Save These Thai Peanut Fried Rice Balls are crunchy on the outside and rich with fragrant herbs, peanuts, and a creamy peanut sauce within. This recipe was born out of my craving for something both comforting and lively for gatherings: a bite sized Asian inspired snack that never fails to impress.
I first whipped these up after experimenting with leftover rice and my favorite peanut sauce. The result was a game day hit that friends now request every time they visit.
Ingredients
- Cooked jasmine rice: Essential as the starchy base and its stickiness holds the balls together Choose high quality jasmine for that classic floral aroma
- Grated carrot: Adds color and crunch plus a hint of sweetness Opt for fresh carrots with a vivid orange hue
- Finely chopped scallions: Contribute bite and freshness Go for firm crisp stalks with deep green tops
- Chopped cilantro: Brings bright herbal notes Only use leaves free of yellowing or wilting
- Chopped roasted peanuts: Infuses nutty texture and flavor Look for roasted unsalted for better control over saltiness
- Soy sauce: Lends savory depth Use low sodium varieties if watching salt
- Lime juice: Lifts the flavor with citrusy zing Freshly squeezed is always best here
- Sriracha: Provides optional gentle heat Choose your favorite chili sauce
- Salt and black pepper: Balances overall seasoning Use freshly ground black pepper if possible
- All-purpose flour: Creates the first layer for breading Choose unbleached and sifted for better coating
- Large eggs: Binds the panko coating For vegans a flax egg will do in a pinch
- Panko breadcrumbs: Give that signature crunch Find large flake panko for the crispiest texture
- Vegetable oil: Neutral oil is best for frying Use canola or sunflower for a clean taste
- For the Peanut Sauce
- Creamy peanut butter: The heart of the dip Choose natural for richer peanut flavor
- Soy sauce: Adds salty depth
- Rice vinegar: Brightens and cuts through the richness Choose a clear and fresh smelling variety
- Honey or maple syrup: Rounds out flavors and brings gentle sweetness
- Fresh ginger and garlic: Both provide zing and savory complexity Only fresh ginger and garlic will deliver that special pop
- Hot water: Use just enough to thin the sauce to dipping consistency
Instructions
- Make the rice mixture:
- In a large bowl mix together the cooled jasmine rice grated carrot scallions cilantro chopped peanuts soy sauce lime juice sriracha salt and black pepper Make sure everything is coated evenly so every bite gets a balance of flavors
- Shape the balls:
- Dampen your hands with water to prevent sticking Scoop up a portion of the mixture and roll gently into about one and a half inch balls Press firmly so they hold together
- Bread the rice balls:
- Set up three shallow bowls Place flour in the first beaten eggs in the second and panko in the third Gently roll each rice ball first in flour then coat with egg and finally roll well in panko so every part is covered
- Fry the rice balls:
- In a deep skillet or saucepan pour in enough vegetable oil to come up about one inch Heat the oil to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit or until a panko crumb sizzles on contact Fry the balls in batches Turn them every minute until they are evenly golden brown and very crisp about three to four minutes each batch Avoid crowding the pan so they cook evenly
- Drain:
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried balls Let them drain on paper towels so they stay crispy
- Make the peanut sauce:
- Whisk peanut butter soy sauce rice vinegar honey fresh ginger garlic and a splash of hot water Stir until you have a creamy dippable sauce Add just enough water so it is smooth but thick
- Serve:
- Arrange the rice balls on a platter Serve hot and dip into the peanut sauce right before eating
Save The scallions in this recipe always remind me of my grandmother’s kitchen garden She would snip them fresh for dumplings and these rice balls bring back that bright aroma every time I make them
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days To re crisp place in a hot oven for ten minutes A quick stint in the air fryer also perks them right up
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap out jasmine rice for leftover basmati or even cooked quinoa if needed Egg replacer and gluten free panko work well if you have dietary restrictions Sunflower seed butter is a good peanut free replacement
Serving Suggestions
Serve these rice balls with extra chopped fresh herbs or a little diced cucumber for crunch Lime wedges on the side are perfect for guests who want extra zing They taste great as a snack or even inside lettuce wraps for a fresh lunch
Cultural and Historical Context
Inspired by Thai street food and the universal tradition of fried rice snacks this dish brings Southeast Asian flavors to a familiar form like arancini Thai cuisine often balances sweet salty and spicy and you will taste that in every bite of these little rice balls
Seasonal Adaptations
Summer party hit when served with a bright salad Perfect way to use up holiday leftovers like cooked rice Switch up the herbs to use what is freshest
Success Stories
My kids declared these better than their favorite take out I once brought a platter to a potluck and ended up writing the recipe on napkins for three different people Sharing these always sparks a conversation about favorite sauces
Freezer Meal Conversion
Shape and bread the rice balls as directed but freeze them on a tray before frying Once frozen store in a bag Fry straight from the freezer adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time
Save Share these with friends at your next get together: they deliver both crunch and a kick. Dip liberally in peanut sauce for the ultimate bite sized treat.
Recipe Guide
- → Can these rice balls be baked instead of fried?
Yes, bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, turning once for even crispiness.
- → What dipping sauce pairs best with these rice balls?
A creamy peanut sauce made with soy, ginger, garlic, and lime complements the flavors perfectly.
- → How can I make this dish vegan?
Use a flax egg instead of regular eggs and maple syrup in the peanut sauce for a vegan alternative.
- → Are there recommended garnishes for serving?
Serve with cucumber slices, extra lime wedges, or fresh cilantro for added freshness.
- → How do I increase the heat or spice level?
Add minced red chili or chili flakes to the mixture or peanut sauce for extra heat.
- → Can I use leftover rice for this dish?
Yes, leftover cooled jasmine rice works well. It helps in shaping the balls and maintaining their structure.