# Components:
→ Rice Ball Mixture
01 - 2 cups cooked jasmine rice, cooled
02 - 1/2 cup grated carrot
03 - 1/2 cup finely chopped scallions
04 - 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro
05 - 1/3 cup chopped roasted peanuts
06 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce
07 - 1 tablespoon lime juice
08 - 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce (optional)
09 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
10 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
→ Breading and Frying
11 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
12 - 2 large eggs, beaten
13 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
14 - Vegetable oil, for frying
→ Peanut Sauce
15 - 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
16 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce
17 - 2 teaspoons rice vinegar
18 - 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
19 - 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
20 - 1 garlic clove, minced
21 - 1 to 2 tablespoons hot water
# Method:
01 - In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly blend cooled jasmine rice, grated carrot, chopped scallions, cilantro, roasted peanuts, soy sauce, lime juice, sriracha (if desired), salt, and black pepper until uniformly mixed.
02 - With damp hands, form the mixture into balls approximately 1.5 inches in diameter, pressing gently to ensure cohesion.
03 - Set out three shallow bowls: place flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and panko breadcrumbs in the third.
04 - Dredge each rice ball in flour, dip into the beaten eggs, then coat completely in panko breadcrumbs for an even crust.
05 - Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or large saucepan to a depth of 1 inch and heat on medium until the temperature reaches 350°F (175°C).
06 - Working in batches, gently add breaded rice balls to the hot oil, turning occasionally, and fry until uniformly golden and crisp on all sides, approximately 3 to 4 minutes per batch. Do not overcrowd the cooking vessel.
07 - Remove fried rice balls using a slotted spoon and transfer to paper towels to absorb excess oil.
08 - In a small bowl, whisk together creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Gradually add hot water, mixing continuously, until a smooth, dippable sauce consistency is achieved.
09 - Present warm rice balls accompanied by the peanut sauce for dipping.
