Lighter and healthier this Vegan Arancini Bake is a delicious, oven-baked alternative that's just as satisfying as the original.
Questa ricetta è disponibile anche in italiano
The Vegan Arancini Bake is a wonderful way to enjoy a classic Italian dish with a modern, plant-based twist. It's healthier, just as delicious, and perfect for anyone looking to indulge in a comforting meal without the guilt. Whether you're serving them at a dinner party or enjoying them as a cosy weeknight meal, these baked arancini are sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try and experience the delightful flavours of Sicily, vegan-style!
Jump to:
🌟Why a Vegan Arancini Bake?
While traditional arancini are deep-fried and often packed with dairy and meat, this vegan version offers a healthier twist without sacrificing flavour. By baking instead of frying, you cut down on the oil content, making it a lighter option. Plus, with plant-based ingredients, it's perfect for those who avoid animal products or are simply looking to incorporate more vegan meals into their diet.
🔪 How to Make
STEP 1 - Cook the Rice
In a medium saucepan, melt the vegan butter then add the saffron and water. Season with salt and vegetable stock and bring to a boil. Add the rice, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat, transfer the rice to a large dish and spread it evenly. Let the rice cool to room temperature.
STEP 2 - Assemble the Arancini Bake
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Grease the bottom of a 20 cm (8inch) squared or round tray with olive oil, then sprinkle over half of the breadcrumbs.
Take a bit over ½ the amount of the cooled rice and flatten it to the pan and its sides to create an even layer to sandwich the Arancini filling in.
Spread the vegan Bolognese on the bottom of the rice layer, add frozen peas, vegan mozzarella and vegan grated cheese.
Cover with remaining cooked rice, one handful at the time, making sure to evenly cover the filling, as if you were to make a pie. Gently press the rice to achieve a firm bake. Sprinkle the top with the remaining breadcrumbs and drizzle with some extra olive oil.
STEP 3 - Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
STEP 4 - Serve
Serve the vegan arancini warm or at room temperature, with a side of a fresh salad. This bake is perfect as an appetizer, snack or main dish.
✍🏻Tips and Variations
Use Starchy Rice: Short-grain rice like Arborio or even Sushi rice is ideal for arancini because its high starch content helps the balls hold together.
Cool the Rice Completely: This makes it easier to shape the arancini bake and prevents from breaking apart during baking.
Customize the Filling: Get creative with your filling. Try adding spinach, vegan cheese, or even roasted vegetables for added flavour. If you're sticking to this recipe, feel free to use any vegan Bolognese sauce (aka Ragù) of your choice, either store-bought or homemade like this Chickpea or Vegetable.
Don’t Skip the Breading: The breadcrumb coating is key to achieving that signature crispy exterior, so don’t skip this step! You can easily make it Gluten Free by using GF breadcrumbs or even cornflakes (vegan).
🥡Storage
The Vegan Arancini Bake can be stored in the fridge for 2 days. Any leftovers can be frozen for later consumption.
🍽️Can it be Frozen?
This arancini bake can be prepared in advance and frozen, preferably before baking. You can either thaw it in advance or baking it straight from frozen, just bake it for longer (around 15-20 minutes).
📖Recipe
If you then want to subscribe to the blog by email, just do it by entering your email address below. You will receive an email every time a new recipe is published. No spam! Not my thing!
Leave a Reply