Oh my goodness, let me tell you, shrimp balls are one of my absolute favorite appetizers! They remind me of my childhood when my family would make them for special gatherings. The aroma of shrimp, garlic, and a hint of fresh herbs wafting through our home was enough to make everyone’s mouth water. These little gems are not only delicious but also incredibly fun to share with friends and family. They’re crunchy on the outside and bursting with flavor on the inside, making them the perfect finger food for any occasion!
One of the best things about shrimp balls is their versatility! You can enjoy them as part of a seafood platter, dip them in your favorite sauce, or savor them as a snack while binge-watching your favorite show. Plus, they can be baked or fried depending on your mood or dietary preference. Let me walk you through my go-to recipe.
What’s in Shrimp Balls?
Shrimp: The star of the show! I love using fresh shrimp, but frozen shrimp works just as well. Just make sure to thaw them completely before use!
Breadcrumbs: These create that lovely crispy exterior. I use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch; they make such a difference in texture!
Garlic: You can’t go wrong with freshly minced garlic in this recipe. It gives the shrimp balls an aromatic kick!
Green Onions: I adore the fresh crunch and mild flavor they add. Plus, they make everything look pretty!
Egg: This little binder helps all the ingredients stick together, ensuring that every bite is just as good as the last.
Spices and Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes give these delicious bites a burst of flavor.
Is Shrimp Balls Good for You?
Absolutely! Shrimp is low in calories and high in protein, making it a healthy choice for seafood lovers. They’re also a great source of vitamins and minerals like Vitamin B12 and selenium. However, it’s worth noting that shrimp can be high in cholesterol, so if you’re monitoring cholesterol levels, you might want to enjoy these in moderation. And if you have any seafood allergies, be sure to skip this recipe.
Ingredients List
– 1 lb fresh or frozen shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 green onions, finely chopped
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– Oil for frying (if you prefer to fry them)
This recipe yields approximately 20 shrimp balls, perfect for sharing with friends or saving some for later!
How to Make Shrimp Balls?
1. Start by processing the shrimp in a food processor until they’re finely chopped but not mushy. You still want some texture!
2. In a big mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped green onions, egg, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix everything well until fully combined.
3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (or heat oil in a frying pan if frying).
4. Form the mixture into small balls, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
5. If baking, place the shrimp balls on a lined baking sheet and lightly spray with cooking oil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. If frying, carefully place the shrimp balls in the hot oil and fry until golden, about 3-4 minutes each side.
6. Remove from the oven or oil and let them cool for a few minutes.
7. Finally, serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce—sweet chili sauce is my personal favorite!
Creative Serving Suggestions for Your Shrimp Balls!
– Pair your shrimp balls with a zesty dipping sauce like spicy mayo or classic cocktail sauce.
– Serve them atop a bed of fresh greens for a pop of color.
– Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for an extra touch.
– Thinking about flavors? Try adding a splash of lime juice or zest into the mixture for a refreshing twist.
I really hope you give this recipe a try! It’s perfect for any occasion, and I’d love to hear how yours turn out. Don’t forget to share your experiences and any fun variations you try! Happy cooking!
