Method

1. First make a simple risotto. Bring the stock to the boil with the saffron, then leave over a low heat. Melt the butter in a medium-sized pan, add the rice and cook gently for about 2 minutes until the rice begins to look translucent. Add a ladleful of the hot stock and simmer, stirring constantly, until it has all been absorbed. Add another ladleful of stock and continue like this until the rice is tender and creamy but still a little al dente – this will take about 20-25 minutes. Stir in the egg yolk and parmesan and season to taste with salt and pepper. Spoon the risotto onto a shallow baking tray, press a sheet of clingfilm onto the surface and leave to go cold. Chill for 2 hours.

2. To form the arancini, dampen your hands with water and divide the risotto mixture into 30g pieces. One piece at a time, flatten the mixture on the palm of one hand and put 2 cubes of cheese, a couple of pieces of prosciutto and 4 cooked peas into the centre, then shape the rice around the filling into a ball, patching up any gap with a little more of the risotto mixture.

3. Heat some oil for deep-frying to 180C. Dip the rice balls into the beaten egg and then the breadcrumbs and deep-fry in batches for 3-4 minutes until they are crisp and golden brown. Drain on kitchen paper and serve immediately.

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