Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsMarcello's PizzeriaArancini Con Pomodoro Recipe

Arancini Con Pomodoro Recipe

Time1h 30m
Serves4

Sicilian style saffron risotto balls stuffed with San Marzano meat sauce, peas and mozzarella cheese

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Ingredients

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For the Risotto

Method

For the Risotto

  1. 1

    Prepare the broth

    In a saucepan, heat the chicken or vegetable broth until simmering. Add the saffron threads and let steep.

  2. 2

    Cook the onion and garlic

    In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

  3. 3

    Toast the rice

    Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and toast for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently until the rice is lightly translucent.

  4. 4

    Add broth gradually

    Begin adding the warm broth to the rice, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding the next ladle. Continue this process until the rice is al dente and creamy, about 18-20 minutes.

  5. 5

    Finish the risotto

    Remove the risotto from heat, stir in grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper to taste. Spread the risotto on a baking sheet to cool completely.

For the Filling

  1. 6

    Prepare the filling

    In a bowl, mix the San Marzano meat sauce, frozen peas, and cubed mozzarella cheese until well combined. Set aside.

For Assembling the Arancini

  1. 7

    Form the risotto balls

    Once the risotto is cool, take a handful of risotto and flatten it in your palm. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center and mold the risotto around it to form a ball. Repeat until all the risotto and filling are used.

  2. 8

    Prepare for frying

    Set up a breading station with three bowls: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for breadcrumbs. Roll each risotto ball first in flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.

  3. 9

    Fry the arancini

    In a large pot or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the arancini in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes each. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Serving

  1. 10

    Serve hot

    Serve the arancini warm, drizzled with additional meat sauce if desired. Enjoy your delicious Arancini con Pomodoro!

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