Crispy Shrimp Balls (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Key Elements
01 -
1/2 cup panko or regular breadcrumbs
02 -
1 teaspoon sesame oil
03 -
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
04 -
1 egg, lightly whisked
05 -
1 tablespoon soy sauce
06 -
1 pound shrimp, peeled and cleaned
07 -
2 minced garlic cloves
08 -
1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
09 -
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
10 -
1/2 teaspoon table salt
11 -
1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
12 -
1 tablespoon cornstarch to thicken (optional)
→ Cooking Essentials
13 -
Cooking oil, like vegetable oil, for frying
→ Optional Add-ons
14 -
Sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top
15 -
Sesame seeds added for looks
16 -
Your favorite dipping sauce (chili, soy, or aioli)
# Instructions:
01 -
Cut the shrimp into little pieces with a knife, or give it a few quick pulses in a food processor for a finer consistency. Just be careful not to turn it into mush.
02 -
Put the shrimp, breadcrumbs, egg, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper into a spacious bowl. Toss in the cilantro if you're using it, then mix everything well.
03 -
If it feels too loose and hard to shape, sprinkle in the cornstarch and mix again to firm it up.
04 -
Wet your hands a bit to keep everything from sticking. Scoop a little mixture and roll it into balls about the size of ping-pong balls. You’ll make around 20-25.
05 -
Pour enough oil into your pan to cover the bottom. Heat it up over medium-high until it’s nice and hot but not smoking.
06 -
Carefully add the balls to the oil, giving them space to cook evenly. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they’re golden and done.
07 -
Move the cooked shrimp balls to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any leftover oil.
08 -
Lay the shrimp balls out on a plate. If you want, garnish with some cilantro or sesame seeds and serve with a dipping sauce you like.
# Notes:
01 -
Avoid turning the shrimp into a sticky paste when using the food processor. You just want smaller bits.
02 -
You can prep these shrimp balls ahead of time and chill them for a few hours before cooking.
03 -
Skip the frying by baking them at 375°F for around 15-20 minutes if you want a lighter option.