Delicious Chinese Shrimp Balls Appetizer in Minutes

Last Updated on February 13, 2026 by Leonardo Recipes Team

Picture the moment when your friends gather in your cozy kitchen, laughter filling the air as they catch a hint of something delicious wafting from the stove. That s when I serve my beloved Chinese Shrimp Balls Appetizer a dish that combines the fresh, succulent flavors of shrimp with the satisfying crunch of golden-fried perfection.

This recipe came to life on a spontaneous Saturday afternoon when I decided to create something special rather than reaching for our usual takeout menu. The flavors of ginger and sesame mingle beautifully, bringing an authentic Asian flair that s sure to impress.

Whether you re hosting a lively dinner party or simply want to elevate your weeknight meals, these shrimp balls are the perfect addition. They not only pack a punch of flavor but also come together in just 3 to 4 minutes of frying time. Trust me, once you take that first crispy bite, you ll be tempted to ditch the fast food for good! Let s dive into this easy, crowd-pleasing recipe!

Why Chinese Shrimp Balls Appetizer is a Must-Try?

Flavor Explosion: These shrimp balls are bursting with vibrant flavors from ginger, sesame, and a touch of soy sauce.
Quick Cooking: In just 3 to 4 minutes of frying, you can serve up a mouthwatering dish.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these bite-sized delights are sure to impress your guests.
Unique Texture: Enjoy the crispy exterior while savoring the tender, juicy shrimp inside.
Versatile Dipping: Pair them with sweet and sour sauce, plum sauce, or hot mustard for a delightful twist.

Looking for more inspiration? Check out my guide on creating perfect appetizers for any occasion!

Chinese Shrimp Balls Appetizer Ingredients

For the Shrimp Mixture

• Medium shrimp 1 pound, peeled and deveined; the star ingredient that gives these balls their delicious seafood flavor.
• Canned sliced water chestnuts 1/2 cup, drained or use 8 whole water chestnuts for extra crunch; adds a delightful texture.
• Green onion 1/2 medium, finely chopped; enhances freshness with its mild onion flavor.
• Grated ginger 1/2 teaspoon; this fragrant spice brings warmth and depth to the mixture.
• Light soy sauce 2 teaspoons; adds a savory saltiness that complements the shrimp perfectly.
• Rice wine (or rice vinegar) 1 teaspoon; lends a hint of acidity and brightness.
• Sugar 1/2 teaspoon; balances the savory notes while enhancing the overall flavor.
• Sesame oil 1/4 teaspoon; infuses a nutty aroma that elevates this dish to new heights.
• Ground black pepper 1/8 teaspoon, or to taste; adds a subtle kick and enhances the other flavors.
• Large egg 1; acts as a binder to hold the mixture together.
• Cornstarch 3 teaspoons; gives these fried shrimp balls their desirable crispiness.

For Frying

• Vegetable oil Enough for frying; make sure the oil is preheated to 350 °F for perfect crispness.

With these ingredients, you ll have everything you need to whip up a batch of delightful Chinese Shrimp Balls Appetizer that your family and friends will rave about!

How to Make Chinese Shrimp Balls Appetizer

1. Soak the shrimp in warm, lightly salted water for 5 minutes to enhance flavor and texture. Meanwhile, preheat your oil for deep-frying to 350 °F.

2. Rinse the shrimp in cold water, then drain and pat them dry with paper towels. This step ensures that your shrimp remain juicy and delicious.

3. Prepare the water chestnuts by running them under warm water if using canned ones. Drain thoroughly to eliminate any tinny taste that might affect the dish.

4. Mince both the shrimp and water chestnuts until finely chopped. This will help create a cohesive mixture that s easy to shape.

5. Combine the minced shrimp and water chestnuts in a medium bowl. Mix in the chopped green onion, grated ginger, soy sauce, rice wine, sugar, sesame oil, pepper, egg white, and cornstarch. Ensure everything is well mixed for balanced flavors.

6. Form the mixture into small balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter. The consistent size helps them cook evenly and look appealing.

7. Fry the shrimp balls carefully in the hot oil, adding only a few at a time to prevent overcrowding. Deep-fry for about 3 to 4 minutes, turning them constantly until they become crisp and golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.

8. Serve the shrimp balls warm with your choice of dipping sauce, such as sweet and sour sauce, plum sauce, or hot mustard for that perfect burst of flavor.

Optional: Sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro for extra freshness before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Chinese Shrimp Balls Appetizer Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own!

• Dairy-Free: Substitute the egg with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) for binding.
• Spicy Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of Sriracha or chili paste to the shrimp mixture for a fiery twist. The heat complements the flavors beautifully!
• Extra Crunch: Coat the formed shrimp balls in panko breadcrumbs before frying for an even crispier exterior. Your taste buds will thank you for this textural delight.
• Herb Infusion: Mix in finely chopped cilantro or basil for a fresh herbal note that elevates the overall flavor. It s a refreshing option that brightens the dish just perfectly.
• Sweet & Savory: Drizzle honey over the cooked shrimp balls before serving to balance the savory depth with a touch of sweetness. This unexpected pairing is simply delightful!
• Coconut Coating: Roll the shrimp balls in shredded coconut before frying for a tropical twist. The sweet coconut pairs wonderfully with the shrimp.
• Veggie Boost: Add finely chopped mushrooms or bell peppers to the shrimp mixture for added flavor and nutrition. They ll blend right in, enhancing every bite!
• Sesame Seeds: Toss some sesame seeds into the oil before frying for an aromatic flavor and nutty scent, adding an extra layer of indulgence to each bite.

What to Serve with Chinese Shrimp Balls Appetizer?

Picture a festive gathering filled with friends and the delightful aroma of crispy shrimp balls mingling with enticing dishes that create a feast for the senses.

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, this simple side absorbs the savory juices, balancing the rich flavors of the shrimp balls beautifully.

• Crispy Egg Rolls: Packed with crisp veggies and savory meat, these crunchy bites bring an extra layer of texture to your meal, making every bite a culinary delight.

• Sweet and Sour Sauce: A classic pairing that enhances the shrimp balls flavors, this tangy sauce adds a vibrant zing that guests will love.

• Charred Asparagus: Tender yet slightly charred, these healthy greens provide a fresh, earthy contrast that complements the rich shrimp flavors perfectly.

• Mango Salad: Bright, vibrant diced mango tossed with lime juice and cilantro adds a refreshing sweetness, balancing the savory, crispy shrimp balls.

• Cucumber Pickles: Lightly pickled cucumbers bring a tangy crunch that cuts through the richness, enhancing the overall flavor experience.

• Chilled Green Tea: Refreshingly light, this beverage complements the flavors of the shrimp balls, making it a perfect drink choice to enjoy while you nibble.

• Chocolate Spring Rolls: For dessert, these sweet, crispy treats filled with melted chocolate provide a delightful contrast to the savory shrimp, offering a sweet ending.

Every dish contributes to a meal that delights the senses, turning your gathering into a memorable celebration of flavors!

Storage Tips for Chinese Shrimp Balls Appetizer

• Room Temperature: Enjoy the shrimp balls within 2 hours of frying. Beyond that, it s best to store them to preserve freshness.

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness avoid the microwave, which can make them soggy.

• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked shrimp balls in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and enjoy within 2 months for optimal flavor.

• Reheating: To reheat frozen shrimp balls, let them thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat in the oven at 375 °F for about 10-12 minutes until heated through and crispy.

Expert Tips for Chinese Shrimp Balls Appetizer

• Perfectly Dry Shrimp: Ensure that your shrimp are thoroughly dried after rinsing. Excess moisture can lead to greasy shrimp balls when frying.

• Consistent Sizing: Aim for each shrimp ball to be about 1 inch in diameter. This uniformity helps them cook evenly and ensures a delightful crunch in every bite.

• Don t Overcrowd: When frying, add only a few shrimp balls at a time to the oil. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy balls instead of the desired crispy texture.

• Check Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature at 350 °F. If the oil is too cool, your shrimp balls will absorb more oil, compromising their crispiness.

• Mixing Power: For a smoother texture, consider using a food processor to mince the shrimp and water chestnuts. This creates a cohesive mixture, enhancing the flavor of your Chinese Shrimp Balls Appetizer.

Make Ahead Options

These Chinese Shrimp Balls Appetizer are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the shrimp mixture up to 24 hours in advance, mixing all ingredients and storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Form the mixture into balls just before frying to keep them fresh and prevent sogginess. If you want to make them even earlier, you can freeze the formed shrimp balls for up to 3 months; just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. When you re ready to cook, simply deep-fry the frozen shrimp balls straight from the freezer no need to thaw until they re crisp and golden. This way, you ll enjoy restaurant-quality appetizers with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining!

Chinese Shrimp Balls Appetizer Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
You can use medium shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Look for shrimp labeled as raw for the best flavor and texture. Fresh shrimp are always preferred when available, but frozen shrimp work great too; just ensure they are completely thawed and dried before use.

How should I store leftover Chinese Shrimp Balls Appetizer?
Store any leftover shrimp balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crispiness, reheat them in the oven at 375 °F for about 10-12 minutes. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make them soggy.

Can I freeze Chinese Shrimp Balls Appetizer?
Absolutely! To freeze, lay the cooked shrimp balls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

What should I do if my shrimp balls don t hold together?
If your shrimp balls are falling apart, it may be due to too much moisture in the mixture. Make sure your shrimp are dried thoroughly after rinsing. Additionally, if the mixture feels too watery, try adding a little more cornstarch to help bind the ingredients better.

Are Chinese Shrimp Balls safe for pets?
Shrimp is generally safe for pets in small amounts, but be cautious with the spices and seasonings. It s best to avoid feeding them the shrimp balls as they contain ingredients like soy sauce and sesame oil that might not be suitable for pets. Always consult your veterinarian if unsure about specific ingredients.

How do I know when the shrimp balls are done frying?
The shrimp balls are done when they turn a beautiful golden brown color and float to the top of the oil. This usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes of frying. Make sure to turn them constantly for even cooking, and use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at 350 °F for the best results.