Carbonara Arancini Recipe

If you love both carbonara and arancini, then this Carbonara Arancini recipe is the ultimate fusion dish you need to try. Imagine creamy, cheesy carbonara risotto rolled into crispy, golden balls—it’s the perfect appetizer, snack, or party dish! This recipe combines the best of two beloved Italian classics into bite-sized perfection. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself, these arancini will wow everyone at the table.

How to Make Carbonara Arancini

Making Carbonara Arancini is a labor of love, but the results are worth every bite! Start by preparing a rich carbonara risotto, letting it cool, and then shaping it into balls. Coat the balls with breadcrumbs, fry them until golden, and serve hot. Let’s dive into the details!

Ingredients for Carbonara Arancini Recipe

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious Carbonara Arancini recipe:

For the Risotto:

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock (warm)
• 3 egg yolks
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 ounces pancetta or guanciale, diced
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Arancini Coating:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular, seasoned with salt and pepper)
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Carbonara Risotto

1. Cook the Pancetta (or Guanciale):
   Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced pancetta and cook until crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
   In the same pan, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and translucent.
3. Cook the Rice:
   Stir in the Arborio rice and toast for 1-2 minutes until slightly translucent.
4. Add Stock Gradually:
   Begin adding the warm stock, one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Wait until the liquid is absorbed before adding more stock. Continue this process until the rice is creamy and cooked al dente (about 18-20 minutes).
5. Finish with Carbonara Flavors:
   Remove the pan from heat. Quickly stir in the egg yolks, grated Parmesan, and cooked pancetta. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Let the risotto cool completely.

Step 2: Shape and Coat the Arancini

1. Shape the Balls:
   Once the risotto has cooled, take 2 tablespoons of risotto and roll it into a ball. Repeat until all the risotto is used.
2. Coat the Arancini:
   Roll each ball in flour, dip it in beaten eggs, and coat it with breadcrumbs. Ensure an even coating for a crispy texture.

Step 3: Fry the Arancini

1. Heat the Oil:
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry Until Golden:
   Fry the arancini in batches, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Drain and Serve:
   Remove onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot!

Tips for Making the Perfect Carbonara Arancini

• Chill the Risotto: Ensure the risotto is completely cool before shaping. Refrigerating it for an hour helps it firm up.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh Parmesan and pancetta to enhance flavor.
• Season the Breadcrumbs: Adding a pinch of salt, pepper, and even garlic powder to the breadcrumbs can elevate the coating.
• Test Oil Temperature: Too hot, and the arancini will burn. Too cool, and they’ll soak up oil. Use a thermometer for accuracy.

What to Serve with Carbonara Arancini

• Dipping Sauces: Try marinara, garlic aioli, or spicy mayo.
• Salads: A fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully.
• Drinks: Serve with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a sparkling Prosecco.

Ingredient Substitutes for Carbonara Arancini

• Pancetta Substitute: Use bacon or turkey bacon if pancetta isn’t available.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the pancetta and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.

Final Thoughts

This Carbonara Arancini recipe is a delightful twist on traditional arancini, offering a creamy, cheesy core wrapped in a crispy shell. With its rich carbonara flavors, it’s the perfect dish to impress guests or indulge in at home. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!