What are shrimp balls made of?

Shrimp balls are made from minced shrimp, garlic, ginger, green onions, egg white, and cornstarch, with optional breadcrumbs for crunch. They can be fried, boiled, or added to soups.

Can I use frozen shrimp for shrimp balls?

Yes, thaw completely and pat dry. Frozen shrimp work well for this shrimp balls recipe.

Are shrimp balls better fried or boiled?

Fried shrimp balls are crispy and ideal as appetizers, while boiled shrimp balls are soft and perfect for soups.

How do you store shrimp balls?

Store cooked shrimp balls in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days or freeze uncooked for up to 2 months.

Shrimp Balls Recipe: Easy, Crispy, and Delicious 2026

Description

Juicy, flavorful shrimp balls made with fresh shrimp, garlic, and simple seasonings. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these bite-sized seafood delights are perfect as an appetizer, party snack, or added to soups and noodle dishes.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–6):

For the Shrimp Balls:

1 lb (450g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
2 green onions, finely chopped
1 egg white
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for extra texture)

For Frying:

Vegetable oil (for deep frying)

Optional Dipping Sauce:

2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon rice vinegar
½ teaspoon sesame oil

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture
Pat shrimp dry and finely chop or pulse in a food processor until minced but slightly chunky (do not over-blend into paste).
Transfer to a bowl and mix with garlic, ginger, green onions, egg white, cornstarch, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Stir until sticky and well combined. Fold in breadcrumbs if using.

Step 2: Shape the Balls
Lightly oil your hands and form the mixture into small balls (about 1–1½ inches wide). Place on a tray.

Step 3: Fry
Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
Carefully fry shrimp balls in batches for 3–4 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove and drain on paper towels.

Alternative Cooking Methods:

Air Fryer: 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, lightly sprayed with oil.
For Soup: Drop shaped balls directly into simmering broth and cook 4–5 minutes until floating and firm.

Step 4: Serve
Serve hot with dipping sauce or add to soups and noodle bowls.

Notes

✔ Do not over-process shrimp — texture is key.
✔ Make ahead: Shape and refrigerate up to 24 hours before cooking.
✔ Freezer-friendly: Freeze uncooked balls on a tray, then store in a bag up to 2 months. Cook from frozen (add 1–2 minutes extra).
✔ For extra flavor: Add a pinch of chili flakes or finely diced water chestnuts for crunch.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Appetizer / Seafood
Method: Fried (or Air Fried / Simmered)
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired