How to Make Calas (Creole Rice Beignets) - A Step-by-Step Guide

Calas, also known as Creole rice beignets, are a traditional New Orleans breakfast treat with a rich history rooted in African and French influences. These delicious fritters are made with cooked rice, flour, sugar, and yeast, resulting in a light and airy texture with a slightly sweet flavor.

The origins of calas can be traced back to the African rice fritters brought to Louisiana by enslaved Africans in the 18th century. Over time, the recipe evolved with the addition of French culi...

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Ingredients

  • ½ cup warm water
  • 4 tablespoons white sugar
  • 1 (.25 ounce) package active dry yeast
  • 1 cup cooked white rice
  • 2 large eggs
  • ⅓ cup raisins
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
  • ¾ cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup crushed cashews (Optional)
  • oil for frying
  • 2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar, or as needed

Information

  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 10 mins
  • Additional Time: 1 hr 20 mins
  • Total Time: 1 hr 40 mins
  • Servings: 8
  • Yield: 8 servings

  • Combine water and sugar in a small bowl. Add yeast and let stand until foamy, about 10 minutes. Add rice and stir well. Cover with plastic wrap and leave at room temperature, about 10 minutes.
  • Lightly mash the rice mixture, leaving some grains intact. Stir in eggs, raisins, salt, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix in flour and cashews until well incorporated. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
  • Heat enough oil in a large saucepan to cover the beignets. Drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil; cook until browned, turning once, about 5 minutes. Drain on paper towels. Promptly sprinkle with confectioners' sugar.
  • Nutrition

    218 cal.

    • Total Fat: 9g
    • Saturated Fat: 2g
    • Cholesterol: 47mg
    • Sodium: 311mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 30g
    • Dietary Fiber: 1g
    • Total Sugars: 13g
    • Protein: 5g
    • Vitamin C: 0mg
    • Calcium: 21mg
    • Iron: 2mg
    • Potassium: 133mg