What Are Arancini Called in Rome?

By Alice Nichols

Arancini are a popular Italian dish that originated in Sicily. These delicious rice balls are typically filled with various ingredients such as meat, cheese, and vegetables. While they are widely known as arancini across Italy and in many parts of the world, you might be surprised to learn that in Rome, they are called supplì.

The Origins of Arancini

The name “arancini” comes from the Italian word for orange, “arancia,” which refers to the shape and color of these delectable treats. Traditionally, arancini were made using leftover risotto mixed with different fillings and then deep-fried to perfection. The crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the soft, flavorful rice on the inside.

Supplì: The Roman Name for Arancini

In Rome, arancini are called supplì. This name comes from the French word “souple,” which means soft or flexible. Supplì have a similar shape and concept as arancini but often have a more elongated form compared to their rounder Sicilian counterparts.

Supplì gained popularity in Rome during the late 19th century when French cuisine had a significant influence on Italian cooking. This French influence is evident not only in the name but also in the inclusion of tomato sauce within the filling of supplì.

The Anatomy of Supplì

A classic supplì consists of a ball or cylinder-shaped shell made from cooked risotto or rice mixed with eggs, butter, and grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. The filling typically includes ground beef or sausage cooked with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese.

  • Crispy Exterior: The outer layer is coated with breadcrumbs before being deep-fried, resulting in a delightful crunch.
  • Flavorful Filling: The combination of tomato sauce, meat, and molten mozzarella creates a burst of flavors with every bite.
  • Melting Cheese: When you break open a supplì, the melted mozzarella cheese stretches and oozes out, adding creaminess to the rice.

Supplì as Street Food

In Rome, you can find supplì not only in traditional restaurants but also as popular street food. Food stalls and vendors often serve these savory rice balls to hungry passersby. Whether enjoyed as a quick snack or part of a meal, supplì are loved by both locals and tourists alike.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while arancini is the commonly used term for these delightful rice balls throughout Italy, they are known as supplì in Rome. These crispy on the outside, soft on the inside treats have captured the hearts and taste buds of people around the world. So whether you find yourself in Sicily or Rome, be sure to indulge in these mouthwatering delicacies!