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Lemon and Thyme Arancini

26/11/2023

Lemon and Thyme Arancini are a fragrant and fresh variation of the classic Sicilian arancini. Here is the recipe to prepare them.

Ingredients

  • 300 g of risotto rice (such as Arborio or Carnaroli)
  • 1 liter of vegetable broth
  • 100 g of grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 eggs
  • Grated zest of 2 organic lemons
  • A bunch of fresh thyme
  • 100 g of mozzarella or another stringy cheese, cut into cubes
  • Flour, as needed
  • Breadcrumbs, as needed
  • Oil for frying, as needed
  • Salt and pepper, as needed

Preparation

  1. Start by preparing the risotto. In a pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil and keep it warm on low heat.
  2. In another pot, toast the rice without any fats until it becomes translucent. Then, start adding the hot broth, one ladle at a time, waiting for the rice to absorb the liquid before adding more.
  3. Halfway through cooking, add the grated lemon zest and some of the chopped thyme (keep some thyme aside for the breadcrumbs). Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Continue cooking until the rice is al dente and the risotto is well creamed. Remove from the fire and let cool slightly.
  5. Stir in the Parmesan and one egg, mixing well.
  6. Once the risotto has cooled, begin forming the arancini by taking some of the rice, placing a cube of mozzarella in the center, and shaping the rice into a round or oval shape, according to your preferences.
  7. Dip each arancini first in flour, then in the beaten egg, and finally in the breadcrumbs mixed with a little chopped thyme, making sure to evenly coat each arancino.
  8. In a pan, heat plenty of oil for frying and, once the right temperature is reached, fry the arancini until they are golden and crisp.
  9. Drain the arancini on paper towels to remove excess oil.
  10. Serve the lemon and thyme arancini hot or warm.

Curiosity

These arancini, with their citrusy touch and aroma of aromatic herbs, are perfect for an aperitif or a summer lunch. The lemon adds a freshness that balances the comforting pleasure of fried risotto, making this dish a delicious way to experiment with traditional Sicilian flavors. Enjoy your meal!