Sicily is a land rich in unique and fascinating culinary traditions, each with its own history and particular charm. Among the most representative symbols of this gastronomic culture is undoubtedly thearancino or arancina, a true emblem of Sicilian street food. However, behind this simple and delicious morsel lies a centuries-old debate that divides the island into two opposing factions: Arancini or AranciniWhat is the correct name?
The Arab origins and the characteristic shape
The origins of thearancini or arancini They have their roots in the era of Arab domination in Sicily, between the 9th and 11th centuries. During that period, local nobles and notables used to serve on their tables a dish based on rice flavored with saffron, seasoned with small pieces of lamb meat. This dish was shaped by hand into round balls, which in shape and size resembled the fruit of theorange, introduced to the island by the Arabs themselves. Hence the name "arancini or arancini“, which recalls the shape of this citrus fruit.
The linguistic dispute: Arancino or Arancina?
Despite their shared origins, Sicily has been divided over the centuries between the masculine and feminine names "arancino" and "arancina." This linguistic contrast has deep roots and is rooted in the dialectal and cultural differences between western and eastern Sicily.
The Western view: the Arancina
In the western part of the island, especially in Palermo and in the neighboring provinces, the term used is undoubtedly “aranciniThis choice is motivated by the fact that, in standard Italian, the name of the fruit "arancia" is feminine. Consequently, the diminutive "arancina" is the grammatically correct form.
The Eastern vision: the Arancino
Instead, in eastern Sicily, in particular in Catania, the prevailing denomination is “arancini“. This preference is linked to the fact that, in the Sicilian dialect, the name of the fruit “orange” is of the masculine gender (“arànciu”). Consequently, the diminutive in this case becomes “arancino”. This choice is also supported by the fact that the first historical documents that mention the dish, such as the Sicilian-Italian Dictionary Of Joseph Biundi of 1857, they use the masculine form.
The Accademia della Crusca's attempt at mediation
In the face of this heated dispute, theAcademy of the Crusca, the highest linguistic institution Italian, intervened in 2016 to try to find a compromise solution. After careful research, the Academy's experts concluded that both names are correct and acceptable. On the one hand, "arancina" is valid because it derives from the standard Italian term "arancia," which is feminine. On the other hand, "arancino" is equally legitimate, being linked to the dialectal variant Sicilian.
Despite mediation attempts by the Accademia della Crusca, the dispute between Palermo and Catania, Sicily's two main cities, continues unabated to this day. Both factions proudly claim their own denomination, considering it the only authentic and legitimate one.
The linguistic controversy surrounding the arancino/a wasn't limited to the theoretical level, but also had concrete repercussions in the commercial sphere. A prime example is the case of the "Savia" bar in Catania, open since 1897 and known for its delicious arancini. For decades, the establishment had chosen to use the term "arancina," believing it to be more faithful to the dish's origins. However, after the Accademia della Crusca article was published, customers began to protest, forcing the owner to change the label to "arancini“.
Contemporary variants of thearancini or arancini
Despite the ongoing linguistic dispute, thearancini or arancini It remains one of Sicily's most beloved and recognizable culinary symbols. Over time, this gastronomic specialty has undergone numerous evolutions and interpretations, giving rise to a vast array of variations.
Classic filling: ragù and béchamel sauce
The filling traditional of thearancini or arancini it is undoubtedly the meat ragù and peas, or the version with butter, cooked ham, and béchamel sauce. These two variations are timeless classics.
New trends: salmon, pistachios and more
However, in recent years, several other filling options have been experimented with, such as salmon, pistachios, mushrooms, 'nduja and even sweet versions filled with chocolate or ricottaThese innovative interpretations testify to the continuous evolution and creativity that characterizes Sicilian cuisine.
The Feast of Saint Lucia in Palermo and Syracuse
THE'arancini or arancini It is deeply rooted in the culture and traditions of Sicily. In some areas of the island, such as Palermo and Syracuse, on December 13th, on the occasion of the Feast of Saint Lucia, thearancini or arancini becomes the undisputed protagonist of the celebrations. According to legend, Saint Lucy miraculously saved Sicily from two terrible famines by bringing cargoes of wheat by sea. For this reason, on December 13th, Sicilians avoid consuming wheat-based foods, such as bread and pasta, replacing them with rice. Thearancini or arancini, filled with ragù or butter, becomes the symbolic dish of this occasion.
Where to taste the best arancini or aranciniin Sicily
Whether you're looking for "arancini" or "arancine," Sicily offers countless ways to savor this gastronomic delight. Here are some of the most famous places to enjoy them:
Catania
In Catania, you can't miss the chance to taste the arancini from Savia, local historian of Etnea Streetor from Spinella, located in the immediate vicinity. Another unmissable stop is Uzeta Bistrò, in Via Penninello 7, while for a more rustic experience you can't miss trying those of theAntica Friggitoria Stella, in Via Monsignor Ventimiglia 66.
Palermo
In Palermo, the point of reference for arancini lovers is undoubtedly Oscar, a historic pastry shop open since 1965. Another option not to be missed is Bar Touring, in Lincoln Street 15, which serves extra-large portions filled with butter, meat, salmon, sausage, mushrooms and even chocolate. Finally, you can't leave Palermo without tasting the arancini di Scatassa, in Admiral Rizzo Street 65, also known for their delicious “fried calzone“.
Arancino or Arancina? In short
Let them be called arancini or arancini, it doesn't matter: the essence of this street food Sicilian cuisine remains the same: a delicious morsel of golden, crispy rice, stuffed with tasty ingredients. The linguistic dispute that divides Sicily into two factions does not in the least affect the deliciousness and popularity of this specialty, loved and celebrated throughout the world. So, don't get caught up in the controversy and simply enjoy the unique taste of this dish.arancini or arancini, whatever name you give it.
