Shrimp Balls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shrimp Balls are a popular appetizer or snack in many Asian cuisines, especially known for their crispy exterior and juicy, flavorful shrimp filling. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, family dinners, or as a unique addition to your dim sum spread. Easy to make and fun to eat, Shrimp Balls offer a satisfying crunch and a delicious burst of umami in every bite.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

shrimp (peeled, deveined, and finely chopped)eggwhitegarlic (minced)green onion (finely chopped)soy saucesoystarch (or cornstarch)white pepperseasamesaltpanko breadcrumbs (for coating)oil (for deep frying)

directions

Peel and devein the shrimp, then finely chop them into a paste-like texture.

In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, egg white, garlic, green onion, soy sauce, oyster sauce, starch, white pepper, sesame oil, and salt. Mix thoroughly until a sticky mixture forms.

Using your hands or a spoon, form the shrimp mixture into small balls.

Roll each ball in panko breadcrumbs until evenly coated.

Heat oil in a deep frying pan or pot to 350°F (175°C).

Fry the shrimp balls in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (about 3-4 minutes).

Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.

Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 20 shrimp balls.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
Total time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

Add minced water chestnuts or bamboo shoots for added crunch.

Incorporate a bit of chili sauce into the mixture for a spicy kick.

Bake instead of fry for a lighter version—brush with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) until golden.

Serve on skewers for a fun party presentation.

storage/reheating

Store leftover shrimp balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until heated through.
They can also be frozen for up to 1 month—reheat from frozen in the oven until hot and crispy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before chopping.

Can I make shrimp balls in advance?

Yes, form the balls and store them in the fridge for up to 1 day before frying.

What dipping sauce goes well with shrimp balls?

Sweet chili sauce, soy sauce with garlic, or spicy mayo are great choices.

Can I air fry these?

Yes, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through.

Are shrimp balls gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and breadcrumbs to make them gluten-free.

Why are my shrimp balls falling apart?

Make sure the mixture is sticky enough and not too wet—add more starch if needed.

Do I need a food processor?

Not necessary, but it can help achieve a smoother texture faster.

Can I add other seafood?

Yes, mix in minced fish or crab for a seafood medley version.

Are these spicy?

Not by default, but you can add chili or hot sauce to spice them up.

Do I need to devein the shrimp?

Yes, for the best texture and to remove grit, always devein shrimp.

Conclusion

Shrimp Balls are a crispy, savory delight that bring restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen. Whether you’re making them for a gathering or just to enjoy something special, these tasty bites are sure to be a hit. With their golden crust and juicy center, they’re as fun to eat as they are to make—give them a try and add a splash of flavor to your table.

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