Classic Sicilian Arancini Recipe

Ingredients (24)

• 10 1/2 ounces short-grain rice, such as Vialone Nano, Carnaroli, or Arborio
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed saffron
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
• 4 teaspoons unsalted butter
• Fine sea salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/3 cup finely chopped yellow onion, from about 1/2 small onion
• 3 tablespoons finely chopped carrot
• 3 tablespoons finely chopped celery
• 3 ounces ground beef
• 3 ounces ground pork
• 2 tablespoons dry red wine
• 2 teaspoons tomato paste
• 1 cup tomato puree
• 1/3 cup green peas, fresh or frozen
• 4.4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, diced, optional (leave out for a lighter, less-cheesy arancino)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 pinch salt
• 2 cups breadcrumbs
• 2 inches vegetable oil, for frying