Shrimp Balls Crunchy (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Shrimp Mixture

01 - 1 egg, whisked
02 - 1 teaspoon sesame oil
03 - 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
04 - 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
05 - 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
06 - 1 lb peeled and deveined raw shrimp
07 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
10 - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko works great)
11 - 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, to help hold things together)
12 - 2 minced garlic cloves

→ For Frying

13 - Oil for deep or shallow frying (like vegetable oil)

→ Toppings and Sides (Optional)

14 - Fresh cilantro, chopped, for topping
15 - Dipping sauces like soy, sweet chili, or a tangy lemon aioli
16 - Sprinkle of sesame seeds

# Instructions:

01 - Take your shrimp and give them a rough chop. Don’t overdo it—keep some bits chunky for texture. If you’ve got a food processor, a few short pulses can work too, but be sure not to make it mushy.
02 - Dump the chopped shrimp into a big mixing bowl. Add breadcrumbs, egg, green onions, garlic, and ginger. Mix in the soy sauce and sesame oil, then season with salt and pepper. If you’re using cilantro and think it needs a binder, a little cornstarch does the trick. Stir until it holds together when pressed.
03 - Dab your hands with water to avoid sticky fingers. Then, roll your shrimp mix into balls about the size of a ping-pong ball. Lay them on a plate as you finish—they’ll make around 20-25 balls depending on size.
04 - Warm up enough vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet. You’re aiming for a depth of about a quarter-inch. High heat is fine until you see it shimmering—not smoking yet!
05 - Ease the shrimp balls into the hot oil without crowding them—work in batches if that’s easier. Let them fry, flipping them occasionally, for about 3 to 4 minutes per side. They should be golden and crispy outside but still juicy inside.
06 - Use a slotted spoon to pull out the fried shrimp balls, placing them on paper towels to soak up any extra oil. Move them to a serving plate while warm, and top with sesame seeds or cilantro if you’d like. Serve right away with your chosen dipping sauce.

# Notes:

01 - Perfect as a party nibble or pair them with some steamed rice and stir-fried veggies for an easy dinner.
02 - The crispy coating and soft center make these an instant hit with guests.
03 - Want a fiery kick? Toss in some crushed red pepper for a spicier version!
04 - You can prep the mix ahead and chill it in the fridge for up to 4 hours before frying.

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