Ingredients

vegetable oil , for deep-frying
2 eggs
2 cups risotto rice ( I made mine a day before with porcini and shitake mushrooms and spinach , no parmesan added )
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs ( dried Japanese breadcrumbs )
2 ounces mozzarella cheese , cut into 1/2-inch cubes
salt & freshly ground black pepper , to taste
1 small garlic clove , peeled
3/4 cup packed fresh parsley leaves , plus more for garnish
3/4 cup packed basil leaves
1/4 cup packed mint leaf
2 small anchovy fillets , drained
4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
4 tablespoons sour cream
fresh ground black pepper , to taste
Arancini, or Italian fried rice balls, are a popular appetizer that originated in Sicily. This delicious dish is made by rolling cooked and cooled risotto rice into balls that are stuffed with cheese, breaded, and then deep-fried to perfection. The green goddess dressing is a classic accompaniment to this dish that is loaded with fresh herbs and a creamy texture. This appetizer is perfect for your next party or event and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser for everyone.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2.Heat the vegetable oil in a large deep pan to 375°F.
3.Beat the eggs in a shallow bowl.
4.Combine the cooled risotto rice, grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and salt and black pepper in a large mixing bowl.
5.Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to form a golf ball-sized ball of the rice mixture.
6.Form a small well in the center of the rice ball, and insert a cube of mozzarella cheese.
7.Close up the well with additional rice, sealing the cheese inside.
8.Dip the rice ball in the beaten eggs, and then roll in more panko breadcrumbs.
9.Carefully add the coated ball to the hot oil, turning occasionally until golden brown.
10.Remove the golden brown balls from the oil and drain on paper towels.
11.In a food processor, pulse the garlic, parsley, basil, mint, anchovy fillets, olive oil, red wine vinegar, sour cream, and black pepper until combined.
12.Serve the hot Arancini with the Green Goddess dressing on top or on the side.

PROS

This dish is an excellent appetizer that is crunchy on the outside and warm and gooey on the inside.

The Green Goddess Dressing adds a delicious, herbaceous note that complements the flavors of the Arancini perfectly.

CONS

The Arancini is a deep-fried dish that is high in calories and fat.

Enjoy it as part of a balanced diet in moderation.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While this dish is not particularly healthy, it is a delightful treat to be enjoyed in moderation.
The fresh herbs in the Green Goddess dressing can provide vitamins and minerals, and the Arancini can provide fiber and a satisfyingly crunchy texture.

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