If you love the irresistible crunch and juicy bite of a classic dim sum treat, you are going to adore this Chinese Shrimp Balls Recipe. Each golden ball bursts with the fresh flavor of finely chopped shrimp, perfectly seasoned with ginger, garlic, and a touch of soy sauce, then fried to crispy perfection. This recipe captures everything wonderful about traditional Chinese cooking in a simple yet impressive appetizer that’s sure to be a hit whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in. With its balanced texture and savory notes, these shrimp balls make a dazzling snack or starter that welcomes you back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chinese Shrimp Balls Recipe lies in its straightforward but well-chosen ingredients. Each component plays a special role: fresh shrimp provides a delicate seafood taste and tender texture, aromatic ginger and garlic bring warmth and depth, while egg white and cornstarch bind everything seamlessly to create those perfect, firm spheres. The right seasoning and oil ensure every bite is bursting with flavor and cooked to a beautiful golden brown.
- 1 lb raw shrimp (peeled, deveined, and finely chopped): Use fresh or thawed shrimp for the best texture and natural sweetness.
- 2 green onions (finely chopped): Adds a mild onion flavor and bright green color for freshness.
- 1 tablespoon ginger (grated): Provides a zesty spice that elevates the shrimp’s flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the mixture with a fragrant, savory punch.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Enhances umami and adds a salty balance.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Gives a toasty, nutty aroma that’s signature to Chinese cuisine.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps bind the mixture and keeps the texture light.
- 1 egg white: Acts as a natural glue that holds the shrimp balls together.
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper: Adds subtle heat without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Brings out all the flavors perfectly.
- Oil for frying: Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point for crispy, golden shrimp balls.
- Optional garnish: chopped green onions or sesame seeds: Adds a colorful, textural finish.
How to Make Chinese Shrimp Balls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture
Start by finely chopping the shrimp with a sharp knife or give them a quick pulse in the food processor until you get a chunky paste. This texture helps the shrimp balls hold together and stay tender. Transfer the shrimp to a large mixing bowl, then add the green onions, grated ginger, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, egg white, white pepper, and salt. Mix it all thoroughly until the mixture feels sticky and cohesive. This step is crucial — the perfect consistency ensures your shrimp balls won’t fall apart during frying.
Step 2: Shape the Shrimp Balls
With slightly wet hands or using a small scoop, carefully form the shrimp mixture into 1-inch balls. The wet hands prevent sticking and help keep the balls smooth. Try to make them uniform in size so they cook evenly. Remember, gentle handling is key for maintaining that tender interior texture.
Step 3: Heat the Oil and Fry
Pour enough oil into a deep pan to reach about 2 inches deep and heat it to 350°F (175°C). Test the oil by dropping a tiny piece of the mixture in — it should sizzle and rise immediately. Carefully add the shrimp balls in batches, ensuring they don’t crowd the pan. Fry each batch for 3 to 4 minutes, turning occasionally, until the shrimp balls develop a beautiful, crisp golden crust and the shrimp are fully cooked inside. Using a slotted spoon, transfer them onto paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
While still warm, sprinkle your shrimp balls with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an extra pop of color and flavor. Now, they are ready to be enjoyed with your favorite dipping sauces!
How to Serve Chinese Shrimp Balls Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes really elevate the look and taste of these shrimp balls. Chopped green onions not only add a fresh bite but also a bright contrast to the golden exterior, while toasted sesame seeds bring a subtle nutty crunch. These little touches make every serving feel special and restaurant-quality.
Side Dishes
Pair these shrimp balls with classic Chinese sides like steamed rice, sautéed bok choy, or crunchy cucumber salad for a balanced meal. They are also sensational as finger food alongside a colorful platter of spring rolls, dumplings, and dipping sauces. Their light but flavorful profile complements a variety of dishes perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress your guests, try serving these shrimp balls on a bed of shredded lettuce or cabbage with a drizzle of spicy mayo or sweet chili sauce. Using bamboo skewers or toothpicks can turn them into easy appetizers for parties. Another fun idea is to incorporate them into a dim sum-style spread with other bite-sized treats for an interactive dining experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which might be tough!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To keep their crispiness, avoid covering them while they’re still hot and try to reheat thoroughly before serving.
Freezing
These shrimp balls freeze beautifully if you prepare them ahead. Shape the raw shrimp mixture into balls and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to three months and cooked directly from frozen by adding a couple of extra minutes to frying or baking time.
Reheating
The best way to bring shrimp balls back to life is by reheating them in a hot oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5 to 7 minutes. This method restores the crispy exterior without drying out the tender shrimp inside. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before chopping. Excess moisture can affect the texture, so drying is key for making perfect shrimp balls.
Is it possible to bake the shrimp balls instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a healthier alternative. Simply brush the formed shrimp balls lightly with oil and bake at 400°F for about 15 to 18 minutes, flipping halfway through to get even browning and crispness.
What dipping sauces go well with shrimp balls?
Sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and spicy mayonnaise are all fantastic choices. You can also try a tangy hoisin-based dip or a simple garlic-ginger soy blend for extra zing.
Can I add other ingredients to customize this recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to fold in finely diced water chestnuts for crunch, chopped cilantro for herbaceous notes, or a dash of chili flakes if you like it spicy. Just make sure to keep the moisture balance so the balls hold together.
How many shrimp balls does this recipe make?
This recipe yields about 20 to 24 shrimp balls, perfect for serving a small group as an appetizer or snack. They’re great for parties or to enjoy as finger food during family dinners.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Chinese Shrimp Balls Recipe enough if you want a bite-sized, flavorful dish that’s delightful to make and even better to eat. It’s one of those classics that brings people together, whether for a casual snack or special occasion. Once you try these at home, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make shrimp balls earlier. So roll up your sleeves and dive into this savory adventure—you’ll be hooked from the very first crispy bite!
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Chinese Shrimp Balls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 20–24 shrimp balls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
Chinese Shrimp Balls are a delicious and crispy appetizer featuring finely chopped shrimp mixed with aromatic ginger, garlic, and green onions, then fried to golden perfection. These bite-sized treats are perfect for serving at parties or as a flavorful snack paired with dipping sauces like sweet chili or soy sauce.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb raw shrimp (peeled, deveined, and finely chopped)
- 2 green onions (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon ginger (grated)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 egg white
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Oil for frying
Optional Garnish
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp Mixture: Finely chop the shrimp by hand or pulse in a food processor until a chunky paste forms. In a large bowl, combine the chopped shrimp with green onions, grated ginger, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, egg white, white pepper, and salt. Mix thoroughly until the mixture is sticky and holds together.
- Form the Shrimp Balls: Using wet hands or a small scoop, shape the shrimp mixture into 1-inch round balls, ensuring they are compact enough to hold form during frying.
- Heat the Oil: Pour about 2 inches of oil into a deep pan and heat it to 350°F (175°C), testing with a thermometer for accuracy to ensure proper frying temperature.
- Fry the Shrimp Balls: Carefully add the shrimp balls in batches to the hot oil. Fry them for 3–4 minutes per batch, turning occasionally to brown all sides evenly. The shrimp balls should be golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fried shrimp balls with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot alongside sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or spicy mayo for dipping.
Notes
- For a healthier alternative, you can bake the shrimp balls by brushing them with oil and baking at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- These shrimp balls freeze well uncooked. Form the balls, freeze them on a tray individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for future frying or baking.
