Crispy Shrimp Balls Recipe
Introduction
Crispy shrimp balls are a delightful appetizer that combines the fresh flavors of shrimp with a crunchy, golden exterior. Perfectly seasoned and easy to make, these bite-sized treats will impress at any gathering or as a tasty snack.
Ingredients
- 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 beaten egg
- ¼ cup finely chopped green onions
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch for binding
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Step 1: Roughly chop the raw shrimp into small pieces or pulse briefly in a food processor for a finer texture.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the chopped shrimp with panko breadcrumbs, beaten egg, green onions, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and black pepper. Add cornstarch as needed to help bind the mixture.
- Step 3: With slightly wet hands, roll the mixture into 1 to 1.5 inch balls, about 20 to 25 in total.
- Step 4: Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Fry the shrimp balls in batches for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Step 5: Remove the shrimp balls from the oil and drain on paper towels before serving warm.
Tips & Variations
- For added flavor, serve with a dipping sauce like sweet chili or spicy mayo.
- If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- To ensure the balls hold together well, chill the mixture for 30 minutes before shaping.
- Add finely diced chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Storage
Store any leftover shrimp balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it may make them soggy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp as long as it is fully thawed and drained before chopping. This helps prevent excess moisture in the mixture.
How can I make the shrimp balls less oily?
To reduce oiliness, drain the fried shrimp balls well on paper towels and keep the oil temperature steady so they cook quickly without absorbing too much oil.
PrintCrispy Shrimp Balls Recipe
Crispy Shrimp Balls are a delightful appetizer featuring tender shrimp combined with aromatic herbs and seasonings, coated in panko breadcrumbs, and fried to golden perfection. Perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy inside, these shrimp balls make an irresistible snack or party dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 20–25 shrimp balls 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
Shrimp Ball Mixture
- 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 beaten egg
- ¼ cup finely chopped green onions
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for binding)
For Frying
- Vegetable oil (enough for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare Shrimp: Roughly chop the raw shrimp into small pieces or pulse briefly in a food processor until the shrimp reaches a finer texture. This will help the shrimp balls bind well and have a smooth consistency.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, panko breadcrumbs, beaten egg, finely chopped green onions, minced garlic, grated fresh ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, black pepper, and chopped cilantro. Add the cornstarch to the mixture if needed to improve binding and mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
- Form Balls: Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking. Take portions of the mixture and roll them into 1 to 1.5 inch diameter balls. You should be able to form about 20 to 25 shrimp balls in total from the mixture.
- Fry: Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the shrimp balls in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each batch for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Remove and drain on paper towels before serving.
Notes
- For a finer texture, pulse the shrimp more, but avoid turning it into a paste.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before forming the balls.
- Ensure the oil is hot enough to avoid soggy shrimp balls.
- Serve with a dipping sauce like sweet chili or soy sauce for added flavor.
- Leftover shrimp balls can be refrigerated and reheated by pan-frying or baking for crispiness.
Keywords: shrimp balls, crispy shrimp appetizer, fried shrimp balls, Asian shrimp recipe, party appetizers
