Arancini

Ingredients

Risotto

1L (4 cups) salt-reduced chicken stock

Large pinch saffron threads

1 tablespoon olive oil

40g butter

1 brown onion, finely chopped

2 garlic cloves, crushed

330g (1 1/2 cups) SunRice Arborio Risotto rice

125ml (1/2 cup) dry white wine

40g (1/2 cup) shredded parmesan

Arancini

115g (1 1/4 cups) dried (packaged) breadcrumbs

75g (1/2 cup) plain flour

2 eggs

100g fresh mozzarella, cut into 2cm pieces

Vegetable oil, to deep fry

Method

Step 1

First make the risotto: Bring the stock and saffron just to the boil in a medium saucepan over high heat. Reduce heat and hold at a gentle simmer.

Step 2

Heat oil and half the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook the onion and garlic, stirring, for 5 minutes until soft and translucent.

Step 3

Add the rice and stir for 2-3 minutes or until the grains appear slightly glassy. Toasting the grains ensures the rice cooks evenly.

Step 4

Add the wine and stir until the liquid is absorbed. Add 1 ladleful (125ml/1/2 cup) of stock and stir until the liquid is absorbed.

Step 5

Continue, 1 ladleful at a time, for 20 minutes until rice is tender yet firm. Remove from heat. Stir in parmesan and remaining butter. Season.

Step 6

Spread the risotto onto a lined tray with sides. Cool slightly. Cover with plastic wrap and place in the fridge overnight to chill completely.

Step 7

To make the arancini: Place the breadcrumbs on a tray. Place the flour on a plate. Crack the eggs into a bowl and use a fork to lightly whisk.

Step 8

Use wet hands to shape 1/3 cup of the risotto into a ball. Press your thumb into the centre of the ball to make an indent.

Step 9

Place a piece of mozzarella in the indent, then mould risotto around the mozzarella to enclose. Repeat to make 12 balls.

Step 10

Place the risotto ball on a chopping board and roll ball with both hands, moulding it into a conical shape. Repeat with the remaining balls.

Step 11

Roll in flour and shake off excess. Dip in egg, then in breadcrumbs, pressing to coat. Place on a baking tray in the fridge for 30 minutes to chill.

Step 12

Heat oil to 170°C in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Cook arancini, in batches, turning, for 6-8 minutes or until golden. Drain on paper towel.

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