Jul 14 2026
Restaurants›Gaslamp›Arancini Recipe

Arancini Recipe

Inspired by Gaslamp
Time1h
Serves4

Crispy risotto balls with marinara sauce

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Ingredients

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Risotto Base

Filling

Frying

Marinara Sauce

Method

Risotto Base Preparation

  1. 1

    Cook the Aromatics

    In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

  2. 2

    Toast the Rice

    Add the Arborio rice to the saucepan, stirring to coat the grains in the butter. Cook for about 2 minutes until the rice is slightly translucent around the edges.

  3. 3

    Add Wine and Broth

    Pour in the white wine and cook, stirring frequently, until the liquid is mostly absorbed. Gradually add the chicken or vegetable broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously until each cup is absorbed before adding the next, about 20 minutes total.

  4. 4

    Finish the Risotto

    Once the rice is creamy and al dente, remove from heat. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Let the risotto cool completely.

Forming the Arancini

  1. 5

    Prepare the Filling

    Once the risotto has cooled, take about 2 tablespoons of risotto in your hand and flatten it. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center and mold the rice around it, shaping it into a ball. Repeat until all the risotto is used.

  2. 6

    Coat the Balls

    Roll each arancini ball in the beaten egg and then coat with breadcrumbs until fully covered. Set aside.

Frying

  1. 7

    Heat the Oil

    In a deep skillet or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).

  2. 8

    Fry the Arancini

    Carefully add a few arancini balls at a time to the hot oil. Fry until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Marinara Sauce Preparation

  1. 9

    Cook the Sauce

    In a saucepan over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Let simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  2. 10

    Finish the Sauce

    Stir in the chopped basil just before serving.

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