π§π€π° Asian Cheese Ball with Shrimp & Water Chestnuts π§π€π°
What is it?
The Asian Cheese Ball with Shrimp & Water Chestnuts is a delicious and savory appetizer, combining creamy cheese with succulent shrimp and crunchy water chestnuts. This delectable dish is a fusion of Asian and Western flavors, making it a unique and delightful addition to any party or gathering.
History:
The exact origin of this dish is not well-documented, but it likely emerged as a fusion of Asian and Western culinary influences. Cheese balls, in general, have been popular in American cuisine for decades, while the addition of shrimp and water chestnuts gives it an Asian twist. It’s a testament to the creativity of home cooks and chefs who love to experiment with flavors.
Components:
- Cream Cheese: The creamy base that holds everything together.
- Shrimp: Cooked and chopped into small pieces, providing a seafood flavor.
- Water Chestnuts: Sliced or diced for a satisfying crunch.
- Green Onions: Chopped and mixed in for a fresh and savory flavor.
- Soy Sauce: Adds a salty, umami-rich note with an Asian touch.
- Sesame Oil: Enhances the dish with a nutty aroma.
- Garlic Powder: For a subtle garlic flavor.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: If you like it spicy, add a kick.
- Chopped Cilantro: Garnish for a burst of color and freshness.
- Crushed Almonds or Sesame Seeds: For coating the cheese ball.
Steps to Prepare:
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Prep Ingredients: Chop the shrimp, water chestnuts, green onions, and cilantro finely. This ensures that the ingredients mix well with the cream cheese.
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Mixing: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, chopped shrimp, water chestnuts, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
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Shape into a Ball: Once the mixture is well-mixed, shape it into a ball. You can do this by using plastic wrap to help form a round shape. Place it in the refrigerator for at least an hour to firm up.
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Coating: After the cheese ball has chilled, take it out and roll it in crushed almonds or sesame seeds. This adds a delightful crunch and flavor.
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Garnish: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a pop of color and freshness.
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Serve: Present the cheese ball on a platter with crackers, bread, or vegetable sticks for dipping.
Preparation Time:
- Preparation time should take around 15-20 minutes, including ingredient prep.
- Chilling the cheese ball for at least an hour is essential, but it can be made ahead and refrigerated for a day or two if needed.
This Asian Cheese Ball with Shrimp & Water Chestnuts is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a visual delight with its colorful and textured appearance. Enjoy making and sharing this unique appetizer with friends and family at your next gathering! π§π€π°π½οΈπ
Certainly, here are some nutrition facts and health information for the Asian Cheese Ball with Shrimp & Water Chestnuts:
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, based on a typical serving size):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 calories per serving.
- Total Fat: Varies based on the type and amount of cream cheese and nuts used, but it can be around 10-15 grams per serving.
- Saturated Fat: Typically 5-8 grams per serving.
- Cholesterol: Around 40-60 mg per serving, primarily from the shrimp and cream cheese.
- Sodium: About 300-400 mg per serving due to the soy sauce and salt.
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-8 grams per serving.
- Dietary Fiber: Minimal fiber content.
- Sugars: Minimal sugar content, mainly from natural sources in the ingredients.
- Protein: Around 5-8 grams per serving, primarily from the shrimp and cream cheese.
Health Information:
- Protein: Shrimp is a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Calcium: Cream cheese contributes to calcium intake, which is vital for bone health.
- Vitamins: Shrimp contains various vitamins, including B vitamins (B12, niacin, and riboflavin).
- Minerals: Shrimp is a source of essential minerals like selenium and iodine.
- Fiber: While the recipe is low in fiber, you can serve it with whole-grain crackers or bread for added fiber.
- Saturated Fat: Be mindful of the saturated fat content in this dish, mainly from the cream cheese. It’s recommended to consume such appetizers in moderation, especially if you’re watching your saturated fat intake.
- Sodium: The sodium content can be relatively high due to the soy sauce and salt. If you have dietary restrictions, consider using lower-sodium soy sauce or reducing the salt content.
Remember that these nutrition facts can vary depending on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients used in your recipe. If you have specific dietary concerns or are following a particular diet plan, you may want to adjust the ingredients to better suit your nutritional needs. Enjoy this appetizer in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
