Description
These wholesome homemade fish balls combine tender cod fillet, sweet shrimp, and optional squid to create a delightful and textured dish. Perfect for a fun dinner night, these fish balls are seasoned with garlic, onion, and spices, then boiled and optionally fried for a crisp finish. They can be enjoyed fresh or frozen for later use.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Cod fillet (a mild-flavored fish)
- 1/2 pound Shrimp (adds a sweet bite)
- 1/2 pound Squid (optional for texture)
Seasonings and Binders
- 2 cloves Garlic (crushed)
- 1 small Onion (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon Sugar (for rounding out flavors)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon White ground pepper
- 1/2 cup All-purpose flour (for binding)
- 1/4 cup Corn starch (for lightness)
- 1 large Egg (as a binder)
For Cooking
- 1 cup Canola oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Place the cod fillet, shrimp, and optional squid in a food processor. Add crushed garlic, chopped onion, sugar, salt, white ground pepper, all-purpose flour, corn starch, canola oil, and egg. Process until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Chill the Mixture: Transfer the processed mixture to a container. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and to firm up the mixture for easier shaping.
- Prepare for Shaping: Wet your hands with water to prevent sticking, then scoop and shape the fish mixture into small, even-sized balls.
- Boil Water: Bring six cups of water to a rolling boil in a large saucepan, preparing it for cooking the fish balls.
- Shape and Cook: Carefully drop the shaped fish balls into the boiling water. Cook them until they float to the surface, indicating they are done. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain.
- For Freezing: If you wish to store for later use, form the fish balls, let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for freezing.
- Cook Frozen Fish Balls: When ready to eat, heat canola oil in a pan over medium heat and fry the frozen fish balls until they develop a golden brown color and a crispy exterior.
Notes
- Optional squid adds texture but can be omitted for a simpler fish ball.
- Wetting hands before shaping prevents the mixture from sticking.
- Boiling the fish balls until they float ensures they are cooked through.
- Freezing fish balls after forming makes for an easy-to-cook meal anytime.
- Frying after boiling gives the fish balls a crispy texture and richer flavor.
