Crispy Shrimp Bites (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 1 egg, whisked
02 - 1 teaspoon sesame oil
03 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
04 - 1 tablespoon soy sauce
05 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
06 - 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
07 - 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
08 - 1 tablespoon cornstarch (if needed for binding)
09 - Vegetable oil for cooking
10 - 1/2 cup panko or other breadcrumbs
11 - 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
12 - 1 lb shrimp, peeled and cleaned
13 - 1/4 cup finely sliced green onions

# Instructions:

01 - Dice the shrimp finely with a knife or give them a quick blitz in a food processor for a smoother texture. In a big bowl, combine the shrimp, breadcrumbs, egg, green onions, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. If the mix feels too wet, stir in cornstarch for thickness.
02 - Lightly wet your palms to keep the mix from sticking, then roll together small balls from the shrimp blend, around 1 to 1.5 inches wide. You should get between 20 and 25 balls in total.
03 - Pour vegetable oil into a frying pan until the bottom is fully covered and set it to medium-high heat. Let the oil heat properly for even frying.
04 - Drop the shrimp balls gently into the oil, making sure not to pack the pan too full. You might need to fry them in rounds. Flip them after 3-4 minutes when they turn golden. Keep frying until they're browned and cooked through.
05 - Transfer the cooked shrimp balls onto a plate that’s been lined with paper towels to soak up extra oil.
06 - Sprinkle on some chopped cilantro or sesame seeds for a finishing touch. Serve hot with sauces of your choice, like soy, lemon aioli, or sweet chili.

# Notes:

01 - If the shrimp mix seems too soft, pop the balls in the fridge for 20 to 30 minutes before frying so they stay together better.