Nepalese-style Rice Balls

Ingredients

In the Nepalese adaptation of Cơm nắm, we incorporate traditional Nepalese spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric to enhance the flavor profile. Additionally, we use locally available rice varieties that are commonly used in Nepalese cuisine. The cooking techniques and shaping of the rice balls remain similar to the original Vietnamese dish. We alse have the original recipe for Cơm nắm, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (400g) cooked rice 2 cups (400g) cooked rice
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish Fresh coriander leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 3g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 0g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well until the spices are evenly distributed.
2. 2.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the rice mixture to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is heated through and the flavors are well combined.
3. 3.
   Remove the pan from heat and allow the rice mixture to cool slightly.
4. 4.
   Wet your hands with water to prevent sticking, then take a small portion of the rice mixture and shape it into a ball using your palms. Repeat with the remaining rice mixture.
5. 5.
   Garnish the rice balls with fresh coriander leaves.
6. 6.
   Serve the Nepalese-style rice balls as a snack or side dish with your favorite Nepalese curries or chutneys.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Rice — Use short-grain rice for the best texture and stickiness in the rice balls.
• Cumin powder — Toasting the cumin seeds before grinding them into powder will enhance the flavor.
• Coriander powder — Use freshly ground coriander seeds for a more aromatic taste.
• Turmeric powder — Turmeric adds a vibrant yellow color to the rice balls and offers its health benefits.

Tips & Tricks

• For added flavor, you can mix in finely chopped vegetables such as carrots, peas, or bell peppers into the rice mixture before shaping them into balls.
• To make the rice balls more nutritious, you can add cooked lentils or beans to the rice mixture.
• Serve the rice balls warm for the best taste and texture.
• You can store any leftover rice balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Experiment with different dipping sauces or chutneys to accompany the rice balls for a variety of flavors.

Serving advice

Serve the Nepalese-style rice balls as an appetizer or side dish alongside a traditional Nepalese meal. They can also be enjoyed as a snack on their own.

Presentation advice

Arrange the rice balls on a platter and garnish with fresh coriander leaves for an appealing presentation. You can also serve them in a traditional Nepalese bowl or on a banana leaf for an authentic touch.