Arancini

Italian rice balls stuffed with various fillings

Arancini are Italian rice balls that are stuffed, coated with breadcrumbs, and fried. They are a popular street food in Sicily and are known for their crispy exterior and flavorful fillings. The name "arancini" is derived from the Italian word for "little oranges," which reflects their shape and color after cooking.

History

The origins of arancini are deeply rooted in Sicilian cuisine, with some sources suggesting they date back to the 10th century during the Arab rule of Sicily. The Arabs introduced rice and saffron to the region, which are key ingredients in arancini. Over time, the dish evolved, incorporating local ingredients and culinary techniques.

Preparation

Arancini are made by forming balls of cooked risotto rice, which is often flavored with saffron. The rice balls are then stuffed with a variety of fillings, such as ragu, mozzarella, peas, or ham. Once stuffed, the balls are coated in breadcrumbs and deep-fried until golden brown.

Arancini

Variations

There are numerous variations of arancini, each with unique fillings and shapes. Some of the most popular include:

• Arancini al ragù: Filled with meat sauce, peas, and mozzarella.
• Arancini al burro: Filled with ham and mozzarella.
• Arancini con funghi: Filled with mushrooms.
• Arancini con melanzane: Filled with eggplant.

In eastern Sicily, arancini are often conical in shape, while in western Sicily, they are typically round.

Mozzarella Arancini

Cultural Significance

Arancini are a staple of Sicilian cuisine and are enjoyed throughout Italy. They are often served as a snack or appetizer and are a popular choice for festivals and celebrations. In Sicily, arancini are traditionally eaten on Santa Lucia's Day, December 13th, when bread and pasta are not consumed.

Related Dishes

Arancini are similar to other rice-based dishes found in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, such as supplì in Rome, which are also rice balls but typically contain tomato sauce and mozzarella.

Arancine in Favignana

Related pages

• Sicilian cuisine
• Italian cuisine
• Street food
• Supplì

Gallery

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  Arancini Messinesi