Description
Golden, crispy, and sweet, these Traditional Italian Rice Fritters are a delightful dessert with a creamy interior. Infused with citrus zest, plump currants, and a touch of rum, they’re the perfect treat for special occasions or a nostalgic taste of Italy.
Ingredients
Scale
- ½ cup Arborio rice
- 17 oz milk
- ⅓ cup sugar
- Grated rind of 1 lemon
- Grated rind of 1 orange
- ¼ cup currants
- 2 tablespoons rum
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 egg whites
- ½ cup flour (or gluten-free flour substitute)
- Light olive oil (organic, as needed for frying)
- ½ cup sugar (for coating the fritters)
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the Arborio rice, milk, sugar, and citrus rinds. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the rice absorbs most of the milk and becomes creamy (about 20 minutes). Let it cool completely.
- Prepare the Add-ins: While the rice cools, soak the currants in rum for 10 minutes to plump them. Drain any excess rum and set aside.
- Mix the Batter: Add the egg yolks and flour to the cooled rice mixture, stirring until fully combined. Fold in the soaked currants.
- Whip the Egg Whites: In a separate bowl, whip the egg whites to stiff peaks. Gently fold them into the rice mixture to create a light and airy batter.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep pan or fryer, heat enough olive oil to submerge the fritters (about 2 inches deep). The oil should reach a temperature of 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Fritters: Using two spoons, scoop small portions of the batter and carefully drop them into the hot oil. Fry in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown (about 3–4 minutes per fritter). Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
- Coat with Sugar: While still warm, roll the fritters in sugar to coat them generously.
- Serve: Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor. These fritters are delicious on their own or paired with a light dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Notes
- Advance Prep: The rice mixture can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated. Bring to room temperature before using.
- Alternative Add-ins: Swap currants with raisins, chopped dried apricots, or chocolate chips for a creative twist.
- Oil Tips: Use a thermometer to maintain the correct oil temperature for even frying.
- Reheating: Leftover fritters can be reheated in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired