Spicy Nduja and Smoked Scamorza Arancini

Spicy Nduja and Smoked Scamorza Arancini

Classic DishArancini

Prep: 35 min • Cook: 10 min. A fiery twist on the classic arancini. These delightful fried rice balls are generously filled with spicy Calabrian 'nduja sausage and creamy smoked 'scamorza cheese for a bold and unforgettable flavor explosion.

Preparation time
35 min
Cooking time
10 min
Total time
45 min
Servings
16

Instructions

Prepare the Arancini Mixture

  1. 1In a large bowl, combine the cooled risotto, egg yolks, grated parmesan cheese, melted butter, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2Mix thoroughly until well combined. The mixture should hold together when pressed.

Assemble the Arancini

  1. 1Take a portion of the risotto mixture (about 1/4 cup) and flatten it in your palm.
  2. 2Place a small amount of chopped nduja sausage, a cube of smoked scamorza, a tiny bit of tomato paste, and a pinch of chili flakes in the center.
  3. 3Carefully enclose the filling with the risotto mixture, shaping it into a compact ball or cone, ensuring the filling is completely sealed inside.
  4. 4Repeat with the remaining risotto mixture and filling ingredients.

Coat and Chill

  1. 1Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
  2. 2Roll each arancini ball first in flour, then dip in beaten egg, ensuring it's fully coated, and finally roll in breadcrumbs until evenly coated.
  3. 3Place the coated arancini on a tray lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up. This prevents them from falling apart during frying.

Fry the Arancini

  1. 1Heat about 3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot or deep fryer to 175°C (350°F).
  2. 2Carefully fry the arancini in batches, without overcrowding the pot, for about 4-6 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through.
  3. 3Use a slotted spoon to remove the arancini from the hot oil and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Nutrition Information

Calories
281 kcal
Protein
10 g
Fat
16 g
Carbs
25 g
NutrientPer serving
Calories281 kcal
Protein10 g
Fat16 g
Carbs25 g

Tips

  • Ensure your risotto is completely cooled before forming the arancini to make them easier to handle and shape.
  • Maintain the oil temperature between 170-180°C (340-355°F) for perfectly golden and crispy arancini.
  • Serve these spicy arancini hot, perhaps with a side of marinara sauce or a dollop of arrabiata for extra heat.

By Chef Michael Ilin