Il Cucinologo
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Lemon and Thyme Arancini

26/11/2023

Lemon and thyme arancini are a fragrant and fresh variation of classic Sicilian arancini. Here is the recipe to prepare them.

Ingredients

  • 300 g risotto rice (such as Arborio or Carnaroli)
  • 1 liter vegetable broth
  • 100 g grated Parmesan
  • 2 eggs
  • Grated zest of 2 organic lemons
  • A bunch of fresh thyme
  • 100 g mozzarella or other melting cheese, cut into cubes
  • Flour, as needed
  • Breadcrumbs, as needed
  • Oil for frying, as needed
  • Salt and pepper, as needed

Preparation

  1. Start by preparing the risotto. In a pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil and keep it warm over low heat.
  2. In another pot, toast the rice without any fat until it becomes translucent. Then begin adding the hot broth, one ladle at a time, waiting for the rice to absorb the liquid before adding more.
  3. Halfway through cooking, add the grated lemon zest and some of the chopped thyme (set aside a little thyme for the coating). Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Continue cooking until the rice is al dente and the risotto is well creamed. Remove from the heat and let it cool slightly.
  5. Stir in the Parmesan and one egg, mixing well.
  6. Once the risotto is cold, start shaping the arancini by taking some rice, placing a cube of mozzarella in the center, and molding the rice into a round or oval shape, according to your preference.
  7. Coat each arancino first in flour, then in the beaten egg, and finally in breadcrumbs mixed with a little chopped thyme, making sure to cover each arancino evenly.
  8. In a pan, heat plenty of oil for frying and, once it reaches the right temperature, fry the arancini until golden and crispy.
  9. Drain the arancini on paper towels to remove excess oil.
  10. Serve the lemon and thyme arancini hot or warm.

Curiosities

These arancini, with their citrusy touch and aromatic herb fragrance, are perfect for an aperitivo or a summer lunch. The lemon adds a freshness that balances the comforting pleasure of fried risotto, making this dish a delicious way to experiment with traditional Sicilian flavors. Buon appetito!