Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, healthy, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Chinese Shrimp Ball recipe is your answer. These tender, juicy shrimp balls are bursting with fresh ginger and garlic, creating a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a more elaborate weekend feast. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, proving that delicious dishes don't have to be complicated.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (approximately 20-25 large shrimp)
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1 tablespoon finely minced fresh ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green onion, finely chopped (for garnish)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Shrimp
Finely chop the shrimp. You want a relatively fine texture, so don't worry about keeping them in large pieces. This ensures the shrimp balls hold their shape beautifully.
Step 2: Combining the Ingredients
In a large bowl, gently combine the chopped shrimp, cornstarch, egg, soy sauce, rice wine (if using), ginger, and garlic. Mix everything thoroughly but avoid overmixing, as this can make the shrimp balls tough.
Step 3: Shaping the Shrimp Balls
Using a tablespoon or your hands (lightly oiled to prevent sticking), form the mixture into small balls. Aim for roughly 1-inch diameter balls.
Step 4: Frying the Shrimp Balls
Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (a small test piece of shrimp mixture should sizzle immediately), carefully add the shrimp balls in batches. Avoid overcrowding the pan; this will lower the oil temperature and result in greasy shrimp balls.
Step 5: Cooking to Perfection
Fry the shrimp balls for approximately 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Step 6: Serving and Enjoying
Garnish the delicious Chinese shrimp balls with the chopped green onion. Serve them immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet chili sauce or a simple soy sauce and ginger mixture. These easy recipes make a fantastic quick dinner idea!
Cooking Tips for the Best Shrimp Balls:
- Don't overmix the shrimp: Overmixing can result in tough shrimp balls. Gently combine the ingredients until just combined.
- Fry in batches: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking and prevent the oil temperature from dropping.
- Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to adjust the amount of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic to your liking.
- Add some spice: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the shrimp mixture.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms into the shrimp mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
- Make it a soup: Add the cooked shrimp balls to a light broth or soup for a warming and satisfying meal.
- Serve with different sauces: Experiment with different dipping sauces, like a spicy mayo or a peanut sauce.
Nutritional Information (per shrimp ball, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 50-60
- Protein: 5-7 grams
- Fat: 3-4 grams
This recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and best recipes. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, combined skillfully, can create truly exceptional food. Enjoy!