Air Fryer Lao Crispy Rice, also known as Nam Khao, is a delectable and flavorful dish from Laos. This recipe takes the traditional deep-fried rice balls and gives them a healthier twist by using an air fryer. The result is perfectly crispy and golden rice balls with a delightful mix of textures and aromatic flavors. Enjoy this delicious Lao delicacy with a tangy dipping sauce for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked jasmine rice, cooled
• 200 grams ground pork
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 2 tablespoons chopped mint leaves
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 tablespoons roasted peanuts, crushed
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Dipping Sauce:
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 small red chili, finely chopped

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked jasmine rice, ground pork, minced garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
2. Add the chopped cilantro, green onions, mint leaves, lime juice, and crushed peanuts to the rice mixture. Mix everything together until evenly distributed.
3. Preheat your air fryer to 390°F for about 5 minutes.
4. Divide the rice mixture into small portions and shape them into round balls, about the size of a golf ball.
5. Brush the air fryer basket with vegetable oil to prevent sticking. Place the rice balls in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave space between them for even cooking.
6. Air fry the rice balls at 390°F for 15-18 minutes, or until they turn crispy and golden brown, flipping them halfway through the cooking process for even browning.
7. While the rice balls are air frying, prepare the dipping sauce by combining fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, and chopped red chili in a small bowl. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
8. Once the rice balls are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them hot with the prepared dipping sauce on the side.

Enjoy the delightful crunch and explosion of flavors in every bite of these Air Fryer Lao Crispy Rice (Nam Khao) balls!