Deep Fried Shrimp Balls
Description
These Deep Fried Shrimp Balls are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines the sweetness of fresh shrimp with the smoky crunch of bacon and the satisfying texture of water chestnuts. The addition of stale bread cubes keeps the mixture moist while providing structure, resulting in a tender interior encased in a crispy, golden-brown shell. They are incredibly versatile, making them an ideal choice for holiday parties, game day gatherings, or as an elegant starter for a dinner party. Serve them warm with a side of cocktail sauce or sweet chili dipping sauce for the ultimate flavor experience.Ingredients
Directions
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Finely mince the cleaned and deveined shrimp, cooked bacon strips, and water chestnuts together in a food processor or by hand until the mixture is uniform but still has some texture.
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Remove crusts from the bread and dice the remaining bread into very fine cubes.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced shrimp, bacon, and water chestnut mixture with the fine bread cubes.
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Add salt, pepper, the beaten egg, and cornstarch to the bowl and mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
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Fill a wok or deep pot halfway with oil and heat it over high heat until it reaches approximately 350&# 194;°F (175ðC).
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Test the oil temperature by dropping a small piece of bread crust into the oil; if it turns golden brown immediately, the oil is ready. If it burns instantly, reduce heat and let it cool slightly.
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Using two teaspoons, scoop up the shrimp mixture and carefully form it into a 1-inch diameter ball.
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Gently drop the formed ball into the hot oil. Repeat with more mixture, ensuring you do not overcrowd the pan (about 8 balls at a time).
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Fry the shrimp balls for about 3 minutes, turning them occasionally with a slotted spoon to ensure they brown evenly on all sides.
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Once golden brown and cooked through, remove the shrimp balls from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
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Repeat the frying process with the remaining mixture until all shrimp balls are cooked.
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Arrange the warm shrimp balls on a serving platter and garnish with fresh parsley or other raw vegetables before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 5
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 367.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 21.8g34%
- Saturated Fat 7.1g36%
- Cholesterol 195.5mg66%
- Sodium 1213.8mg51%
- Total Carbohydrate 0.9g1%
- Dietary Fiber 0.0g0%
- Sugars 0.5g
- Protein 41.2g83%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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