Description

Wholesome Homemade Fish Balls featuring a blend of cod, shrimp, and optional squid create a delightful, textured bite perfect for a fun dinner night. These fish balls are made by processing fresh seafood with traditional seasonings and binders, then cooked by boiling and optionally fried for a crispy finish. They can also be prepared ahead and frozen for convenience.

Ingredients

Scale

Seafood

1 pound Cod fillet (a mild-flavored fish)
1/2 pound Shrimp (adds a sweet bite)
1/2 pound Squid (optional for texture)

Seasonings & 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)

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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 seafood mixture into a container, cover it, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting period helps the mixture to firm up for easier shaping.
Prepare for Shaping: Wet your hands with water to prevent the mixture from sticking as you shape it into bite-sized balls.
Boil Water: In a large saucepan, bring six cups of water to a rolling boil, preparing it for cooking the fish balls.
Shape and Cook: Take a handful of the chilled mixture, squeeze it into a ball, and gently drop it into the boiling water. Continue this process until all fish balls are cooked. They are done once they float to the surface, indicating they are cooked through.
For Freezing: If planning to store for later, shape the fish balls, allow them to cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a sealed container or bag.
Cook Frozen Fish Balls: When ready to eat, heat canola oil in a pan over medium heat. Fry the frozen fish balls until they turn golden brown and are heated through, for a deliciously crispy exterior.

Notes

Using a food processor ensures a smooth and uniform texture for the fish balls.
Chilling the mixture is crucial to help with shaping and prevents the balls from falling apart during cooking.
Boiling the fish balls before frying ensures they are fully cooked and tender inside.
Freezing the shaped balls allows for convenient meal prep and quick cooking later.
Frying frozen fish balls adds a delicious crispiness and enhances flavor.
Adjust salt to taste, especially if serving with salty dipping sauces.