How to Make Italian-Style Seafood Arancini
Italian-style seafood arancini are a delicious take on the classic Sicilian rice balls. These crispy delights are filled with a savory mix of seafood and cheese, making them a perfect appetizer or snack. Follow this guide to create your own Italian-style seafood arancini at home.
Ingredients for Italian-Style Seafood Arancini
To make about 12 arancini, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups arborio rice
- 4 cups seafood stock
- 1 cup cooked shrimp, diced
- 1 cup cooked calamari, chopped
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 cups breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Rice
Begin by bringing the seafood stock to a boil in a saucepan. Stir in the arborio rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid. Remove from heat and let it cool.
2. Prepare the Filling
In a skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic until they are translucent. Add the cooked shrimp and calamari, cooking for an additional 4-5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and stir in the chopped parsley. Mix this seafood medley with the cooled rice and add the cubed mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Shape the Arancini
With slightly damp hands, take a handful of the rice mixture and form it into a ball, about the size of a golf ball. Make a small indentation in the center, insert a piece of mozzarella, and then reshape the ball to enclose the cheese completely. Repeat this process for the remaining mixture.
4. Coat the Arancini
Set up a breading station by placing the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate bowls. Roll each arancini ball in the flour, then dip it in the egg wash, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks.
5. Fry the Arancini
In a large, deep skillet or a pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully place a few arancini into the oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the arancini and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Italian-style seafood arancini warm with a side of marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra touch. These scrumptious bites are sure to impress your family and friends!
Tips for Perfect Arancini
- For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like basil or oregano to the rice mixture.
- Make sure the rice is well cooled before forming the balls to prevent them from falling apart.
- If you prefer, you can bake the arancini at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes instead of frying, for a healthier option.
Now that you know how to make Italian-style seafood arancini, you can enjoy these crispy, cheesy treats anytime you desire. Perfect for parties or as a gourmet snack, they are a must-try for any seafood lover!