill the rice mixture after mixing with eggs and Parmesan. This step firms the texture. Also, coat each ball thoroughly with breadcrumbs and handle gently when frying at 350°F for a stable, golden crust.
Q. What's the best way to control oil temperature for frying?
Heating olive oil to 350°F is crucial for a crisp, golden crust. Fry in batches to keep the oil temperature steady and avoid soggy rice balls. Use a thermometer for precision, or test with a small breadcrumb—if it sizzles and browns evenly, the oil is ready.
Q. How many calories and protein are in each serving?
Each serving of Best Easy Arancini di Riso Recipe contains approximately 340 kcal and 15 grams of protein, making these rice balls a satisfying high-protein Mediterranean option for snacks or meals.
Q. What nutritional balance does this recipe offer?
This recipe offers a macronutrient ratio of 46% carbohydrates (39g), 18% protein (15g), and 36% fat (13g) per 130g serving, providing hearty energy and balanced nutrients typical of Mediterranean cuisine.
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