Michael Symon's Arancini

Name: Michael Symon's Arancini
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked risotto; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 2 cups breadcrumbs; Vegetable oil for frying; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Discover the delightful flavors of Michael Symon's Arancini, a delicious Italian dish that brings comfort and joy to your table.

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2025-12-19T14:08:02.649Z

Michael Symon's Arancini are a delightful twist on traditional Italian rice balls, featuring a crispy exterior and a creamy, cheesy center. Perfect for sharing or as a satisfying snack!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside
A delightful blend of flavors and textures
Perfect for appetizers or a main course

      

The History of Arancini

Arancini, which translates to 'little oranges' in Italian, originated in Sicily and has a rich culinary history. Traditionally, they were made from leftover risotto, helping to reduce food waste while creating a delicious new dish. Over time, they have evolved into a beloved staple throughout Italy, often filled with various ingredients, including ragù, peas, and cheese.

Today, arancini are enjoyed worldwide, celebrated for their crunchy exterior and creamy interior. Their versatility makes them suitable for a variety of occasions, from casual gatherings to elegant dinner parties. Whether served as a snack or a main dish, arancini are sure to impress.

Perfect Pairings

When serving arancini, consider pairing them with a fresh salad or a side of marinara sauce. The acidity of the tomato sauce beautifully contrasts with the richness of the fried rice balls, enhancing each bite. Additionally, a crisp arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing balance to the dish.

For a complete meal experience, you might also serve arancini alongside a light pasta dish or a selection of antipasti. This way, your guests can enjoy the delightful flavors of Italy in a single, harmonious spread.

Tips for the Best Arancini

To achieve perfectly crispy arancini, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying. A good test is to drop a small piece of bread into the oil; if it sizzles and browns quickly, your oil is ready. Frying in batches will help maintain the oil temperature and ensure that each ball cooks evenly.

Don’t shy away from experimenting with fillings! While mozzarella is a classic choice, you can use different cheeses, meats, or even vegetables to customize your arancini. This flexibility allows you to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences, making arancini a delightful dish for everyone.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before starting to make the cooking process smoother.

Ingredients for Arancini

2 cups cooked risotto
1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
2 cups breadcrumbs
Vegetable oil for frying
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have all the ingredients prepared, you can start making the Arancini!

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to create perfect Arancini.

Prepare the Risotto

Ensure your risotto is fully cooked and cooled before proceeding. It should be sticky enough to hold its shape when formed into balls.

Form the Arancini

Take a small amount of risotto in your hands, flatten it slightly, and place a cube of mozzarella in the center. Mold the risotto around the cheese to form a ball.

Coat the Arancini

Dip each ball into flour, then into the beaten eggs, and finally roll them in breadcrumbs until fully coated.

Fry the Arancini

Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Fry the Arancini in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.

Serve

Enjoy your Arancini warm, perhaps with a side of marinara sauce for dipping!

Once cooked, let the Arancini cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious creation!

How to Store Leftover Arancini

If you have any leftover arancini, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. This method helps retain their texture, allowing you to enjoy them just as much as when they were freshly made.

For longer storage, consider freezing uncooked arancini. Simply follow the recipe up to the frying step, then freeze the formed balls on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your arancini with a variety of dipping sauces to enhance the experience. Marinara is a classic, but consider pesto, garlic aioli, or even a spicy arrabbiata sauce for an exciting twist. Each sauce complements the flavors of the arancini and offers a unique taste sensation.

For a creative presentation, stack the arancini on a platter with fresh herbs or lemon wedges. This not only adds visual appeal but also hints at the vibrant flavors within. Pair with a light Italian white wine or a refreshing sparkling beverage to elevate your dining experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make Arancini ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Arancini and refrigerate them before frying. Just fry them when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with Arancini?

Arancini are delightful on their own, but pair well with marinara sauce, pesto, or a fresh salad.

→ Can I freeze Arancini?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked Arancini. Just make sure to thaw them before frying.

→ What can I add to the filling?

Feel free to add cooked meats, vegetables, or different cheeses to customize your Arancini!