Introducing the tantalizing “Asian Cheese Ball with Shrimp & Water Chestnuts,” a fusion delight that brings together the creamy richness of cheese with the exotic flavors of Asia! 🧀🍤 This recipe takes just 15 minutes of prep time, resulting in a delectable spread perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual lunch, a snack with friends, or a party appetizer.
Let’s dive into the culinary adventure!
Ingredients:
- 2 blocks of cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1 cup of sliced water chestnuts
- 1/2 cup of cooked shrimp, diced
- 1 tablespoon of chopped cilantro
- 1 tablespoon of pickled ginger
- 2 tablespoons of wasabi paste
- 2 tablespoons of toasted sesame seeds
Instructions:
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Mix the Flavors: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cream cheese, soy sauce, sliced water chestnuts, diced shrimp, chopped cilantro, pickled ginger, and 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds. Stir until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, creating a creamy and flavorful base for your cheese ball.
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Add Some Heat: Gradually add the wasabi paste to the mixture, stirring gently until you reach your desired level of spiciness. Adjust the amount of wasabi according to your taste preferences, whether you prefer a subtle hint of heat or a fiery kick!
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Chill Out: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the cheese mixture for at least one hour. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together while also firming up the mixture, making it easier to shape into a ball later on.
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Shape and Roll: Once chilled, remove the cheese mixture from the refrigerator. Using clean hands, shape the mixture into a ball, ensuring it holds together firmly.
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Coat with Crunch: Roll the cheese ball in the remaining tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds, covering the entire surface. The sesame seeds add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, complementing the creamy cheese and bold Asian ingredients.
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Chill Until Ready: Place the coated cheese ball back in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. This step allows the flavors to further develop while keeping the cheese ball firm and easy to slice.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the Asian Cheese Ball with an array of accompaniments such as fresh sliced celery stalks, carrot sticks, toasted pita bread, or grilled chicken slices.
- Get creative with your presentation by arranging the cheese ball on a platter surrounded by colorful vegetables and crackers for dipping.
- Pair this flavorful spread with your favorite Asian-inspired cocktails or refreshing beverages for a complete culinary experience.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 319.9
- Total Fat: 27.3g
- Saturated Fat: 11.6g
- Cholesterol: 84.5mg
- Sodium: 271.9mg
- Carbohydrates: 8.9g
- Fiber: 3.5g
- Sugars: 0.4g
- Protein: 12.3g
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a savory snack, this Asian-inspired Cheese Ball with Shrimp & Water Chestnuts is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and creamy texture. Enjoy the delightful combination of cheese, shrimp, and aromatic Asian spices in every bite! 🎉
