2025 Sandyathome. All rights reserved. This original recipe, story, and content are the exclusive intellectual property of Sandyathome. Any reproduction, adaptation, distribution, or use, in full or in part, without prior written permission is strictly prohibited.
Millet arancini are crispy, cheesy fusion bites made with kodo millet, kasuri methi, and cheddar cheese. This air-fried version is a healthy, flavorful twist on the classic Italian rice balls — perfect for snacking, parties, or festive appetizers!
My Take on Arancini… With a Little Indian Soul
I’ve always loved arancini — those golden Italian rice balls with a crisp shell and a soft, cheesy heart. But this time, I wanted to do it my way. I swapped arborio rice with kodo millet, added a warm touch of kasuri methi, and tucked in a cube of melty cheddar cheese at the center.
And instead of deep-frying them, I air-fried the arancini with a light brush of olive oil. The result? They turned out perfectly golden, irresistibly crisp, and full of flavor — all without the extra oil.
This is fusion comfort food at its finest — Indian flavors, Italian technique, and a healthy, happy finish!
Arancini originated in Sicily, traditionally made with leftover risotto, shaped into balls or cones, filled with ragù or cheese, coated in breadcrumbs, and deep-fried. The name arancini means “little oranges,” a nod to their golden look. While the classic version uses arborio rice for its starchy stickiness, this millet version proves that healthy alternatives can still be deliciously indulgent!
| Ingredient | Role |
| Kodo millet | The hero of the dish! It replaces arborio rice to make the arancini wholesome and gluten-free, while giving a nutty, soft texture. |
| Butter and Olive oil | Butter gives richness. Olive oil keeps it light and perfect for air-frying, while butter brings a smooth, comforting aroma. |
| Onion & garlic | These form the flavor base, adding sweetness and warmth to the millet mixture. |
| Red chili flakes & red chili powder | For heat and spice — these brighten up the otherwise mild millet. |
| Garam masala | Adds subtle Indian warmth and complexity. |
| Kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves) | The secret desi touch! It brings a lovely earthy aroma that pairs surprisingly well with cheddar. |
| Salt | Essential to balance all the flavors. |
| Parmesan (optional) | For umami and extra cheesy richness in the base. |
| Cheddar cheese (for stuffing) | Melts beautifully inside, giving a soft, flavorful surprise in every bite. |
| All purpose flour + water slurry | Helps the outer coating stick and form a crisp layer in the air fryer. |
| Crushed cornflakes | Provides the golden, crunchy crust — a healthier and more textured alternative to breadcrumbs. |
| Olive oil (for brushing) | Ensures even browning in the air fryer and enhances the crispiness without deep-frying. |
You May Also Like these Recipes:
Yes, you can make millet arancini without cheese if you prefer a dairy-free or vegan version. Simply skip the cheddar and instead use a spiced mashed potato or veggie filling to keep the center flavorful.
Kodo millet, little millet, or foxtail millet works best for arancini with Indian flavors. These millets cook up soft enough to bind yet hold their structure well when shaped and air-fried.
To make air fryer arancini crispy without breadcrumbs, use crushed cornflakes or rolled oats as a coating. Dip the arancini in an all-purpose flour slurry before coating to help it stick and crisp evenly.
Yes! You can shape and coat millet arancini ahead of time and freeze them in a tray until firm. Once frozen, transfer to a ziplock bag. When ready to serve, air-fry directly from frozen—just add 2–3 extra minutes to the cook time.
Millet arancini made in an air fryer are a healthier snack for kids and toddlers. They’re rich in fiber, protein, and whole grains. You can even skip chili powder and use paneer or vegetables for a kid-friendly version.
Yes, you can make millet arancini without cheese if you prefer a dairy-free or vegan version. Simply skip the cheddar and instead use a spiced mashed potato or veggie filling to keep the center flavorful.
Kodo millet, little millet, or foxtail millet works best for arancini with Indian flavors. These millets cook up soft enough to bind yet hold their structure well when shaped and air-fried.
To make air fryer arancini crispy without breadcrumbs, use crushed cornflakes or rolled oats as a coating. Dip the arancini in an all-purpose flour slurry before coating to help it stick and crisp evenly.
Yes! You can shape and coat millet arancini ahead of time and freeze them in a tray until firm. Once frozen, transfer to a ziplock bag. When ready to serve, air-fry directly from frozen—just add 2–3 extra minutes to the cook time.
Millet arancini made in an air fryer are a healthier snack for kids and toddlers. They’re rich in fiber, protein, and whole grains. You can even skip chili powder and use paneer or vegetables for a kid-friendly version.
2025 Sandyathome. All rights reserved. This original recipe, story, and content are the exclusive intellectual property of Sandyathome. Any reproduction, adaptation, distribution, or use, in full or in part, without prior written permission is strictly prohibited.
Creamy, rich, and royal — this Mughlai-style Navratan Kurma is made with nine gems like…
Ragi poori, a crispy and earthy millet poori, is packed with calcium and cooling benefits…
Arcot Nawabi Vegetable Biryani is a delicate, vegetarian heirloom dish from Tamil Nadu's royal kitchens,…
Broccoli Mozzarella Quiche with Bread Crust — Quick Dump Recipe
Make the softest, healthiest no rice jowar dosa at home! This gluten-free cholam dosa recipe…
Make flaky, bakery - style Indian paneer puffs at home with spiced curd- marinated paneer.…
This website uses cookies.