Arancini al ragù produced in eastern Sicily, particularly in cities such as Catania and Messina, have a conical shape inspired by the volcano Etna.

[7][8] In the cities of Palermo, Syracuse, and Trapani in Sicily, arancini are a traditional food for the feast of Saint Lucy (Italian: Santa Lucia) on 13 December, when bread and pasta are not eaten.

This commemorates the arrival of a grain supply ship on Saint Lucy's Day in 1646, relieving a severe famine.

arancini al ragù), which typically consists of meat in a tomato sauce, rice, and mozzarella or other cheese.

In Italian literature, Inspector Montalbano, the main character of Andrea Camilleri's detective novels, is a well-known lover of arancini—especially those made by Adelina Cirrinciò, his housekeeper and cook.

The success of the book series and the television adaptation has contributed to making this dish known outside of Italy.