African Rice Balls
Discover the delightful simplicity of African Rice Balls, a versatile staple that pairs beautifully with rich, flavorful soups and stews like groundnut soup, palm nut soup, or egusi stew. Made with just three ingredients—medium- or short-grain white rice, water, and a pinch of salt—this recipe creates perfectly sticky, tender rice mashed and shaped into satisfying, tennis ball-sized portions. The process of rinsing, slow simmering, and mashing releases the rice's natural starch, yielding a texture that's both hearty and comforting. Ready in under an hour, this dish is perfect for family dinners or exploring the diverse flavors of African cuisine. Whether you're a fan of bold, spicy broths or creamy, nutty sauces, these rice balls are the ultimate companion, offering a soft and chewy bite that soaks up every ounce of flavor.
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Ingredients
- 2 cups white rice (preferably medium-grain or short-grain)
- 5 cups water
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
Directions
Step 1
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
Step 2
In a large pot, combine the rinsed rice, water, and salt. Place the pot over medium heat and bring it to a boil.
Step 3
Once the rice begins to boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let the rice simmer for about 30-35 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 4
After the rice has absorbed most of the water and is soft, use a wooden spoon or a masher to vigorously mash the rice in the pot. This helps release the starch, making it sticky and easy to shape.
Step 5
Allow the mashed rice to cool slightly (just enough to handle it safely). Wet your hands lightly with water to prevent sticking and scoop a handful of rice. Shape it into a smooth ball, about the size of a tennis ball.
Step 6
Repeat the process until all the rice has been shaped into balls.
Step 7
Serve the rice balls warm with your favorite African soup or stew, such as groundnut soup, palm nut soup, or egusi stew.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | 1603 grams (1603.0g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 |
| Total Fat 0.80g | 1% |
| Saturated Fat 0.40g | 2% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g | |
| Cholesterol 0mg | 0% |
| Sodium 1220mg | 53% |
| Total Carbohydrate 112.80g | 41% |
| Dietary Fiber 1.20g | 4% |
| Total Sugars 0.40g | |
| Protein 9.60g | 19% |
| Vitamin D 0IU | 0% |
| Calcium 112mg | 9% |
| Iron 1mg | 4% |
| Potassium 140mg | 3% |
Source of Calories