When I think of comfort food, Asian Fish Balls with Homemade Sweet and Sour Sauce immediately comes to mind. These little bites of joy are packed with flavor, and the sweet and sour sauce adds a delightful zing that keeps you coming back for more. They’re not just delicious; they’re versatile and perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a cozy night in. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and discover how to make these scrumptious fish balls from scratch!

Why I Love This Recipe

The beauty of Asian Fish Balls is their adaptability. You can use a variety of fish fillets, such as cod, seabass, or salmon, making it a great way to utilize whatever you have on hand. The texture is incredibly satisfying, with a crisp exterior and a tender, flavorful center. Pairing these fish balls with a homemade sweet and sour sauce elevates the dish to a whole new level, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. Plus, they are fun to make and even more enjoyable to eat!

What You’ll Gather

10 oz fish fillet (cod, seabass, salmon, etc.), steamed and flaked
1 tablespoon breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons parsley, chopped
2 cups ciabatta bread, off the crust, cubed
Milk, for soaking
1 egg, beaten
1 clove garlic, finely minced
All-purpose flour
1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)
1 tablespoon spring onion, chopped, to serve
1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted, to serve
Vegetable oil (for frying)
1 cup sugar
Juice of 1 orange
1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
½ cup pineapple juice
1 teaspoon minced garlic
2 tablespoons soy sauce
½ cup white vinegar
A splash of sriracha (adjust to taste)
½ cup warm water
½ cup cornstarch

Tools of the Trade

Mixing bowl – essential for combining ingredients.
Frying pan – for cooking the fish balls to golden perfection.
Whisk – for beating the egg and mixing the sauce.
Measuring cups and spoons – accuracy is key!
Wooden spoon – perfect for mixing and forming the fish balls.

Build Asian Fish Balls with Homemade Sweet and Sour Sauce Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Ciabatta

Begin by soaking the ciabatta bread cubes in milk. Allow them to soak for about 10 minutes until they are soft and mushy. This will help bind the fish balls together and give them a lovely texture.

Step 2: Mix the Fish Ball Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the steamed and flaked fish fillet, soaked ciabatta, breadcrumbs, parsley, beaten egg, minced garlic, and any optional ingredients like orange zest and grated ginger. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Shape the Fish Balls

With your hands, take a small amount of the mixture and form it into balls, about the size of a golf ball. Make sure they are compact to prevent them from falling apart during cooking.

Step 4: Prepare for Frying

Set up a dredging station with all-purpose flour in a shallow dish. Roll each fish ball in the flour to coat them lightly, shaking off any excess.

Step 5: Fry the Fish Balls

In a frying pan, heat a generous amount of vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the fish balls in the pan, being sure not to overcrowd them. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove and let drain on paper towels.

Step 6: Make the Sweet and Sour Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar, orange juice, pineapple juice, minced garlic, soy sauce, white vinegar, and sriracha. Stir until the sugar has dissolved. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with warm water until smooth, then gradually add it to the sauce, stirring continuously until it thickens.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

To serve, drizzle the sweet and sour sauce over the fish balls or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with chopped spring onions and toasted sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and crunch.

Substitutions by Category

Fish: Any firm white fish can be used, such as tilapia or haddock.
Bread: Substitute ciabatta with any crusty bread or even day-old baguette.
Herbs: If you don’t have parsley, cilantro or green onions work well too.
Sweetener: Honey or maple syrup can replace sugar in the sauce for a different flavor profile.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

Ensure the fish is fully cooked before flaking to avoid any food safety issues.
Adjust the thickness of the sweet and sour sauce by modifying the cornstarch and water ratio to your taste.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread and flour in the recipe.
Experiment with different herbs and spices according to your personal preference.

Make-Ahead & Storage

These Asian Fish Balls can be made ahead of time! Prepare them up to the frying stage and refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply fry them fresh for the best texture. The sweet and sour sauce can also be made in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Reheat before serving. For longer storage, freeze the uncooked fish balls for up to three months. Just fry them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Helpful Q&A

Can I bake these fish balls instead of frying them?

Yes! If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the fish balls at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. They may not be as crispy, but they’ll still be delicious!

What can I serve with these fish balls?

These fish balls pair wonderfully with steamed rice, noodles, or even a fresh salad. You can also serve them as an appetizer with dipping sauces.

Can I use frozen fish fillets for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw and drain any excess water from the fish before cooking it. This will help maintain the right consistency in your fish balls.

How do I know when the fish balls are cooked through?

The fish balls should be golden brown on the outside and cooked through on the inside. If you’re unsure, you can cut one open to check if the fish is opaque and flaky.

Before You Go

Asian Fish Balls with Homemade Sweet and Sour Sauce is a delightful dish that brings joy to any meal. With a combination of fresh ingredients and a simple cooking process, you’ll find that this recipe is not only easy to follow but also incredibly rewarding. Whether you’re enjoying them as a main course or a fun appetizer during gatherings, these fish balls are sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to indulge in a dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor!