Calas(A Delightful Breakfast Treat)
Calas are a delightful Haitian breakfast treat featuring soft, fried rice pancakes with a hint of nutmeg and vanilla. Crispy on the outside and tender inside, they are perfect for a comforting morning meal or special brunch, topped with powdered sugar for added sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the cooked rice and eggs together in a bowl.
- Add the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, vanilla, and nutmeg to the rice mixture.
- Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of the batter into hot oil and fry until golden brown.
- Remove from oil, drain on paper towels, and sprinkle with powdered sugar.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure the eggs are at room temperature before mixing. You can substitute the cooked rice with quinoa or even mashed potatoes if needed. Adjust the sweetness by varying the sugar amount, or use honey for a different flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of cinnamon along with the nutmeg.
Serving Suggestions
Calas are delicious served warm, dusted with powdered sugar, and can be complemented with a side of fresh fruit or a drizzle of maple syrup. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or your favorite breakfast beverage. For a delightful twist, serve with a dip like Summer Vegetable Dip for a unique breakfast experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover calas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a toaster oven or an air fryer to regain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Calas(A Delightful Breakfast Treat) contains roughly 515 calories, with 14g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), protein (29% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make calas ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember to stir it well before frying, as it may thicken. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to fry them fresh.
What type of oil is best for frying calas?
A neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or vegetable oil, works best for frying calas. This ensures they fry evenly without imparting any unwanted flavors. Make sure the oil is hot enough before dropping in the batter to get that golden brown crust.
Can I freeze calas?
Yes, you can freeze calas. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container. To reheat, bake from frozen in the oven until heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).