Khao Phong, or puffed rice with sugar, is a beloved Thai snack that's incredibly simple to make yet delivers a satisfyingly crunchy and sweet treat. This humble snack offers a delightful textural contrast – the airy lightness of the puffed rice against the grainy sweetness of the sugar coating – making it irresistible to both children and adults. Its uncomplicated nature makes it a perfect recipe for beginners, and the customization options are endless, allowing you to adjust the sweetness and even add other flavorings to suit your preference. Imagine the satisfying crunch with every bite, a perfect combination of simple ingredients creating a truly memorable taste.
This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through the process of making your own batch of this addictive Thai snack. From preparing the puffed rice to achieving that perfect caramelized sugar coating, we'll ensure you create a delicious and authentic Khao Phong that will have you craving more. Let's get started and discover the joy of making this classic Thai treat in your own kitchen!
Tools Needed
- Winnowing basket
- Frying pan
- Pot
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- Leftover sticky rice
- Palm oil
- Coconut palm sugar: 200 grams
- Cane sugar: 50 grams
- Water: 2 tablespoons
- Salt: 2 pinches
- White sesame seeds
- Black sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Rice
- Dry leftover sticky rice in a winnowing basket in the sun for 2-3 days.
Step 2. Fry the Rice
- Heat palm oil in a frying pan until hot enough to make a piece of rice puff up.
- Fry the dried rice in batches, using medium heat, until golden brown and crispy. Set aside to drain excess oil.
Step 3. Make the Sugar Coating
- In a pot, dissolve coconut palm sugar, cane sugar, water, and salt over low heat until thickened.
- Add the fried rice to the sugar mixture, mixing well. Add white and black sesame seeds.
Step 4. Shape, Cool, and Store
- Quickly shape the mixture into balls while the sugar is still sticky.
- Cool completely, then store in an airtight container.
Read more: Crispy Garlic Green Beans: A Mom's Recipe
Tips
- Don't throw away leftover sticky rice; dry it and use it to make this snack!
- Work quickly when shaping the rice balls to prevent the sugar from hardening.
- Use palm sugar for a smoother, mellower sweetness.
Nutrition
- Calories: 700-800
- Fat: 30-40g
- Carbs: 100-120g
- Protein: 5-7g
FAQs
1. Can I use any type of sugar?
Granulated white sugar works best for this recipe, as it caramelizes easily. Brown sugar might be too moist and not crisp up as nicely.
2. What if my puffed rice is too sticky?
If the sugar is too sticky, try spreading the puffed rice out on a baking sheet to cool completely before storing. This will help it crisp up further.
3. How can I store my Khao Phong?
Store your Khao Phong in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay crispy for several days.
Making Khao Phong is a delightful and rewarding experience, proving that simple ingredients can create an incredibly satisfying snack. This easy recipe allows you to enjoy the authentic taste of Thailand in your own home, perfect for sharing with friends and family. So grab your ingredients and start crunching on this addictive and delicious treat!