Deep-Fried California Roll Rice Balls

Instructions

• Prepare filling: Toss crabmeat and avocado together in a bowl and place in the refrigerator to chill until needed.
• Bring water to a boil on the stovetop. Add rice, stir, cover, and remove from heat. Set aside until water is absorbed, about 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
• When the rice is set up and still hot, blend in cream cheese, soy sauce, garlic salt, and pepper until the cream cheese is fully incorporated and no chunks remain.
• Scoop out a golf ball-sized handful of the rice mixture and flatten it into a patty. Add about a heaping teaspoon of the avocado-crab filling into the center. Cup your hand and close the rice around the filling. Roll between your hands if needed to seal and get a good round shape; patch any holes with more rice if needed. Roll in bread crumbs until well coated. Repeat to make remaining balls.
• Heat oil in a deep-fryer or large saucepan to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
• Add 1 to 2 balls to the hot oil at a time. If not fully submerged, let each side of the ball fry until golden brown, about 30 seconds per side. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Continue to fry remaining rice balls.
• Combine mayonnaise and Sriracha for dipping sauce. Serve with rice balls.