Introduction
If you’re looking for the ultimate bite-sized seafood snack, these Crispy Shrimp Balls are a must-try. Juicy shrimp is seasoned, formed into balls, and coated with a crunchy exterior — then fried (or air-fried) until golden brown. Popular across Asian cuisines, especially at dim sum, shrimp balls are a hit as appetizers, party bites, or even a fun dinner idea.
Searches for “crispy shrimp recipes” and “shrimp appetizers” are climbing, making this recipe a timely addition to your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled & deveined
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 egg white
- ½ tsp sesame oil
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or crushed wonton wrappers for extra crunch)
- Oil, for frying (or cooking spray for air fryer)
Timing
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Chill time: 20 minutes (for shaping)
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
👉 Quick, fun, and perfect for entertaining.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Shrimp Mixture
Chop shrimp finely or pulse in food processor until sticky. Mix with garlic, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, egg white, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Shape into Balls
With damp hands, form mixture into 1-inch balls. Place on tray and chill 20 minutes to firm.
Step 3: Coat for Crispiness
Roll each ball in panko breadcrumbs (or crushed wonton strips) until fully coated.
Step 4: Cook
- Deep fry: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry shrimp balls 3–4 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Air fry: Spray lightly with oil and cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway.
Step 5: Serve
Drain on paper towels and serve hot with sweet chili sauce, garlic mayo, or soy dipping sauce.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh shrimp: Frozen works too but thaw fully and pat dry.
- Don’t over-process shrimp: Keep some small chunks for juicy texture.
- Chill before frying: Helps balls hold their shape.
- Double-coat for crunch: Dip in egg wash, then breadcrumbs again.
Nutrition (per 2 shrimp balls, ~20 total)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Protein: 10 g
- Carbs: 6 g
- Fat: 6 g
- Fiber: 0 g
Healthier Alternatives
- Air fry instead of deep fry to cut calories.
- Gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers for coating.
- Low-sodium soy sauce for a lighter salt profile.
- Add veggies like grated carrot or zucchini into the mix for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with dipping sauces: sweet chili, sriracha mayo, or garlic butter.
- Serve as dim sum with dumplings, spring rolls, and fried rice.
- Make mini sliders by tucking them into bao buns with slaw.
- Use as a party appetizer with toothpicks for easy sharing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfrying: Makes shrimp dry and tough.
- Too much breadcrumb: Can overwhelm shrimp flavor.
- Skipping chill time: Balls may fall apart when cooking.
- Crowding fryer: Lowers oil temp and causes soggy coating.
Storing Tips
- Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight container up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Air fry or bake at 375°F (190°C) until crisp.
- Freeze (before frying): Freeze shaped balls up to 2 months. Fry or air fry from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to cooking time.
Conclusion
These Crispy Shrimp Balls are golden, crunchy on the outside and juicy inside — a restaurant-worthy appetizer made right at home. Perfect for parties, game nights, or family dinners.
FAQs
Q1: Can I bake them instead of frying?
Yes — bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping once.
Q2: Can I use cooked shrimp?
No, raw shrimp binds better — cooked shrimp won’t stick.
Q3: Can I prep ahead?
Yes, shape balls and refrigerate up to 24 hours before cooking.
Q4: Can I make them spicy?
Add chili flakes, sriracha, or cayenne to shrimp mixture.
Q5: Can I use other seafood?
Yes — scallops or fish paste can be mixed in for variation.
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