Calas

Calas is a specialty of New Orleans consisting of deep-fried rice balls that are smothered in powdered sugar. The dough – made with boiled rice, yeast, eggs, sugar, and flour - is dense and chewy, while the center is creamy. These fritters are typically flavored with nutmeg and cinnamon, and they are traditionally served for breakfast, with café au lait on the side.

The word calas is thought to have been derived from the Nupe word kara, meaning fried cake. Originally, calas were sold by Creole street vendors in the city's French Quarter, but today they are a staple breakfast item throughout New Orleans.