An Italian short grain, Arborio rice is large, bold, and marked with a unique white dot in the center. It is often used for risotto since it can absorb liquid and flavor over slow cooking. The result? Unmatched creamy texture with a chewy core. Since it holds its shape so well, it is also suited to making arancini, or fried rice balls. Likewise, we like the way it plumps up and naturally thickens minestrone.