Shrimp Balls Recipe

Shrimp balls are a delightful and versatile dish, featuring a crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful interior. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or addition to soups, these bite-sized treats are a staple in various Asian cuisines, especially in dim sum offerings. Their savory taste and satisfying texture make them a favorite for many.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as appetizers, in soups, or as a main dish accompaniment.
• Customizable Flavors: Easily adapt the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and store for quick meals or entertaining.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Their bite-sized nature makes them perfect for gatherings and parties.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 oz white fish fillet (e.g., basa), cut into 1-inch chunks
• 4 oz fatty ground pork
• ¼ cup sweet potato starch
• 1 tbsp tapioca starch
• 1 egg white
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp sugar
• ¼ tsp white pepper
• 1 tbsp rice wine
• ¼ cup crushed ice

Directions

this recipe

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Divide the shrimp into two equal portions. Place one portion into a food processor along with the fish, ground pork, sweet potato starch, tapioca starch, egg white, garlic powder, salt, sugar, white pepper, and rice wine. Blend until a smooth paste forms.
2. Incorporate Remaining Shrimp: Add the second portion of shrimp and the crushed ice to the paste. Pulse a few times to mix, ensuring the shrimp pieces remain slightly chunky for texture.
3. Chill the Mixture: Transfer the shrimp paste to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes to firm up.
4. Form the Balls: Prepare a bowl of ice water. Using wet hands, scoop a portion of the chilled paste and form it into a ball. Gently drop each ball into the ice water to help them hold their shape.
5. Cook the Shrimp Balls: Bring a pot of water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Transfer the shrimp balls from the ice water into the simmering water. Poach for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they float and are cooked through.
6. Drain and Serve: Remove the cooked shrimp balls with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve immediately or store for later use.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: Approximately 24–36 shrimp balls
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Fried Shrimp Balls: After forming the balls, coat them with breadcrumbs or wrap them with thin strips of spring roll wrappers and deep-fry until golden brown for a crispy texture.
• Baked Shrimp Balls: Place the formed balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until cooked through.
• Spicy Shrimp Balls: Add finely chopped chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for an extra kick.
• Herb-Infused: Incorporate chopped fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or chives for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store cooked shrimp balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Place cooled shrimp balls in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 1 month.
• Reheating: Reheat refrigerated or thawed shrimp balls by steaming for 5 minutes or microwaving until heated through. For a crispy texture, reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until warmed and crisp.

FAQs

What type of shrimp is best for this recipe?

Medium to large raw shrimp are ideal. Ensure they are peeled and deveined before use.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but thaw them completely and pat dry to remove excess moisture before processing.

Is it necessary to include fish and pork?

While traditional recipes use a combination for flavor and texture, you can omit or substitute based on dietary preferences.

Can I make the mixture ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the mixture and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before forming and cooking the balls.

How do I ensure the shrimp balls hold their shape?

Chilling the mixture helps firm it up. Additionally, dropping formed balls into ice water before cooking can help them maintain their shape.

Can I add vegetables to the mixture?

Yes, finely chopped vegetables like water chestnuts or green onions can add texture and flavor.

What dipping sauces pair well with shrimp balls?

Popular choices include sweet chili sauce, soy sauce with a splash of vinegar, or a garlic-infused soy sauce.

Are shrimp balls gluten-free?

This recipe can be gluten-free if all ingredients, including starches and seasonings, are certified gluten-free.

Can I cook shrimp balls in a soup?

Yes, after forming, gently drop them into simmering broth and cook until they float and are cooked through.

How do I know when the shrimp balls are fully cooked?

They will float to the surface when poached and should be opaque throughout. An internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) indicates doneness.

Conclusion

Shrimp balls are a versatile and delightful addition to any meal, offering a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Whether served as an appetizer, in soups, or as part of a main course, they are sure to impress. With options to customize and prepare ahead, this recipe is both convenient and adaptable to various tastes and occasions.

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