Air Fryer Risotto Balls and Air Fryer Arancini Balls
Air Fryer Arancini Balls are a delicious and healthier take on the classic Italian rice balls. Traditionally deep-fried, these arancini are cooked in an air fryer, resulting in a crispy exterior with significantly less oil. The core is filled with creamy risotto, often mixed with mozzarella or other cheeses, and sometimes peas or meat. The air frying process ensures they are golden and crunchy on the outside while maintaining a tender, flavorful inside, making them a perfect appetizer or snack.
Equipment
- Air fryer
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Fork
- Parchment paper
- Cooking spray
Ingredients
For the Risotto
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Arancini Balls
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- Cooking spray
Instructions
Prepare the Risotto
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, ensuring each grain is coated with butter.
- Pour in the white wine and cook until it's mostly evaporated.
- Add the broth, one cup at a time, stirring constantly until the liquid is absorbed before adding more.
- Continue this process until the rice is creamy and al dente (about 20 minutes).
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Spread the risotto on a baking sheet to cool completely (about 20 minutes).
Form the Arancini Balls
- Once the risotto is cool, take a small handful and flatten it in your palm.
- Place a cube of mozzarella cheese in the center, then mold the risotto around the cheese to form a ball.
- Repeat with the remaining risotto and cheese.
- Roll each ball first in flour, then in the beaten eggs, and finally in breadcrumbs, ensuring they are fully coated.
Air Fry the Arancini Balls
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Place the arancini balls in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch each other. You may need to cook them in batches.
- Lightly spray the arancini with cooking spray.Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Serve
- Serve the arancini balls hot, with marinara sauce for dipping if desired.
Notes
Tips
- You can add other fillings like peas, ham, or mushrooms to the risotto before forming the balls for extra flavor.
- Ensure the risotto is completely cool before forming the balls to help them hold their shape better.
- For extra crispiness, you can double coat the arancini by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.