Deep-fried Shrimp Balls

Deep-Fried Shrimp Balls Recipe - Authentic Chinese Cuisine

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Deep-fried shrimp balls are a delicious and crispy appetizer that is sure to impress your guests. These savory balls are made with a mixture of shrimp, water chestnuts, glutinous rice powder, and seasonings, then deep-fried to perfection. They are perfect for parties, gatherings, or just as a tasty snack.

History

Deep-fried shrimp balls have been a popular dish in Chinese cuisine for many years. The combination of shrimp and water chestnuts creates a unique texture and flavor that is loved by many. This recipe has been passed down through generations and is a favorite among those who enjoy traditional Chinese dishes.

Ingredients

0.5 kg / 1 lb raw shrimp
0.25 cup / 50 g peeled water chestnuts
2.5 tbsp glutinous rice powder
1 egg
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp chinese rice wine (or sherry)
cooking oil for deep frying

Dip

2 tbsp tomato sauce
salt and sichuan pepper

How to prepare

Peel the shrimp, pat them dry, and marinate with salt for 3 – 5 minutes.
Dice the shrimp into small pieces resembling rice grains.
Finely chop the water chestnuts and combine them with the shrimp, egg, glutinous rice powder, and rice wine. Mix well.
Heat the oil in a deep-fryer.
Before the oil becomes too hot, take a handful of the shrimp mixture and shape it into a ball about the size of a walnut by squeezing it between your thumb and forefinger.
Using a wet spoon, carefully place the ball into the hot oil.
Repeat the process to make approximately 20 balls.
Fry for about 2 minutes.
Stir the balls to separate them and continue frying until they turn golden brown. Then, remove them from the oil and let them drain.
Serve the shrimp balls with tomato sauce, and a mixture of salt and pepper as a dip.

Variations

Add minced garlic or ginger to the shrimp mixture for extra flavor.
Use ground pork or chicken instead of shrimp for a different twist on this recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to pat the shrimp dry before marinating to ensure they cook evenly.

- Use a wet spoon to shape the shrimp mixture into balls to prevent sticking.

- Fry the shrimp balls in batches to avoid overcrowding the fryer.

- Serve the shrimp balls immediately after frying for the best taste and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the deep-fried shrimp balls with a side of steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Deep-frying is the best cooking technique for this recipe to achieve a crispy exterior and tender interior.

Ingredient Substitutions

Substitute regular rice flour for glutinous rice powder if needed.

- Use canned water chestnuts if fresh ones are not available.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the shrimp mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to fry.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the deep-fried shrimp balls on a platter garnished with fresh herbs or sliced green onions for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the deep-fried shrimp balls with a light and refreshing beer or a glass of white wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover shrimp balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of deep-fried shrimp balls contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of deep-fried shrimp balls contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of deep-fried shrimp balls contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of deep-fried shrimp balls contains approximately 20 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Deep-fried shrimp balls are a good source of vitamin B12, selenium, and phosphorus.

Alergens

This recipe contains shellfish (shrimp) and may not be suitable for those with shellfish allergies.

Summary

Deep-fried shrimp balls are a high-protein, high-fat appetizer that is best enjoyed in moderation due to their calorie content.

Summary

Deep-fried shrimp balls are a delicious and crispy appetizer that is perfect for any occasion. With a flavorful shrimp mixture and a crispy exterior, these balls are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or part of a meal for a tasty and satisfying dish.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its flavors. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Lily in her cozy kitchen. As soon as I walked in, the aroma of garlic and ginger filled the air, and I knew something delicious was cooking.

Lily greeted me with a smile and handed me a glass of iced tea as she continued to chop vegetables and mix ingredients for the dish she was preparing. I watched in awe as she expertly peeled and deveined fresh shrimp, seasoned them with a blend of spices, and shaped them into small balls.

Curious, I asked Lily what she was making, and she explained that she was making deep-fried shrimp balls. She told me that it was a family recipe passed down from her grandmother, who had learned it from a friend in Hong Kong many years ago. Lily graciously offered to teach me how to make it, and I eagerly accepted.

As we worked together in the kitchen, Lily shared the story behind the recipe. She told me that her grandmother had been a talented cook who loved to experiment with new flavors and ingredients. One day, while visiting a friend in Hong Kong, she was introduced to a local delicacy - deep-fried shrimp balls.

Her friend had taught her how to make the dish, and her grandmother had come home inspired to recreate it in her own kitchen. Over the years, she had perfected the recipe, adding her own twist with the addition of fresh herbs and spices.

As Lily and I formed the shrimp mixture into small balls and coated them in a light batter, she shared tips and tricks she had learned from her grandmother. She emphasized the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients and taking the time to properly season and marinate the shrimp.

Once the shrimp balls were ready, Lily heated up a pot of oil and carefully dropped them in, watching as they sizzled and turned a golden brown. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the final result.

As we sat down to enjoy our meal, Lily and I savored each bite of the crispy, flavorful shrimp balls. The combination of tender shrimp, aromatic spices, and crunchy coating was simply divine. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen, and I thanked Lily for sharing it with me.

Since that day, I have made deep-fried shrimp balls countless times, each time adding my own twist with different seasonings and dipping sauces. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all raved about its delicious flavors.

The recipe has become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire, a reminder of the day I learned to make it from my dear friend Lily. Every time I prepare it, I think of her and her grandmother, and the wonderful traditions and flavors they passed down through generations.

As I sit down to enjoy a plate of deep-fried shrimp balls, I am filled with gratitude for the people and places that have inspired me to cook and create in the kitchen. The memories and flavors of this recipe will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and connection that food can bring to our lives.