Easy Crispy Vietnamese Shrimp Balls

Ingredients

• 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 cup canola oil, for frying

Directions

1. In a food processor, blend the shrimp, garlic, cilantro, pepper, fish sauce, cornstarch, sugar, and baking powder until a paste forms.
2. Form the paste into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the shrimp balls until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Remove the shrimp balls from the skillet, and drain on a paper-towel lined plate.
5. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Interesting Facts

• Shrimp balls originated in Vietnam, and are a popular street food in Asian countries.
• The shrimp balls can be baked instead of fried for a healthier option.
• These shrimp balls can be made ahead of time and frozen for a quick snack.