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Arancini with artichoke risotto and pecorino

26/11/2023

Arancini with artichoke risotto and pecorino are a delicious and tasty variation on the classic Sicilian arancino. Here is the recipe:

Ingredients

  • 300 g of risotto rice (such as Arborio or Carnaroli)
  • 500 g of fresh artichokes or canned artichoke hearts
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 50 g of butter
  • 100 g of grated Pecorino Romano
  • 1 liter of vegetable broth
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the breading:
    • Flour as needed
    • 2 eggs
    • Breadcrumbs as needed
  • Oil for frying

Preparation

  1. Start by preparing the risotto: in a large pan, sauté the chopped onion with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil until it becomes translucent.
  2. Add the rice and toast it for a few minutes until it becomes slightly translucent.
  3. Deglaze with a little white wine and let it evaporate.
  4. Meanwhile, clean the artichokes by removing the tougher outer leaves and slicing them into thin wedges, or drain the canned artichoke hearts and cut them into pieces.
  5. Add the artichokes to the rice and begin to add the hot broth a little at a time, waiting for the liquid to be absorbed before adding the next ladle.
  6. Cook the risotto, stirring frequently, for about 18 minutes or until the rice is al dente.
  7. Remove from the heat, add the butter and grated pecorino, and mix well until the risotto becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
  8. Let the risotto cool on a tray and, once cool, put it in the fridge for at least an hour.
  9. Prepare three deep plates with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.
  10. Take some of the cooled risotto and form balls the size of a small orange, first coat them in flour, then in egg, and finally in breadcrumbs, making sure they are well covered.
  11. Heat plenty of oil in a deep fryer, and when it reaches a temperature of 170-180 °C, fry the arancini until they are golden and crispy.
  12. Drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Finally, serve them hot.

Curiosity

Arancini are a traditional Sicilian dish and can be filled with different ingredients. The name “arancini” comes from their golden color and round shape that resembles that of small oranges. They are a dish suitable to be consumed as street food or as an appetizer on special occasions. The artichoke and pecorino risotto is a more refined variant that can surprise your guests with its unique and strong flavor!