Cajun Boudin Balls

Ingredients

• 1 cup (185g) cooked rice 1 cup (185g) cooked rice
• 1 lb (450g) ground pork 1 lb (450g) ground pork
• 1/2 cup (75g) finely chopped onions 1/2 cup (75g) finely chopped onions
• 1/4 cup (40g) finely chopped bell peppers 1/4 cup (40g) finely chopped bell peppers
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup (120g) breadcrumbs 1 cup (120g) breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 1g
• Protein: 16g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.8g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, ground pork, onions, bell peppers, garlic, paprika, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. 2.
   Take a small portion of the mixture and roll it into a ball, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Repeat with the remaining mixture.
3. 3.
   Place the breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. Roll each ball in the breadcrumbs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
4. 4.
   In a deep pot or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the coated balls into the hot oil, frying them in batches for about 5-6 minutes or until golden brown.
5. 5.
   Remove the Boudin Balls from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. 6.
   Serve the Boudin Balls hot as an appetizer or snack. They can be enjoyed on their own or with a dipping sauce of your choice.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground pork — Ensure the ground pork is well-seasoned and cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure food safety.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture.
• Serve the Boudin Balls with a side of remoulade sauce or spicy mustard for dipping.
• To make the dish more visually appealing, sprinkle some chopped green onions or parsley on top before serving.
• If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the recipe.
• Boudin Balls can be made ahead of time and frozen. Simply thaw and reheat in the oven before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Cajun Boudin Balls as an appetizer at your next gathering or as a delicious snack for game nights. They are best enjoyed hot and can be served with a side of remoulade sauce or spicy mustard for dipping.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden Boudin Balls on a platter, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color. Consider serving them alongside a small bowl of dipping sauce to enhance the visual appeal.