Chef Soraya Plant-based Arancini Recipe

Craving Italian but sick of pasta? We have a recipe for you! Arancini are a traditional Italian recipe made with balls of rice which are normally stuffed with cheese and meat, rolled in breadcrumbs, and deep fried. The traditional version of arancini is totally great! But if you’re looking for something quick, bite-sized, and plant-based, our Chef Soraya version is perfect for you. With a variety of combinations, you can make flavor-filled, fast arancini for a fun snack anytime of the week!

STEP 1

It's easier to make these rice balls with cold or room temperature rice and beans so, make your Chef Soraya bowls, put them into the fridge to cool, and go run and errand, or clean the kitchen! You could even rehydrate your Chef Soraya bowls at night so that it’s ready to use in the morning. Keep in mind that 2 Chef Soraya bowls will make one dozen arancini balls. We chose the Red Beans and Rice Creole flavor for our arancini but any Chef Soraya Bowl will work!

STEP 2

Divide your rehydrated Chef Soraya bowl in half. Make sure the rice and beans are fully rehydrated. Excess liquid will hinder the ability of the balls to stay together. With half of the rice and beans, smash with a fork or potato masher. You could even use a food processor if you have one on hand. This will make a paste that will help hold everything together. Next, you’ll add the other half of the rice and beans. By saving half the beans from being pureed, it adds substance and texture to the balls. Mix the rice and beans with the rice and bean puree.

STEP 3

Now form one inch balls with your hands. On a lined baking sheet, place your finished arancini with a little space between each. Bake the balls at 450 degrees  F for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them and pull them out when they’re beginning to brown.

The Best Part 

That’s all! Now you have an array of flavorful arancini with unique character and flavor to share with friends! These rice balls can be served in a number of ways. The easiest way to enjoy them is to serve them as a bite-sized snack. Maybe include a little dipping sauce like ranch or chipotle dressing. You could even try them out in a lettuce wrap! Add  veggies and toppings and eat them like a falafel sandwich in a pita, or,  easily substitute these arancini balls for your favorite meatless meatballs. However you enjoy them, know that you're eating 100% clean-bean protein to keep you fueled.