Rice and Offal Balls

South African Rice and Offal Balls Recipe | Ingredients: liver, onion, rice, egg, garlic, breadcrumbs, vegetable oil

Region / culture: South Africa | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Rice and Offal Balls are a delicious and savory snack that can be enjoyed on its own or as a side dish. These crispy balls are made with minced cooked meat, boiled rice, and a blend of spices for a flavorful bite.

History

The origins of Rice and Offal Balls can be traced back to traditional recipes that use leftover meat and rice to create a tasty and filling dish. This recipe has been passed down through generations and has evolved to include different variations and flavors.

Ingredients

500 g (1 lb) minced cooked liver, offal or leftover meat
1 onion, finely chopped
250 g (0.5 lb) boiled rice
1 egg
5 g (1 tsp) garlic powder or 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
5 g (1 tsp) garlic salt
1 tsp (5 g) freshly ground white pepper
wholemeal breadcrumbs
2 eggs, beaten with 15 ml (1 tbsp) milk
250 ml (8 oz (227 g)) vegetable oil for deep-frying

How to prepare

In a bowl, combine the meat, onion, rice, egg, garlic powder or chopped garlic, garlic salt, and pepper.
Mix well to form a firm dough.
Form into small balls (the size of table tennis balls).
Roll each ball in the breadcrumbs and then the egg and milk mixture.
Heat the oil in a frying pan and, when hot, fry the balls until cooked inside and golden on the outside (check the first one cooked).
Drain and serve with fresh greens as a snack.

Variations

Add chopped herbs or spices for extra flavor.
Use different types of meat such as chicken or lamb for a unique twist.
Substitute rice with quinoa or couscous for a different texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to mix the ingredients well to form a firm dough for easy shaping.

- Use wholemeal breadcrumbs for added texture and flavor.

- Fry the balls in hot oil to ensure they are cooked inside and crispy on the outside.

- Serve with fresh greens or a dipping sauce for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Rice and Offal Balls with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Fry the balls in hot oil for a crispy and golden exterior.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use breadcrumbs or crushed crackers instead of wholemeal breadcrumbs.

- Substitute minced meat with tofu or lentils for a vegetarian option.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the Rice and Offal Balls ahead of time and store in the refrigerator until ready to fry.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Rice and Offal Balls on a platter with a garnish of fresh herbs or a drizzle of sauce for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Rice and Offal Balls with a side of yogurt sauce or a tangy chutney for a burst of flavor.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Rice and Offal Balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Rice and Offal Balls contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Rice and Offal Balls contains approximately 25g of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Rice and Offal Balls contains approximately 15g of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Rice and Offal Balls contains approximately 20g of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Rice and Offal Balls are a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and gluten from breadcrumbs, so it may not be suitable for those with allergies to these ingredients.

Summary

Rice and Offal Balls are a balanced snack that provides carbohydrates, proteins, and fats for energy and nutrition.

Summary

Rice and Offal Balls are a delicious and satisfying snack that can be enjoyed as a quick bite or a side dish. With a blend of flavors and textures, these crispy balls are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Rice and Offal Balls. It was a hot summer day, and I had just finished helping my mother in the kitchen when she handed me an old, worn piece of paper. On it was a list of ingredients and instructions for a dish that I had never heard of before.

My mother told me that the recipe had been passed down from her own grandmother, who had learned it from a dear friend many years ago. The dish was a traditional one in our family, but one that was rarely made due to its time-consuming nature. As I read through the recipe, I could feel my excitement growing. I couldn't wait to try my hand at making these Rice and Offal Balls.

The next day, I set out to gather all the necessary ingredients. I carefully measured out the rice, cleaned the offal, and chopped the onions and garlic. As I worked, I thought about the history of this recipe. I imagined my great-grandmother standing in her own kitchen, just like I was now, carefully preparing each ingredient with love and care.

As I mixed the rice and offal together, I could smell the delicious aroma of the spices and herbs. The mixture was beginning to take shape, and I felt a sense of accomplishment wash over me. I shaped the mixture into small balls and placed them in a pot of simmering broth. I let them cook slowly, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a mouthwatering dish that would soon be enjoyed by my family.

When the Rice and Offal Balls were finally done, I couldn't wait to taste them. I carefully lifted one out of the pot and took a bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth – savory, rich, and absolutely delicious. I knew that I had truly discovered a gem of a recipe, one that I would cherish and pass down to future generations.

Over the years, I have made these Rice and Offal Balls many times, each time with a sense of pride and joy. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, and it has become a staple at our gatherings and celebrations. The dish has brought us together, creating memories and moments that we will always treasure.

As I look back on that hot summer day when I first discovered the recipe for Rice and Offal Balls, I am filled with gratitude. Gratitude for my mother who shared the recipe with me, gratitude for my great-grandmother who passed it down through the generations, and gratitude for the joy and love that cooking has brought into my life. I am truly blessed to have this recipe in my collection, and I will continue to make it with love and care for many years to come.