Crispy Shrimp and Cheddar Cheese Balls
Indulge in these delectable Crispy Shrimp and Cheddar Cheese Balls, perfect for appetizers or snack time! With a delectable blend of rich cheddar cheese, succulent shrimp, and a hint of cilantro and jalapeño, these cheese balls are bursting with flavor. Coated in a light, crispy batter and golden breadcrumbs, they are deep-fried to perfection for that irresistible crunch. Easy to make and even easier to share, they are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any gathering or party!
N/A
Servings
40
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cheddar cheese, grated
1/2 lb (Grated)
Shrimp, peeled and chopped
6 ounces (Peeled and chopped)
Cilantro, chopped
1 1/2 tablespoons (Chopped)
Jalapeno chile, seeded and chopped
1 tablespoon (Seeded and chopped)
Chili powder
1 pinch (N/A)
Vegetable oil for frying
N/A (For frying)
Flour
1 cup (N/A)
Cornstarch
1/2 cup (N/A)
Baking powder
3/4 teaspoon (N/A)
Salt
1 pinch (N/A)
Water
1 cup (N/A)
Vegetable oil
2 tablespoons (N/A)
Breadcrumbs
1 - 1 1/2 cups (For rolling)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, combine the grated cheddar cheese, chopped shrimp, cilantro, jalapeño, and chili powder. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2
Using your hands, form the mixture into 3/4-inch balls and place them on a tray. Cover and set aside.
3
In a heavy saucepan or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Ensure there is enough oil for deep frying.
4
In a shallow dish, combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and a pinch of salt, stirring to mix thoroughly.
5
Make a well in the center of the dry mixture, then add the water and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Whisk the mixture until smooth to create a batter.
6
Prepare another shallow dish with breadcrumbs for coating the cheese balls.
7
Dip each cheese ball in the batter, allowing excess to drip off, then roll in breadcrumbs until fully coated.
8
Carefully place the coated cheese balls into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook until golden brown, approximately 3-4 minutes.
9
Once cooked, remove the cheese balls and drain them on paper towels. Serve hot and enjoy your crispy creation!
Nutrition Information
2.7g
Fat
3.3g
Carbs
2g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy Shrimp and Cheddar Cheese Balls?
They are a delectable appetizer featuring a blend of cheddar cheese, chopped shrimp, cilantro, and jalapeño, coated in batter and breadcrumbs then deep-fried until golden.
What kind of cheese is used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 1/2 lb of grated cheddar cheese for a rich and savory flavor profile.
How should the shrimp be prepared?
You will need 6 ounces of shrimp that have been peeled and chopped into small pieces before mixing.
What herbs and spices provide flavor to these cheese balls?
The mixture is seasoned with 1 1/2 tablespoons of chopped cilantro, 1 tablespoon of seeded and chopped jalapeño, and a pinch of chili powder.
What size should the shrimp and cheese balls be formed into?
The mixture should be hand-formed into balls approximately 3/4-inch in diameter.
What is the required temperature for the frying oil?
The vegetable oil should be heated to 350°F (175°C) in a heavy saucepan or deep fryer.
What ingredients are used for the dry batter mixture?
The dry batter consists of 1 cup of flour, 1/2 cup of cornstarch, 3/4 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt.
How is the wet batter created?
Make a well in the center of the dry mixture and add 1 cup of water and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, then whisk until smooth.
What is used for the final coating to make them crispy?
The balls are rolled in 1 to 1 1/2 cups of breadcrumbs after being dipped in the batter.
How long do the shrimp balls need to fry?
They should be fried for approximately 3-4 minutes until they turn golden brown.
How should the cheese balls be served?
Serve them hot after draining the excess oil on paper towels for the best taste and texture.
What is the calorie count for one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 40 calories.
How much fat is in a serving of these cheese balls?
There is approximately 2.7g of fat per serving.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving provides about 2g of protein.
Are there many carbohydrates in this snack?
There are approximately 3.3g of carbohydrates per serving.
Should I fry all the balls at the same time?
It is best to fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which ensures even cooking.
How do I prepare the jalapeño for this recipe?
The jalapeño should be seeded and then finely chopped to equal about one tablespoon.
What type of oil is recommended for frying?
Vegetable oil is recommended for deep frying these shrimp balls.
What happens to the cheese when fried?
The cheddar cheese melts inside while the outer coating becomes crispy, creating a delicious contrast.
Is baking powder necessary for the batter?
Yes, 3/4 teaspoon of baking powder is used to help the batter achieve a light and crispy texture.
How do I ensure the breadcrumbs stick to the balls?
Dip the balls into the wet batter first, let the excess drip off, and then immediately roll them in the breadcrumbs.
Can I make these ahead of time?
While best served fresh, you can form the balls and set them aside covered before the frying stage.
What is the role of cornstarch in the batter?
The 1/2 cup of cornstarch helps create a lighter, crunchier coating than flour alone.
Is this recipe suitable for parties?
Yes, they are excellent party food and finger food for any gathering.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 13 total ingredients used in this recipe.
Is salt included in the seasoning?
A pinch of salt is included in the dry batter mixture for seasoning.
What texture should the center of the ball have?
The center should be soft and melty from the cheddar cheese and tender shrimp pieces.
How much cilantro is needed?
The recipe requires 1 1/2 tablespoons of chopped cilantro.
What is the final color of the shrimp balls?
They should be cooked until they reach a beautiful golden brown color.
Is there any liquid in the batter other than water?
In addition to 1 cup of water, 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil are whisked into the batter.