These Saffron Rice Arancini are a luxurious twist on the classic Italian snack. Made with creamy saffron-infused risotto, each arancini is filled with a gooey center of mozzarella cheese, then coated in golden breadcrumbs and fried to crispy perfection. These bites are perfect for appetizers, snacks, or special occasions. With adjustments for IDDSI compliance, everyone can enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Same Recipe, Your Texture
Pureed (IDDSI Level 4)
IDDSI Level 4 Saffron Rice Arancini Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the Arborio rice. Stir for 2-3 minutes to toast the rice lightly. Add the saffron-infused water and stir until evenly distributed.
- Gradually add the warm broth, one ladleful at a time, stirring constantly until the liquid is absorbed before adding more. Continue adding broth and stirring until the rice is creamy and cooked al dente, about 20 minutes. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
- Blend rice until smooth and uniform. Pipe rice into rounds on a plate. Sprinkle pregelled breadcrumbs onto surface of rice. Serve with marinara sauce or garlic aioli.
SLP Notes
Testing Method: This recipe should pass the spoon tilt and fork drip tests defined by the International Dysphagia Diet Standardization Initiative (IDDSI). The puree should sit in a mound on a spoon, sliding off in one bite when tilted/ lightly flicked, with no thin liquid separating. The puree should sit on top of a fork and should not drip through the fork tines (small “tail” is ok). Adjusting Consistency: If the mixture is too thick, add small amounts of liquid (broth, sauce, milk, or water) one teaspoon at a time. If too thin, add a thickening ingredient such as instant potato flakes, pureed vegetables, or thickener as clinically appropriate. Temperature Caution: The viscosity of purees changes with temperature. Always test after reheating or chilling, as thinner or thicker consistencies may alter the IDDSI level. Storage & Reheating: Refrigerate promptly and reheat gently, stirring between intervals. Always retest consistency before serving.For more pureed recipes, click here.
Easy to Chew (IDDSI Level 7EC)
IDDSI Level 7 Easy to Chew Saffron Rice Arancini Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the Arborio rice. Stir for 2-3 minutes to toast the rice lightly. Add the saffron-infused water and stir until evenly distributed.
- Gradually add the warm broth, one ladleful at a time, stirring constantly until the liquid is absorbed before adding more. Continue adding broth and stirring until the rice is creamy and cooked al dente, about 20 minutes. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. Let the rice cool completely before proceeding.
- Take a spoonful of cooled saffron rice and flatten it in your palm. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center and shape the rice around it to form a ball. Repeat until all the rice is used, placing the formed balls on a tray.
- Roll each rice ball in flour, dip in the beaten eggs, and coat in breadcrumbs. Set aside the coated arancini on a tray.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the arancini in batches for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Steam lightly under a bowl after frying to soften. Serve the arancini warm with marinara sauce or garlic aioli on the side.
SLP Notes
Testing Method: Foods should pass the fork pressure test and be easily broken apart with the side of a fork. Texture Goal: Normal-appearing foods that are soft, tender, and moist. No tough skins, sharp crusts, or sticky textures. Bite Size Guidance: Serve in small, manageable pieces; individuals should not need excessive biting or prolonged chewing. Moisture Retention: Light sauces or dressings keep foods comfortable to chew and swallow without dryness. Serving Reminder: Encourage sips between bites. Retest after reheating to ensure texture remains easy to chew.For more easy to chew recipes, click here.
How do I…
Adjust the macros?
Protein: Add chicken, ground beef, or tofu to the rice before forming.
Fat: Adjust levels of cheese, bake instead of fry. Swap egg whites for dredging the rice balls.
Carbs: Replace some of the rice with cauliflower rice or riced turnip, use crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs.
Make it fit my eating style?
Gluten-Free: Use gluten free panko breadcrumbs and your favorite gluten free flour.
Dairy-Free/Vegan: Use your favorite dairy free cheese or skip the center.
Make it fit my spoons?
Cook saffron rice in advance; it holds well and is the most labor-intensive step.
Bake the arancini in a mini muffin tin with an oil spray if frying is too much active cooking.
Form arancini and freeze before frying or baking. Reheat in oven or air fryer.
More Recipes
Hearty Easy to Chew Chili Cheese Burritos and a slice of Easy to Chew Apple Cake can help round out a weekend of recipes.
Every recipe here is designed for texture sensitive eaters: from dysphagia to dental issues to picky eaters. Get recipe roundups and practical tips by joining the mailing list.
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