Arancini, also known as rice balls, are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, main course, or snack. They are typically made with leftover risotto, which is formed into balls and then coated in breadcrumbs and fried. Spinach arancini are a variation on this classic dish, and they are packed with flavor and nutrients. The spinach adds a pop of color and a slightly bitter flavor that complements the creamy risotto. These arancini are also a great way to use up leftover spinach, and they can be made ahead of time and reheated when you're ready to serve them.
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SPINACH ARANCINI (RICE BALLS)
Make and share this Spinach Arancini (rice Balls) recipe from Food.com.
Provided by DeSouter
Categories Rice
Time 1h15m
Yield 20 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 16
Steps:
- In large, deep saucepan over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Add the onions and saute for about 1 minute. Add the garlic stir. After another 5 minutes, add the rice and white wine and a pinch of salt stir and allow to cook down for about 5 to 10 minutes.
- Add 2 (8-ounce) ladles of broth. Allow to absorb into rice for about 10 minutes, stirring, then add another 2 (8-ounce ladles) of broth and allow that to absorb for about 10 minutes.
- Season with freshly ground black pepper, to taste. Add spinach to broth and rice and stir in with sweet butter. Add 1 cup of the Parmigiano.
- When all ingredients are hot and mixed, pour and spread onto a parchment lined cookie sheet to cool. Once cool, cover with a layer of plastic wrap to avoid skin forming and refrigerate until completely cooled and firm. Refrigerate overnight if necessary.
- When completely cooled, cover rice and spinach with remaining 1/2 cup Parmigiano. With hands, roll into 1 1/2-inch balls. With fingers, make a small hole in the rice ball's center and insert 1 small cube of mozzarella, and cover with more rice.
- Place flour, beaten eggs, and seasoned bread crumbs in separate bowls. Coat each ball with flour, then with whisked egg, then with seasoned breadcrumbs. Repeat with all rice balls and lay the coated balls on a cookie tray and refrigerate until ready to fry.
- In a heavy large pan, heat vegetable oil to 350 degrees F.
- Fry the balls, in batches, until golden brown. Remove each ball with a slotted spoon and place on parchment paper or paper towel lined cookie sheet to dry. Serve hot.
SPINACH ARANCINI (RICE BALLS)
I used to live in Sicily, and these were a favorite of mine! 'Arancini' means 'Little Oranges' in Italian, named so because the little breaded rice balls resemble small oranges so much. While so many versions include only cheeses and meats, this version is a delightful combination of white cheese and spinach. We love it! This can be made the night or a couple of days ahead of time, and cooked at the last minute for a surprising treat for guests. I like to serve mine on a bed of fresh Radicchio. Some people enjoy dipping them into Marinara or sour cream based dips. Enjoy!
Provided by NM Dawn
Categories Appetizers and Snacks Cheese
Time 5h25m
Yield 10
Number Of Ingredients 16
Steps:
- Bring 4 cups chicken broth and saffron threads to a boil in a saucepan over high heat. Stir in Arborio rice, return to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender, yet still a little firm, about 16 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Stir in onion, and cook for one minute, then stir in garlic, and continue cooking until the onion has softened and turned translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in wine, spinach, and butter, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, and fold in cooked rice and Parmesan cheese; cook a few minutes until the mixture is a little stiff. Spread onto a baking sheet, and cool in the refrigerator until completely cold, 4 hours to overnight.
- Once the rice mixture has cooled, form the arancini by enclosing a cube of mozzarella cheese in about 3 tablespoons of the rice to form a 1 inch ball; set aside. When you have finished making the balls, place flour, eggs, and bread crumbs into separate, shallow bowls. One-by-one, gently roll the arancini in the flour to coat, then shake off excess. Dip into beaten egg, then roll in bread crumbs; set aside.
- Heat the oil in a deep-fryer or electric skillet to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Deep fry the arancini 5 or 6 at a time in the hot oil until golden brown, about 4 minutes. Be sure to roll the arancini around with a metal spoon as they cook so they are evenly browned on all sides. Drain on paper towels, and serve hot.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 611.7 calories, Carbohydrate 66.8 g, Cholesterol 71 mg, Fat 26.6 g, Fiber 2.6 g, Protein 20.5 g, SaturatedFat 8.4 g, Sodium 1281 mg, Sugar 3.1 g
Tips:
- Use medium-grain or short-grain rice for a creamier texture.
- Cook the rice al dente so that it holds its shape when formed into balls.
- Add plenty of flavor to the rice with sautéed onions, garlic, and herbs.
- Use fresh, finely chopped spinach for the best flavor and texture.
- Season the rice balls generously with salt and pepper.
- Use a light touch when forming the rice balls so that they don't fall apart.
- Coat the rice balls in breadcrumbs and fry them until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve the rice balls hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Conclusion:
Spinach arancini are a delicious and versatile appetizer or main course. They are easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences. With their creamy rice filling, crispy coating, and flavorful spinach, these rice balls are sure to be a hit at your next party or gathering. So next time you're looking for a unique and satisfying dish, give spinach arancini a try!
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