Arancini Recipe Vegan: Easy and Delicious Plant-Based Bites

Arancini, the beloved Sicilian street food, are crispy, golden rice balls with a savory filling that delight every bite. Traditionally made with risotto, cheese, and meat, these treats are a comfort food staple in Italy.

But what if you’re following a vegan lifestyle or just want to enjoy a plant-based twist on this classic? That’s where this vegan arancini recipe comes in!

Using wholesome ingredients like creamy vegan risotto, flavorful mushrooms, and a crunchy breadcrumb coating, this recipe brings all the joy of arancini without any animal products.

Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or party finger food, these vegan arancini are crispy on the outside and irresistibly creamy inside. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan cook or new to plant-based meals, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding.

Ready to impress your friends with authentic Italian flavors, sustainably and compassionately? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan arancini recipe ticks all the boxes for a delicious, satisfying snack. It’s:

• Comforting and crispy: The golden-fried exterior gives way to a creamy, flavorful risotto center that melts in your mouth.
• Plant-based and wholesome: Made with fresh vegetables, mushrooms, and vegan cheese alternatives, it’s a healthy twist on a classic comfort food.
• Customizable: You can easily switch up the fillings or spices to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
• Perfect for entertaining: These bite-sized delights are great for parties, potlucks, or as a fun family meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups Arborio rice (for creamy risotto)
• 4 cups vegetable broth, kept warm
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped (cremini or button mushrooms work well)
• 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for cheesy flavor)
• 1/4 cup vegan parmesan cheese (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (such as almond or oat milk)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
• 1 1/2 cups unsweetened plant-based milk (for dipping)
• 2 cups breadcrumbs (panko or regular, for coating)
• Oil for frying (such as vegetable or canola oil)

Equipment

• Large saucepan or skillet
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Large mixing bowl
• Deep frying pan or deep fryer
• Slotted spoon or spider strainer
• Paper towels
• Plate or tray for shaping arancini
• Small bowls for dredging station (flour, plant milk, breadcrumbs)

Instructions

1. Prepare the risotto base: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms: Stir in the finely chopped mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Toast the rice: Add the Arborio rice to the pan and stir well to coat the grains with oil and vegetables. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.
4. Add broth gradually: Pour in about 1/2 cup of the warm vegetable broth and stir until absorbed. Continue adding broth in small increments, stirring frequently until the rice is creamy and al dente, about 18-20 minutes.
5. Mix in flavorings: Stir in the peas, nutritional yeast, vegan parmesan, plant-based milk, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let the risotto cool completely—this is crucial for shaping the arancini.
6. Shape the arancini: Once the risotto is cool, take a small handful (about 2 tablespoons) and flatten it in your palm. Place a small spoonful of filling (you can add extra mushrooms or vegan cheese if you like) in the center, then mold the rice around it to form a compact ball. Repeat until all the risotto is used.
7. Set up the dredging station: Place the flour in one bowl, the plant-based milk in another, and the breadcrumbs in a third. Roll each rice ball first in flour, then dip in the milk, and finally coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs.
8. Fry the arancini: Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the rice balls in batches, frying until golden and crispy on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to paper towels to drain excess oil.
9. Serve warm: Enjoy your vegan arancini hot, accompanied by your favorite marinara or dipping sauce.

Tips & Variations

For perfectly crispy arancini, make sure the risotto is completely cool before shaping. Warm risotto will be too soft and difficult to handle.

• Stuffing ideas: Try adding sun-dried tomatoes, sautéed spinach, or vegan mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
• Baking option: For a lighter version, bake your arancini at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden, flipping halfway through.
• Air fryer method: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, shaking once halfway to crisp evenly.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to adapt for gluten sensitivity.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Vegan arancini shine as a versatile dish. Serve them as an appetizer with a side of tangy marinara sauce or a garlic aioli made from vegan mayo and roasted garlic.

They’re also fantastic alongside a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables for a light lunch or dinner.

For a cozy meal, pair these arancini with a bowl of hearty tomato soup or your favorite vegan pasta dish. If you want to impress guests, try serving them on a platter with dipping sauces like spicy arrabbiata or a basil pesto made without cheese.

Looking for more vegan comfort food recipes? Check out our Half Runner Beans Recipe and Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe for tasty plant-based options that complement your arancini perfectly.

Conclusion

Making vegan arancini at home is a rewarding and delicious experience that brings the authentic taste of Sicily right to your kitchen. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create crispy, creamy rice balls filled with flavorful mushrooms and vegan cheese.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting snack or appetizer that aligns with a plant-based lifestyle.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, these arancini offer a wonderful blend of texture and taste that will have everyone asking for seconds. Don’t forget to explore more of our recipes like the Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe or the sweet and irresistible Glazed Twist Donut Recipe to satisfy your dessert cravings after this savory treat.

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