jade shrimp balls

How to Make Crispy Emerald Shrimp Balls

Crispy Emerald Shrimp Balls, a vibrant and delicious dish, combine tender shrimp with a crunchy exterior. Here’s a simple guide to crafting this restaurant-worthy treat.

Ingredients: 300g fresh shrimp (peeled and deveined), 1 egg white, 2 tbsp cornstarch, 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp white pepper, 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine, 6 bread crumbs, oil for frying, and optional garnishes like lettuce or tartar sauce.

Steps:

1. Prep the Shrimp: Mince shrimp finely into a paste. For extra texture, chop some shrimp into small chunks and mix with the paste.

2. Marinate: In a bowl, combine shrimp paste, egg white, cornstarch, salt, pepper, and Shaoxing wine. Stir vigorously until the mixture becomes sticky and elastic (about 5 minutes). Chill for 15 minutes to firm up.

3. Shape the Balls: Wet hands with water to prevent sticking. Take a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a 1.5-inch ball. Coat each ball evenly in bread crumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

4. Deep-Fry: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry balls in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

5. Serve: Arrange on a bed of lettuce and serve hot with tartar sauce or sweet chili sauce.

Tips: For a healthier version, air-fry the balls at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes. Enjoy the perfect balance of juicy shrimp and crunchy crunch!