Crispy Shrimp Balls – A Delicious and Easy Appetizer Recipe
If you’re looking for a flavor-packed, crispy, and easy-to-make appetizer, these Shrimp Balls are the perfect choice! Made with fresh shrimp, aromatic seasonings, and a crunchy golden crust, they are a fantastic option for parties, family gatherings, or even a quick snack.
These shrimp balls are great for seafood lovers and those who enjoy Asian-inspired flavors. With ingredients like garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil, they offer a savory and slightly spicy kick. Best of all, they are simple to prepare, making them an excellent choice for beginner cooks and experienced chefs alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Crispy & Juicy – A crunchy exterior with a tender shrimp center.
✔ Easy to Make – Simple steps and minimal ingredients.
✔ Versatile – Perfect for appetizers, snacks, or as a side dish.
✔ Customizable – Adjust seasonings or make it gluten-free.
✔ Crowd-Pleaser – Everyone will love these flavorful bites!
Ingredients for Shrimp Balls
To make about 20-25 shrimp balls, you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
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1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
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½ cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
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1 egg, beaten
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¼ cup green onions, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1 teaspoon sesame oil
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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¼ cup cilantro, chopped (optional)
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1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for binding)
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Vegetable oil, for frying
For Serving (Optional):
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Sweet chili sauce
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Soy sauce
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Tangy lemon aioli
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Extra chopped cilantro or sesame seeds for garnish
Kitchen Equipment Needed
✔ Food processor or knife – To chop the shrimp.
✔ Mixing bowl – For combining ingredients.
✔ Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate portions.
✔ Frying pan or skillet – To cook the shrimp balls.
✔ Tongs or slotted spoon – For flipping and removing shrimp balls.
✔ Paper towels – To drain excess oil.
How to Make Shrimp Balls
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture
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Chop the Shrimp – Roughly chop the shrimp into small pieces. If you prefer a finer texture, pulse them in a food processor, but do not overprocess.
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Combine Ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and black pepper.
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Adjust Texture – If the mixture feels too loose, add 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to help bind it together.
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Form the Balls – Lightly wet your hands (to prevent sticking) and roll the shrimp mixture into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. This should make about 20-25 shrimp balls.
Step 2: Fry the Shrimp Balls
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Heat the Oil – In a large frying pan, heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
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Fry in Batches – Carefully place the shrimp balls into the hot oil, ensuring you don’t overcrowd the pan.
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Cook Evenly – Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
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Drain Excess Oil – Remove the shrimp balls and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 3: Serve & Enjoy
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Garnish (Optional) – Sprinkle with chopped cilantro or sesame seeds for extra flavor.
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Serve Immediately – Pair with sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or lemon aioli for dipping.
How to Store & Reheat Shrimp Balls
Refrigeration:
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Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing:
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Freeze uncooked shrimp balls on a baking sheet for 1 hour, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
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To cook, fry them straight from frozen (add 1-2 extra minutes to the frying time).
Reheating Instructions:
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Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
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Air Fryer: Heat at 375°F for 5-6 minutes.
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Stovetop: Pan-fry over medium heat for 3-4 minutes.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
🔹 Make it Healthier – Instead of frying, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes, or air-fry at 375°F for 10 minutes.
🔹 Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.
🔹 Spicy Version – Add ½ teaspoon chili flakes or Sriracha for a kick.
🔹 Different Proteins – Try ground chicken, fish, or tofu instead of shrimp.
Best Dipping Sauces for Shrimp Balls
These shrimp balls taste amazing with a variety of dipping sauces:
🥢 Sweet Chili Sauce – A perfect balance of sweet and spicy.
🍋 Lemon Garlic Aioli – Creamy with a citrusy zing.
🍶 Soy Sauce & Rice Vinegar Mix – Classic umami flavor.
🌶 Sriracha Mayo – For a spicy, creamy bite.
What to Serve with Shrimp Balls
For a complete meal, serve with:
🍚 Steamed Jasmine or Coconut Rice – Light and fluffy.
🥗 Asian Slaw – Crunchy, tangy, and refreshing.
🥒 Cucumber Salad – A cool contrast to the crispy shrimp.
🍜 Ramen or Noodle Stir-Fry – Adds heartiness to the meal.
For drinks, pair with light beers, white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc), or iced green tea.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw completely and pat dry before using.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Form the shrimp balls and refrigerate them up to 24 hours before frying.
Why are my shrimp balls falling apart?
Your mixture may be too wet—add extra breadcrumbs or cornstarch to help bind it.
Can I bake them instead of frying?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Final Thoughts
These Crispy Shrimp Balls are an absolute must-try for seafood lovers! Whether you serve them as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, they are sure to be a hit. The combination of fresh shrimp, aromatic spices, and a golden crispy crust makes them completely irresistible.
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Happy cooking!
