15 Italian Rice Balls Recipe With Meat And Peas Elevate Your Taste Buds!
Published on: Mar 15, 2024
Rice balls, also known as arancini, are a delicious and versatile Italian dish that can be served as an appetizer, snack, or even a main course. Made with a mixture of rice, meat, and vegetables, these crispy and flavorful balls are a crowd-pleasing favorite. In this article, we will share with you an authentic Italian rice balls recipe with meat and peas that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Sicily. Follow along as we guide you through the step-by-step process of creating this mouth-watering dish.
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The Ingredients You Will Need
To make these delectable Italian rice balls, you will need the following ingredients:
Rice: Use short-grain rice, such as Arborio or Carnaroli, to achieve the perfect texture.
Ground meat: We recommend using a combination of beef, pork, and veal for a well-rounded flavor. You can also use just one type of meat if preferred.
Peas: Fresh or frozen peas will add a burst of color and a touch of sweetness to the rice balls.
Onion and garlic: These aromatic vegetables will give depth and flavor to the dish.
Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth will enhance the taste of the rice and add moisture.
Eggs: Beaten eggs will act as a binding agent to hold the rice balls together.
Parmesan cheese: Grated parmesan cheese will add a rich and nutty flavor to the rice balls.
Breadcrumbs: Use breadcrumbs to coat the rice balls and give them a crispy exterior.
Oil: Vegetable or canola oil for frying the rice balls until golden brown and crispy.
Optional ingredients:
Mozzarella cheese: For an extra gooey and cheesy center, you can add a cube of mozzarella cheese in the middle of the rice ball before frying.
Prosciutto: For a twist on the classic recipe, you can add diced prosciutto to the rice mixture for a salty and savory flavor.
Saffron: Adding a pinch of saffron to the rice while cooking will give the rice balls a beautiful golden color and a subtle flavor.
The Step-by-Step Process
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, it's time to start making the rice balls. Follow these simple steps to achieve perfect arancini:
Step 1: Cook the Rice
In a pot, bring the broth to a boil and add the rice. Cook the rice until it is tender, about 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, remove from heat and let it cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a pan, cook the ground meat until it is browned. Add in the chopped onion and garlic and cook until they become soft and fragrant. Add in the peas and cook for a few more minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Assemble the Rice Balls
In a bowl, mix the cooked rice with the meat and pea mixture. Add in the beaten eggs and parmesan cheese and mix until well combined. Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
Optional: If using mozzarella cheese, insert a cube in the middle of the rice ball before shaping it.
Step 4: Coat and Fry the Rice Balls
In a separate bowl, beat some eggs and place breadcrumbs in another bowl. Dip each rice ball into the beaten eggs, then coat it with breadcrumbs. In a frying pan, heat the oil and fry the rice balls until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the rice balls are cooked, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara or ranch, and enjoy the deliciousness!
In conclusion, this Italian rice balls recipe with meat and peas is a must-try for any food lover. With its crispy exterior, flavorful filling, and endless variations, it's no wonder arancini is a beloved dish in Italy and around the world. So gather your ingredients and start cooking up these tasty rice balls for your next meal. Buon appetito!