The moment I took a bite of these Asian Pork and Shrimp Meatballs, a wave of flavors danced across my palate, reminding me why homemade meals can never be replaced by fast food. It was during a cozy evening at home when I decided it was time to switch things up in the kitchen — a little creativity was just what I needed to shake off the mundane dinner routine.
Using a perfect blend of tender pork and plump shrimp, mixed with aromatic green onions and a hint of ginger, these meatballs offer a burst of deliciousness that leaves you wanting more. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, taking just about an hour from prep to plate! Whether you’re hosting friends or simply enjoying a quiet night, these meatballs serve as a delightful centerpiece that’s sure to impress.
Ready to elevate your weeknight dinners? Let’s dive into making these mouthwatering meatballs — your taste buds will thank you!
Why are Asian Pork and Shrimp Meatballs irresistible?
Flavor Explosion: The unique combination of ground pork and shrimp brings a delightful taste that’s hard to resist.
Quick and Easy: Whip these up in under an hour! Perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy them as an appetizer, or pair with rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: These meatballs are guaranteed to impress your guests, sparking compliments and requests for the recipe.
Healthy and Homemade: Ditch the fast food! These meatballs are made from fresh ingredients, giving you peace of mind without sacrificing flavor.
Asian Pork and Shrimp Meatballs Ingredients
For the Meatballs
• Ground pork – 225 grams; the star ingredient that provides a rich, savory base for your meatballs.
• Raw shrimp – 180 grams; fresh seafood adds a sweet and succulent texture to the mix.
• Chopped green onion – ½ cup; these add a touch of freshness and a mild onion flavor.
• Garlic clove – 1 grated or minced; bring in a fragrant punch that elevates the overall taste.
• Fish sauce – 1 ½ teaspoons; a little goes a long way in enhancing umami flavors in your dish.
• Honey – 1 ½ teaspoons; balances the savory notes with a hint of sweetness.
• Sesame oil – 1 teaspoon; infuses a nutty aroma that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
• Light soy sauce – ¾ teaspoon; adds depth without overpowering the dish.
• Grated ginger – ½ teaspoon; introduces warmth and spice for a delightful kick.
• White pepper – ¼ teaspoon; offers a milder heat compared to black pepper, perfect for Asian cuisine.
• Salt – ¼ teaspoon; enhances all the flavors, ensuring a well-seasoned meatball.
Optional Dipping Sauce
• Sweet chili sauce – for an extra flavor boost, dip your meatballs for a hint of sweetness and heat.
• Soy sauce – combine with some rice vinegar for a tangy twist that pairs perfectly with the meatballs.
With these Asian Pork and Shrimp Meatballs ingredients on hand, you’re just moments away from creating a dish that’s not only delicious but sure to become a family favorite!
How to Make Asian Pork and Shrimp Meatballs
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Pulse the Shrimp: Start by adding the raw shrimp to a food processor. Pulse a few times until it transforms into a smooth paste, ensuring a perfect texture for your meatballs.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shrimp paste, ground pork, chopped green onions, grated garlic, grated ginger, fish sauce, sesame oil, honey, soy sauce, white pepper, and salt.
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Mix Thoroughly: Using a stiff spoon or your hands, mix the ingredients together until well combined. Once mixed, cover the bowl and refrigerate the meatball mixture for at least one hour, or up to a full day, letting the flavors meld beautifully.
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for baking your meatballs to tender perfection.
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Form Meatballs: Take the pork and shrimp mixture out of the fridge. With your hands, form small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
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Bake Meatballs: Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for about 25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
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Serve Warm: Serve your delicious Asian Pork and Shrimp Meatballs immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy the flavor explosion!
Optional: Drizzle some sweet chili sauce over the meatballs for an exciting flavor twist.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Asian Pork and Shrimp Meatballs Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these delectable meatballs your own with these fun twists!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute light soy sauce with tamari to make a gluten-free version without sacrificing flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of Sriracha or chili flakes to your mix for a delightful heat that’s sure to ignite your taste buds!
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Herb Boost: Mix in a tablespoon of fresh cilantro or basil for a fragrant, herbal component that enhances the overall flavor profile.
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Veggie-Packed: Incorporate finely grated carrots or zucchini to the meatball mixture for added moisture and nutritional value.
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Baked Sweet Potato: Serve these meatballs over a bed of baked sweet potato instead of rice for a deliciously sweet and nutritious alternative.
Elevating your home dining experience has never been easier! Each of these variations opens up a world of exciting flavor possibilities that you and your family will love.
Make Ahead Options
These Asian Pork and Shrimp Meatballs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the meatball mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine all ingredients in a bowl, cover, and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring a more delicious experience when you finally cook them. When you’re ready to serve, just form the mixture into balls and bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. For optimal quality, store them in an airtight container and keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to enjoy. With these make ahead tips, you can easily whip up a mouthwatering dinner with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Asian Pork and Shrimp Meatballs?
Delightful pairings can transform your meal from good to unforgettable, creating harmony on your plate.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice serves as a perfect backdrop, soaking up the delicious sauce while adding a lovely texture.
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Crunchy Asian Slaw: A colorful mix of cabbage and carrots tossed in a zesty dressing adds a refreshing crunch that balances the savory meatballs beautifully.
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Teriyaki Noodles: Soft, stir-fried noodles drizzled with sweet teriyaki sauce offer a delightful sweet and savory twist that complements the meatballs.
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Miso Soup: This warm, umami-packed soup enhances the flavors of your meatballs, providing a comforting drink alongside your main dish.
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Dipping Sauces: Try a duo of sweet chili and soy sauce for a tantalizing experience. The sweet and spicy hints elevate each meatball bite.
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Crispy Wontons: These crunchy delights not only add texture but also serve as fun vessels for scooping up your flavorful meatballs, creating a unique serving experience.
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Chilled Sake: This light and smooth drink pairs beautifully with the flavors of the meatballs, enhancing your Asian-inspired meal.
Pair these sides with your Asian Pork and Shrimp Meatballs to create a vibrant and memorable dining experience!
Tips for the Best Asian Pork and Shrimp Meatballs
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Chill for Flavor: Refrigerating the meatball mixture for at least one hour allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a tastier dish.
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Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough meatballs. Your goal is a light, tender texture with these Asian Pork and Shrimp Meatballs.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and green onions make a world of difference in flavor. Opt for the freshest ingredients to elevate your dish.
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Perfectly Sized Balls: Aim for uniform meatballs about 1 inch in diameter to ensure even cooking.
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Check Doneness: Ensure the meatballs are cooked through by using an instant-read thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
How to Store and Freeze Asian Pork and Shrimp Meatballs
Fridge: Store leftover Asian Pork and Shrimp Meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked meatballs on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat frozen meatballs straight from the freezer in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Thawing: If desired, thaw frozen meatballs in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for quicker and more even warming.
Asian Pork and Shrimp Meatballs Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose ripe shrimp for the recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for fresh shrimp with a firm texture and a slight sheen. Avoid shrimp with dark spots or a strong fishy smell. Fresh shrimp should also feel slightly cold to the touch. Alternatively, if you’re using frozen shrimp, ensure they are well-packaged, and thaw them in the refrigerator before pulsing into a paste.
How should I store leftover Asian Pork and Shrimp Meatballs?
Store your leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool down to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation. You can always add a layer of parchment paper between them to keep their shape and texture intact!
Can I freeze Asian Pork and Shrimp Meatballs?
Very! To freeze, first place cooked meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are not touching. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat straight from the freezer in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
What if my meatball mixture is too wet?
If you find your meatball mixture is too wet, don’t worry! You can add a bit of bread crumbs or cornstarch, one tablespoon at a time, until the mixture holds together well without becoming too dense. Just make sure to mix gently to maintain that tender texture!
Are these meatballs suitable for anyone with allergies?
Always check with your guests! These Asian Pork and Shrimp Meatballs contain shrimp and fish sauce, which can pose allergies. For a seafood-free option, you can substitute shrimp with finely ground chicken or turkey. Be mindful of soy sauce if anyone has a soy allergy; consider using tamari as a gluten-free alternative!
Savory Asian Pork and Shrimp Meatballs: A Flavorful Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by adding the raw shrimp to a food processor. Pulse a few times until it transforms into a smooth paste, ensuring a perfect texture for your meatballs.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shrimp paste, ground pork, chopped green onions, grated garlic, grated ginger, fish sauce, sesame oil, honey, soy sauce, white pepper, and salt.
- Using a stiff spoon or your hands, mix the ingredients together until well combined. Once mixed, cover the bowl and refrigerate the meatball mixture for at least one hour, or up to a full day.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) for baking your meatballs.
- Take the pork and shrimp mixture out of the fridge. With your hands, form small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake the meatballs for about 25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve your delicious Asian Pork and Shrimp Meatballs immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.