To begin, gather your ingredients. You will need 2 cups of cooked rice, 1/2 cup of gorgonzola cheese crumbles, 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, 1/4 cup of grated parmesan cheese, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, 2 eggs, 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and vegetable oil for frying.
Start by mixing the cooked rice, gorgonzola cheese, chopped walnuts, grated parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh parsley in a large mixing bowl. Once the ingredients are thoroughly combined, divide the mixture into small balls, roughly the size of a golf ball.
In a separate mixing bowl, beat the two eggs together. In another separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Then, in a third bowl, add the breadcrumbs.
Roll each ball first in the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, and finally the breadcrumbs, making sure to coat the entire ball thoroughly. Repeat this process for each ball.
In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the rice balls, a few at a time. Fry for approximately 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the arancini are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Once the arancini are cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towel to absorb any excess oil. Serve hot and with your favorite dipping sauce or marinara sauce.
The combination of the sharp and creamy gorgonzola cheese, the nutty flavor of the walnuts, and the crispy texture of the breadcrumbs make for a delectable treat that is perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or even a main course. The arancini can also be made in advance and then reheated in the oven or microwave, making them an easy and convenient option for entertaining or just a cozy night in.
In conclusion, rice arancini with gorgonzola cheese and walnuts is an appetizing and sophisticated dish that is sure to impress any crowd. So next time you’re looking to add some flair to your Italian cuisine, give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed.