If you’re craving something that bursts with vibrant flavors and a touch of heat, let me introduce you to the Spicy Baked Shrimp Balls with Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe. This dish delivers tender, juicy shrimp combined with aromatic garlic, shallots, and fiery Thai chilies, all baked to golden perfection. Each bite offers a wonderful contrast between the succulent shrimp balls and the sweet, tangy chili sauce that perfectly balances the spice. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or a main dish, these spicy baked shrimp balls are a sure way to impress your taste buds and your guests alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simple, fresh ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays an essential role—from the luscious shrimp that provide a tender base, to the fragrant garlic and shallots that build depth, while the Thai chili peppers deliver just the right amount of heat.
- 1 ½ pounds shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star ingredient offering a delicate seafood flavor and firm texture.
- 1 tablespoon canola oil: Perfect for sautéing aromatics without overpowering other flavors.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Adds a warm, pungent kick that enhances every bite.
- 2 shallots, chopped: Bring a mild onion sweetness and subtle depth.
- 3 Thai chili peppers, seeded and chopped: Provide the dish’s signature spicy flair without overwhelming heat.
- Juice of one lime: Injects a bright, citrusy tang that lifts and balances the richness.
- 2 egg whites: Act as a binder to keep the shrimp balls tender and cohesive.
- ½ cup Panko bread crumbs: Give a light, crispy texture and help hold the mixture together.
- 2 green onions, chopped (green parts only): Add a fresh, mild onion flavor and vibrant color.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro: Offers a refreshing herbal note that complements the spice.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances overall flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon pepper: Adds a subtle heat aside from the chilies.
- Cooking spray: Ensures the shrimp balls bake up golden and don’t stick.
- Sweet chili sauce: The perfect dip that rounds out the spicy baked shrimp balls with sweet chili sauce recipe, adding sweetness and zest.
How to Make Spicy Baked Shrimp Balls with Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Get your oven ready by preheating it to 350℉. This even heat will help the shrimp balls bake perfectly, developing a golden color while locking in moisture for juicy bites.
Step 2: Prepare Shrimp Mixture
For the best texture, finely chop the shrimp in a food processor until you reach a coarse paste consistency. Transfer this to a mixing bowl, then gently fold in the egg whites, panko crumbs, chopped green onions, cilantro, salt, and the juice of one lime. This combination ensures your shrimp balls are flavorful, tender, and slightly tangy from the citrus.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics (Optional but Recommended)
In a skillet over medium heat, warm the canola oil and sauté the minced garlic, chopped shallots, and seeded Thai chili peppers until they turn translucent and fragrant. This step softens the aromatics and mellows their raw edges, creating a mellow but lively flavor base.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Let your sautéed mixture cool slightly before folding it into the shrimp mixture. This helps spread the aromatic flavors evenly throughout the balls without cooking the egg whites prematurely.
Step 5: Form Shrimp Balls
Using your hands or a small scoop, shape the mixture into 1-inch balls. Arrange them evenly on a baking sheet sprayed with cooking spray to prevent sticking. The size is perfect for even cooking and delivering a satisfying bite every time.
Step 6: Bake and Broil
Bake your shrimp balls for 15 to 17 minutes until they’re cooked through and firm to the touch. Then, turn on the broiler for about two minutes to achieve a golden-brown crispy exterior. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn—this finishing touch adds irresistible color and texture.
Step 7: Serve with Sweet Chili Sauce
Once baked, serve your spicy shrimp balls hot alongside a bowl of sweet chili sauce. This sweet and tangy accompaniment perfectly complements the heat, making every bite a delightful balance of flavors.
How to Serve Spicy Baked Shrimp Balls with Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Garnish your shrimp balls with fresh cilantro leaves or thinly sliced green onions to add a pop of color and an extra layer of fresh, herbal brightness. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds also lends a subtle nutty crunch that pairs beautifully with the sweet chili sauce.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light, refreshing sides like a crisp Asian-style cucumber salad or a simple jasmine rice pilaf. These complements allow the spicy baked shrimp balls to shine while providing a balanced, complete meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the shrimp balls on bamboo skewers with small dipping cups of sweet chili sauce on the side. Alternatively, place them atop fresh lettuce leaves for a handheld appetizer or toss some in a noodle bowl with crunchy vegetables and herbs for a fusion-inspired meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover spicy baked shrimp balls with sweet chili sauce recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for a convenient and delicious snack or meal.
Freezing
To freeze, place the shrimp balls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about an hour. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing much texture or flavor.
Reheating
Reheat shrimp balls in a preheated oven at 350℉ for 10-12 minutes or until warmed through. This method maintains their crisp exterior better than microwaving, which can make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the texture of your shrimp balls.
How spicy are these shrimp balls?
The heat comes from Thai chili peppers, which are moderately spicy. You can adjust the number of peppers to your preference or remove the seeds for less heat.
Can I bake instead of sautéing the aromatics?
Sautéing the garlic, shallots, and chilies enhances their flavors, but if you prefer, you can mix them fresh into the shrimp blend for a lighter, more pungent taste.
What can I substitute for Panko bread crumbs?
If you don’t have Panko, regular bread crumbs or crushed crackers will work, though Panko provides a lighter, crispier texture.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes! These shrimp balls can be made ahead and refrigerated or frozen, making them perfect for quick lunches or last-minute dinners.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try this Spicy Baked Shrimp Balls with Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes for a flavorful yet simple seafood treat. With its enticing combination of spice, sweetness, and fresh herbs, it’s impossible not to fall in love with every bite. So grab your ingredients, get baking, and get ready to impress everyone around your table!
Print
Spicy Baked Shrimp Balls with Sweet Chili Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Halal
Description
These Spicy Baked Shrimp Balls are a flavorful and easy appetizer combining fresh shrimp with aromatic garlic, shallots, and Thai chili peppers. Baked to golden perfection and served with sweet chili sauce, they offer a perfect balance of spice and zest in a healthy preparation.
Ingredients
Shrimp Balls
- 1 ½ pounds shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 shallots, chopped
- 3 Thai chili peppers, seeded and chopped
- Juice of one lime
- 2 egg whites
- ½ cup Panko bread crumbs
- 2 green onions, chopped (green parts only)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- Cooking spray
Serving
- Sweet chili sauce (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350℉ (175℃) to ensure it’s ready for baking the shrimp balls.
- Prepare Shrimp Mixture: Finely chop the peeled and deveined shrimp in a food processor until finely minced. Transfer the chopped shrimp to a mixing bowl and add egg whites, Panko bread crumbs, chopped green onions, cilantro, salt, and the juice of one lime. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Sauté Aromatics (Optional): Heat canola oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, chopped shallots, and seeded Thai chili peppers. Sauté until the mixture becomes translucent and fragrant, then remove from heat and allow it to cool.
- Combine Ingredients: Once the sautéed aromatics have cooled, add them to the shrimp mixture. Stir well to incorporate the flavors throughout the mixture.
- Form Shrimp Balls: Using your hands or a small scoop, shape the mixture into 1-inch diameter balls. Place them evenly spaced on a baking sheet that has been lightly coated with cooking spray.
- Bake and Broil: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the shrimp balls for 15 to 17 minutes until cooked through. For a golden-brown finish, switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove the shrimp balls from the oven and serve warm with sweet chili sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy this spicy and savory appetizer as a perfect party treat or snack.
Notes
- For milder heat, reduce the amount of Thai chili peppers or remove seeds completely.
- You can substitute Panko bread crumbs with gluten-free crumbs if needed.
- Ensure shrimp is finely chopped to help the balls hold together well during baking.
- For extra crispiness, spray the shrimp balls lightly with cooking spray before baking.
- These shrimp balls can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to 4 hours before baking.
