Cheater Potato Arancini Recipe. A play off classic risotto arancini, this potato version is a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes and other holiday.
Place the spinach in a sieve and press out as much moisture as possible. Then move it to a large paper towel and squeeze out the remaining moisture.
Measure the mashed potatoes into a bowl. Then add the dried spinach and the packet of Hidden Valley Dips Mix. Mix by hand to combine.
Pour the oil into a large stock pot and set over medium-high heat. Use a 1 1/2-tablespoon scoop to measure the potato mixture. Then roll each scoop into a ball. Place the cornstarch in a rimmed dish, and roll the potato balls in the cornstarch to thoroughly coat.
Start frying once the oil reaches 350 degrees F. Carefully lower 10-12 balls into the hot oil and fry for 5-8 minutes, until golden brown. Remove the potato arancini with a skimmer and place on a paper towel lined plate. Repeat with remaining potato balls.
Serve the potato arancini hot with warm marinara for dipping.
Notes
NOTES: Arancini is traditionally made with leftover risotto. You can use other leftover items to make cheater arancini such as stuffing, sticky rice, or firm mashed sweet potatoes.