Pumpkin and mozzarella arancini

Savor the delightful flavors of Pumpkin and Mozzarella Arancini with this easy-to-follow recipe. Featuring creamy pumpkin, gooey mozzarella, and a crispy breadcrumb coating, these bite-sized rice balls make the perfect appetizer or snack. Get ready to impress your guests with this unique and delicious Italian-inspired treat!

  • 23 Apr 2025
  • Cook time 20 min
  • Prep time 20 min
  • 20 Servings
  • 11 Ingredients

Pumpkin and mozzarella arancini

Pumpkin and mozzarella arancini are delicious, golden-brown rice balls stuffed with creamy cheese and savory pumpkin. This Italian-inspired dish is a delightful appetizer or a hearty snack that can bring a touch of gourmet to any meal. Combining rich flavors and a crunchy exterior, these arancini are sure to become a household favorite.

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil
14g
1 onion
110g
2 garlic cloves
6g
1 cup white rice
230g
3 cups chicken gravy
600g
1 cup pumpkin
120g
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
27g
1/3 cup mozzarella cheese
33g
1 cup all-purpose white wheat flour
120g
3 eggs
150g
2 cups bread crumbs
180g

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Risotto Base:
- Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until it becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Stir in the white rice and cook for 2-3 minutes to toast the rice slightly.
2. Cook the Rice:
- Gradually add the chicken gravy, one cup at a time, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid before adding more.
- Stir continuously to ensure the rice cooks evenly and doesn't stick to the bottom of the pan.
- Once all the gravy has been absorbed and the rice is tender (this should take around 18-20 minutes), remove the pan from the heat.
3. Add Pumpkin and Parmesan:
- Stir in the cooked and mashed pumpkin until evenly combined.
- Add the grated parmesan cheese and mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Allow the mixture to cool completely. You can spread it out on a baking sheet to speed up the cooling process.
4. Form the Arancini:
- Once the risotto has cooled, take a small handful (about 2 tablespoons) of the mixture and flatten it slightly in your palm.
- Place a small cube of mozzarella cheese in the center and shape the rice mixture around it to form a ball.
- Repeat with the remaining risotto and mozzarella.
5. Prepare for Frying:
- Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with the flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with the bread crumbs.
- Roll each ball first in the flour, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it thoroughly with the bread crumbs. Press gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well.
6. Fry the Arancini:
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large, heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the arancini in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot.
- Cook for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried arancini to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Serve:
- Serve the arancini hot, with your favorite dipping sauce if desired. Enjoy!

Tips:

- Use chilled, cooked rice for the best texture and easier shaping.

- When forming the arancini, wet your hands slightly to prevent the mixture from sticking.

- Ensure the oil is at the right temperature (around 350°F or 175°C) before frying to achieve a crispy exterior without an oily taste.

- Try not to overcrowd the frying pot to maintain a consistent oil temperature.

- Drain the fried arancini on paper towels to remove excess oil and keep them crisp.

Pumpkin and mozzarella arancini are a treat that bring together the creamy taste of mozzarella and the sweet, earthy tones of pumpkin in a crunchy, golden-brown coating. Perfect for any occasion, these delightful rice balls are sure to impress guests and satisfy your taste buds. Happy cooking!

Nutrition Facts
Serving Size80 grams
Energy
Calories 140kcal7%
Protein
Protein 4.88g3%
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates 24g7%
Fiber 0.91g2%
Sugar 1.20g1%
Fat
Fat 3.53g4%
Saturated 1.05g4%
Cholesterol 33mg-
Vitamins
Vitamin A 44ug5%
Choline 30mg6%
Vitamin B1 0.19mg16%
Vitamin B2 0.11mg8%
Vitamin B3 1.31mg8%
Vitamin B6 0.06mg4%
Vitamin B9 45ug11%
Vitamin B12 0.14ug6%
Vitamin C 1.02mg1%
Vitamin E 0.21mg1%
Vitamin K 0.97ug1%
Minerals
Calcium, Ca 55mg4%
Copper, Cu 0.08mg9%
Iron, Fe 1.23mg11%
Magnesium, Mg 13mg3%
Phosphorus, P 80mg6%
Potassium, K 100mg3%
Selenium, Se 8ug15%
Sodium, Na 220mg14%
Zinc, Zn 0.59mg5%
Water
Water 45g-
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

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