Il Cucinologo
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Arancini with Hummus and Grilled Vegetables

26/11/2023

Arancini are a Sicilian specialty, known for being stuffed rice croquettes. In the version you asked me for, we will make vegetarian arancini with a filling based on hummus and grilled vegetables. It will be a nice combination of Mediterranean flavors and Italian tradition.

Ingredients

  • 300 g risotto rice (Arborio, Carnaroli or Vialone Nano)
  • 1 liter vegetable broth
  • 100 g grated Parmesan
  • 1 small onion
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 200 g hummus (ready-made or homemade)
  • 1 zucchini
  • 1 small eggplant
  • 1 red bell pepper
  • Breadcrumbs to taste
  • 2 eggs
  • Flour to taste for breading

Preparation

  1. Start with the rice preparation: sauté the chopped onion in a little extra virgin olive oil, add the rice and toast it for a few minutes. Then gradually add the hot vegetable broth, cooking the rice until you get a creamy and al dente consistency. Add the Parmesan, adjust salt and pepper and let cool completely.
  2. Meanwhile, cut the vegetables (zucchini, eggplant and bell pepper) into slices or cubes and grill them until they are soft and slightly charred. You can season the vegetables with a drizzle of oil, salt and pepper.
  3. When the rice has cooled, take a portion of rice and flatten it on your hand. Place a spoonful of hummus and some pieces of grilled vegetables in the center, then close with more rice, forming a sphere or a cone (depending on the tradition and your preference).
  4. Pass the arancino first in the flour, then in the beaten egg and finally in the breadcrumbs.
  5. Heat plenty of oil in a pan and fry the arancini until they are golden and crispy on all sides.
  6. Drain the arancini on paper towels and serve hot.

Trivia

The word “arancino”, which in Sicilian is masculine, derives from the shape and color that recall those of a small orange. In some parts of Sicily they are called “arancine”, switching to feminine. They are a versatile dish that can be stuffed in many ways, but this interpretation with hummus and grilled vegetables is certainly an example of how tradition can meet new and modern flavors.

If you wish, I can also recommend a wine or a cocktail to pair with this dish.