Air Fryer Arancini
Discover the irresistible charm of air fryer arancini, delightful fried rice balls that are bursting with flavor. These golden bites are perfect as a savory appetizer or a satisfying meal, easily paired with your choice of dipping sauces like pesto or marinara.
Crafted with a blend of cooked rice, creamy mozzarella, and aromatic Italian spices, each arancini offers a unique textural contrast between the crispy exterior and the gooey center. A touch of Parmesan cheese elevates their flavor, making them a must-try for any gathering.
Effortlessly prepared in an air fryer, these arancini require less oil than traditional frying, ensuring a guilt-free indulgence. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen.
Air Fryer Arancini Ingredients
Elevate your air fryer arancini with a harmonious blend of ingredients. The rich creaminess of melted mozzarella creates a delightful surprise in every bite, while the nutty notes of Parmesan cheese lend depth and umami.
The cooked rice serves as a sturdy foundation, providing the perfect canvas for flavor absorption. A hint of melted butter brings richness, ensuring each arancini is decadently moist.
The panko breadcrumbs deliver an irresistible crunch, while a touch of Italian seasoning infuses aromatic herbs that capture the essence of Italian cuisine. Together, these ingredients create a symphony of flavors and textures that make these arancini truly unforgettable.
Air Fryer Arancini: Tips, Serving Suggestions, and FAQ
Recipe Tips
- Chill the Mixture: Allowing the rice and cheese mixture to chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes is crucial. This helps the flavors meld together and makes the mixture easier to handle, ensuring that your arancini maintain their shape during cooking.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh mozzarella cheese and high-quality Parmesan. Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully, adding a gooey, indulgent center to your arancini. Aged Parmesan brings a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Every air fryer is slightly different, so keep an eye on your arancini as they cook. If they are not golden brown after the suggested cooking time, add a minute or two, but be careful not to overcook them, as they can become dry.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Arancini
Pair your air fryer arancini with a variety of delicious accompaniments to create a well-rounded meal. For a classic pairing, serve them with a vibrant marinara sauce, which adds a tangy contrast to the richness of the arancini. Alternatively, a fresh basil pesto offers a herby, creamy option that complements the flavors beautifully.
For a heartier experience, consider pairing your arancini with a simple salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. The crisp freshness of the salad provides a delightful balance to the warm, crispy arancini, making for a satisfying dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or main course.
FAQ
1. Can I use leftover rice for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rice works perfectly in this recipe and can save you time in the kitchen. Just ensure it’s well-cooked and cooled before mixing it with the other ingredients.
2. Can I bake these arancini instead of using an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C) and place the arancini on a baking sheet. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through.
3. What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can substitute regular breadcrumbs. For an alternative, crushed cornflakes or crushed crackers also work well, providing a similar crunch.
4. How do I store leftover arancini?
Store any leftover arancini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, pop them back into the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Air Fryer Arancini
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups cooked rice
- 3 large eggs divided
- ⅓ cup melted butter
- ⅔ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon Highlands Italian cheese sprinkle optional
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese cubed
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Nonstick cooking spray
- A pinch of salt
- A pinch of ground black pepper
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, lightly beat two of the eggs. Incorporate the cooked rice, grated Parmesan cheese, melted butter, optional cheese sprinkle, half a teaspoon of salt, and a quarter teaspoon of black pepper. Mix the ingredients thoroughly, then cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for 20 minutes.
- Preheat your air fryer to 370 degrees Fahrenheit (187 degrees Celsius) as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Form the rice mixture into balls, each approximately 1 ½ inches in diameter. Create a small indentation in each ball and insert a cube of mozzarella cheese, then reshape the ball to enclose the cheese.
- In a shallow dish, combine the panko bread crumbs, Italian seasoning, and remaining salt and pepper. In a separate bowl, lightly beat the remaining egg. Dip each rice ball first into the beaten egg and then roll it in the bread crumb mixture to coat evenly. Arrange the coated balls in the air fryer basket and lightly spray them with cooking spray.
- Cook the arancini in the preheated air fryer for 6 minutes. After this initial cooking time, increase the temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) and air fry for an additional 3 minutes, or until the balls are golden brown and crispy.
