Shrimp Balls Recipe

Published: July 5, 2025

by Nora

Shrimp Balls are a delightful appetizer that everyone will love. This Shrimp Balls Recipe showcases the perfect blend of succulent shrimp, fresh herbs, and savory spices all wrapped in a crispy coating. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing for a family dinner, or just craving something tasty, these shrimp balls are versatile enough for any occasion. Their appealing texture and flavor make them a standout dish that is sure to impress.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these shrimp balls in no time.
Flavorful Combination: The mix of shrimp, garlic, ginger, and green onions creates an irresistible taste that everyone craves.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as appetizers, snacks, or even as part of a main dish; they fit any meal perfectly.
Crispy Texture: The panko breadcrumbs give these shrimp balls a satisfying crunch on the outside while remaining juicy inside.
Healthier Choice: Packed with protein and low in carbohydrates, these shrimp balls make for a nutritious option.

Tools and Preparation

To achieve the best results with your Shrimp Balls Recipe, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Food processor
Mixing bowl
Frying pan or deep fryer
Spoon or scoop
Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

Food processor: This tool makes it easy to finely chop the shrimp and mix in all the ingredients evenly.
Frying pan or deep fryer: Ensures that your shrimp balls cook evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown color.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Balls

1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 cup breadcrumbs, preferably panko
1 egg, beaten
1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (optional)
1 tablespoon cornstarch, optional (for binding)
Vegetable oil, for frying

How to Make Shrimp Balls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture

In your food processor, add the peeled and deveined shrimp.
Pulse until it reaches a coarse paste consistency.
Transfer the shrimp paste to a mixing bowl.

Step 2: Add Remaining Ingredients

To the bowl with shrimp paste, add breadcrumbs, beaten egg, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, pepper, and cilantro (if using).
Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined. If needed, add cornstarch for better binding.

Step 3: Form the Balls

Use your hands or a spoon to scoop out portions of the mixture.
Roll each portion into small balls about 1 inch in diameter.

Step 4: Heat Oil for Frying

In a frying pan or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
Ensure there’s enough oil to submerge at least half of the balls.

Step 5: Fry the Shrimp Balls

Carefully place the formed balls into the hot oil in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Fry each batch for about 4–5 minutes or until golden brown on all sides.
Remove cooked shrimp balls from oil and let them drain on paper towels.

Enjoy your delicious homemade shrimp balls! They are sure to be a hit at any gathering or meal!

How to Serve Shrimp Balls Recipe

Serving shrimp balls is all about creativity and enhancing their flavors. These delightful bites can be enjoyed in various ways, making them perfect for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your shrimp balls experience.

With Dipping Sauces

Sweet Chili Sauce: A tangy and sweet sauce that pairs well with the savory flavor of shrimp balls.
Soy Sauce Mixture: Mix soy sauce with a touch of ginger and garlic for an umami-rich dip.
Spicy Mayo: Combine mayonnaise with sriracha for a creamy and spicy kick.

As Part of a Platter

Seafood Platter: Include shrimp balls alongside other seafood favorites like calamari or crab cakes for a themed feast.
Party Appetizer Tray: Arrange shrimp balls with cheese cubes, olives, and crackers for a festive touch.

On a Bed of Greens

Mixed Greens Salad: Serve shrimp balls over a fresh salad with vinaigrette dressing to add crunch and freshness.
Asian Slaw: Pair with a crunchy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing for added texture.

How to Perfect Shrimp Balls Recipe

To make sure your shrimp balls turn out delicious every time, follow these handy tips. Mastering these will help you achieve the best flavor and texture.

Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will enhance the taste significantly compared to frozen options.
Chop Finely: For even cooking, chop the shrimp into small pieces or pulse in a food processor.
Don’t Skip the Cornstarch: Adding cornstarch helps bind the mixture and gives your shrimp balls a nice crispiness.
Heat Oil Properly: Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying; it helps in getting that golden brown color quickly.

Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Balls Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your shrimp balls can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:

Coconut Rice: This fragrant rice complements the flavors of shrimp perfectly. It adds a tropical twist to your meal.
Garlic Noodles: Soft noodles tossed in garlic butter provide a comforting and delicious side.
Vegetable Stir-Fry: A colorful mix of stir-fried vegetables brings freshness and crunch to your plate.
Mango Salsa: Sweet and tangy mango salsa adds brightness and balances the savory notes of the shrimp balls.
Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that pairs well with fried foods.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn is simple yet satisfying, making it a classic side choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making shrimp balls can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Avoiding these mistakes will ensure your Shrimp Balls Recipe turns out perfectly every time.

Using overcooked shrimp: Overcooked shrimp will make your balls tough. To avoid this, cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque before chopping them for the mix.
Skipping the seasoning: Shrimp can be quite bland. Always season your mixture generously with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce to enhance flavor.
Not chilling the mixture: If you don’t chill your mixture before frying, the shrimp balls might fall apart in the oil. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape.
Overcrowding the pan: Frying too many balls at once can lower the oil temperature. Fry in batches to ensure a crispy texture without sogginess.
Neglecting to test oil temperature: If your oil is too hot or too cold, it can ruin your shrimp balls. Use a thermometer or test a small piece of batter to find the right frying temperature.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Make sure they cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Shrimp Balls Recipe

Freeze uncooked shrimp balls on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Label containers with date and name for easy identification later.

Reheating Shrimp Balls Recipe

Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through for best texture.
Microwave: Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, but note this may result in a softer texture.
Stovetop: Heat in a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions people have about this delicious dish.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this Shrimp Balls Recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before using.

What dipping sauce pairs well with shrimp balls?

A sweet chili sauce or homemade soy sauce dip complements shrimp balls beautifully.

How can I customize my Shrimp Balls Recipe?

You can add different herbs like dill or parsley, or incorporate spices such as cayenne for heat.

Are these shrimp balls gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular ones in your recipe.

Final Thoughts

This Shrimp Balls Recipe is not just tasty; it’s incredibly versatile and perfect for various occasions. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or as part of a meal, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Try adding different vegetables or spices to make it truly yours!

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