Crispy Shrimp Balls Recipe with Sweet Chili Sauce | Easy Appetizer Idea
These crispy shrimp balls recipe are the ultimate appetizer! Juicy shrimp are seasoned, rolled, and fried to golden perfection, then paired with a tangy-sweet chili dipping sauce. Crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor—perfect for parties, game nights, or family dinners.
Equipment
- Food processor or sharp knife
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet (for chilling)
- Frying pan or deep fryer
- Slotted spoon
- Paper towels
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 2 scallions, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (for binding)
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- ½ cup flour
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Oil for frying
- Sweet chili sauce (for dipping)
- Optional: sesame seeds, fresh parsley, or chili flakes for garnish
Instructions
- Prep shrimp mixture: Mince shrimp finely or pulse in a food processor. Mix with garlic, ginger, scallions, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
- Chill mixture: Cover and refrigerate for 20 minutes to firm texture.
- Shape balls: Scoop small portions and roll into bite-sized balls.
- Coat: Roll each ball in flour, dip in beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
- Fry: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry shrimp balls in batches for 3–4 minutes until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Arrange on platter, garnish with sesame seeds or parsley, and serve hot with sweet chili sauce.
- Expert tip: Always test oil temperature before frying to avoid greasy coating.
Notes
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in airtight container for 2–3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in oven at 350°F (175°C) to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving.
- Variations: Try spicy chili shrimp balls, baked versions, cheese-filled centers, or sesame seed coatings.
- Tip: Chill mixture before shaping to prevent balls from falling apart during frying.