Deep Fried Rice Balls with Caramel SauceRecipe submited by SunRice Coly cookoff contestants Lauren and Kellie Pound

RICE BALLS:

INGREDIENTS: 

• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 6 tablespoons all purpose flour
• 3 heaping tablespoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla
• 2 eggs
• 5 cups vegetable oil for frying
• powdered sugar

METHOD:

1. In a large bowl, mix the rice flour, baking powder and salt. Add the vanilla and eggs, mix well.
2. Heat oil and bring temperature between 350 deg F and 360 deg F. Once oil is hot, drop batter by tablespoons into the hot oil. Fry until golden brown on both sides. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
3. Serve hot and sprinkle with powdered sugar.

CARAMEL SAUCE:

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup Brown Sugar
• 1/2 Stick Butter (4 Tablespoons)
• 1/2 cup of half-and-half or Cream (cream will make it thicker)
• 1 Tablespoon Vanilla
• Pinch of Salt

METHOD:

1. Mix all ingredients in a medium saucepan over medium-low to medium heat. Cook while whisking gently for 5 to 7 minutes, until thicker. Turn off heat. Serve warm or refrigerate until cold.
2. If sauce is thin, just continue cooking for a few more minutes.