Arancini Ball Recipe Vegetarian: Easy and Delicious Guide

Arancini balls are a beloved Italian street food that bring together crispy golden exteriors and creamy, cheesy interiors in perfect harmony. Traditionally stuffed with meat and peas, these delightful rice balls can easily be transformed into a vegetarian masterpiece without compromising on flavor or texture.

Whether you’re looking for an impressive appetizer or a comforting snack, this vegetarian arancini ball recipe will quickly become a kitchen favorite.

In this recipe, we use creamy risotto rice, melty mozzarella, and a medley of fresh herbs and vegetables to create a filling that bursts with taste in every bite. Coated in breadcrumbs and fried to perfection, these arancini maintain a satisfying crunch while delivering a warm, gooey surprise inside.

Plus, they’re perfect for meal prep, parties, or a cozy night in. Let’s dive into the world of crispy, cheesy, and utterly delicious vegetarian arancini!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian arancini ball recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic Italian snack without meat. It’s:

• Versatile: Easily adapt the filling with your favorite vegetables or cheese.
• Comforting: Crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy inside.
• Great for leftovers: Use leftover risotto or rice to make these.
• Kid-friendly: A fun finger food perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Gluten-free or vegan options are simple to create with substitutions.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked Arborio rice (preferably risotto-style, cooled)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup frozen peas (thawed)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• Vegetable oil for frying (about 4 cups)

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Frying pan or deep fryer
• Slotted spoon
• 3 shallow bowls (for flour, egg, and breadcrumbs)
• Paper towels
• Cooking thermometer (optional, to check oil temperature)
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Sauté the onion and garlic: Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. Prepare the rice mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cooked Arborio rice, sautéed onion and garlic, grated Parmesan, thawed peas, chopped parsley, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute all ingredients.
3. Form the arancini balls: Take a small handful (about 2 tablespoons) of the rice mixture and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place about 1 teaspoon of shredded mozzarella in the center, then mold the rice around the cheese to form a compact ball. Repeat with the remaining rice mixture and cheese.
4. Set up the breading station: Place the flour in one shallow bowl, the beaten eggs in a second, and the breadcrumbs in a third.
5. Coat each ball: Roll each rice ball first in flour, shaking off excess, then dip into the beaten egg, and finally coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. For an extra crispy crust, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps.
6. Chill the coated balls: Place the breaded arancini on a tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape during frying.
7. Heat the oil: In a deep frying pan or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer for best results to avoid under or over frying.
8. Fry the arancini: Fry the balls in batches, avoiding overcrowding the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on all sides. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried balls to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
9. Serve warm: Enjoy your arancini balls hot for the best gooey, cheesy experience.

Tips & Variations

“To keep your arancini crisp, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying and avoid overcrowding the pan.”

Cheese alternatives: Swap mozzarella for fontina or provolone for a different melty texture. For a vegan option, use vegan cheese.

Filling ideas: Add sautéed mushrooms, finely chopped roasted peppers, or even sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. You can also add a dollop of marinara sauce in the center before coating.

Cooking method: If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the arancini on a parchment-lined tray for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through for even browning.

Make ahead: Prepare and coat the balls in advance, then freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag.

Fry or bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes of cooking time.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Arancini balls are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. They pair beautifully with a vibrant marinara or arrabbiata sauce for dipping.

For a fresh contrast, serve alongside a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or a bowl of roasted vegetables.

For a more indulgent meal, consider accompanying your arancini with a side of creamy polenta or a simple tomato and basil pasta. If you’re hosting a party, these bite-sized treats can be served on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking.

Looking to explore more vegetarian delights? Check out our Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe or our delicious Kikkoman Stir Fry Sauce Recipe for quick, tasty dishes.

Conclusion

Making vegetarian arancini balls at home is a rewarding culinary adventure that brings a taste of Italy right to your kitchen. This recipe balances comforting textures and fresh ingredients, creating a snack that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.

Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining guests, or just treating yourself, these crispy, cheesy rice balls are sure to impress.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can customize this recipe endlessly to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Don’t forget to experiment with different fillings or try baking for a lighter version.

For more hearty and comforting recipes, you might enjoy our Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe or the ever-popular Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe.

Happy cooking, and buon appetito!

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