I fell in love with Arancini the first time I visited Sicily (specifically the Aeolian Island). I still remember the taste of that first Arancino Bianco melting in my mouth, as I lay on the beach after a typical late wine-infused night in the islands. The salt water was still on my lips as I bit into the crispy and lightly greasy outer layer, tasting the warm soft creamy cheese and bits of ham filling my mouth. I was wide eyed and wanting more, and I have been hooked ever since!
Originating in Sicily in the 10th century, Arancini are fried rice balls usually filled with ragù (meat sauce), tomato sauce, mozzarella, and peas. They are then coated with a light, crispy batter. The name is derived from the Italian translation of orange (Arancia) based on the food’s round shape and orange color.
Arancini are a typical dish throughout Sicily; but in some cities like the city of Messina (the third largest city on the island of Sicily), the arancini are usually prepared in a conic form instead of the round form seen in other areas of Sicily.
Arancini rice is flavored and colored with saffron, a prominent ingredient in medieval Arab cuisine. The use of saffron goes back to ancient Greece and Spain, and it is used in almost every culture today.
Rice balls are said to be the golden jewel in the crown of Sicilian cuisine, and they are available in many international locations and prepared in many different ways. For example, if you are in Rome, expect the rice ball to be filled with cheese. In Naples, rice balls are commonly made with cheese and onions and are referred to as Pall’e Riso. I love them all, but my favorite is a perfect round Arancino Bianco.
If you are looking to try out Arancini but don’t have any Italian travel plans in your future (and you live in the New York area), I would recommend satisfying your curiosity at Arancini Bros. in Brooklyn, New York. Their varieties change every day and include seafood, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options or if you’re feeling brave, try to create your own Arancini. Buon appetito!
