Description
Crispy Shrimp Balls are a delicious and irresistible appetizer made with fresh shrimp, herbs, and spices, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 large egg
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- In a food processor, combine the shrimp, breadcrumbs, green onions, cilantro, garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still slightly chunky.
- Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the egg until fully incorporated.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to help it firm up.
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium heat until it reaches 350°F.
- While the oil is heating, form the shrimp mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully drop the shrimp balls into the oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the shrimp balls with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet chili sauce or a spicy mayo.
Notes
- For a healthier option, bake the shrimp balls at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
- Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the mixture for a fresh citrus flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 150mg