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Sweet Chili Salmon Balls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Sweet Chili Salmon Balls with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Sweet Chili Salmon Balls with Creamy Garlic Sauce is a flavorful and easy-to-make seafood dish combining the subtle richness of fresh salmon with the sweet and spicy notes of chili sauce, complemented by a smooth, garlicky cream sauce. Perfect as appetizers or a main course, this recipe offers a healthy omega-3 boost with a kid-friendly mild spice, ideal for quick weeknight meals or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Salmon Balls

  • 500g fresh salmon fillets, finely chopped or minced
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 green onions (scallions), chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon cooking oil (for frying)

Creamy Garlic Sauce

  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Salmon: Start by finely chopping or pulsing fresh salmon fillets in a food processor until minced but still retaining some texture, avoiding over-processing to keep a tender bite.
  2. Mix the Salmon Ball Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the minced salmon, panko breadcrumbs, beaten egg, chopped green onions, salt, and pepper. Mix gently and thoroughly to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
  3. Shape the Salmon Balls: Using your hands, form the mixture into bite-sized balls approximately the size of a walnut or slightly larger. Place the formed balls on a plate or tray and chill in the refrigerator to help them hold their shape.
  4. Cook the Salmon Balls: Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Fry the salmon balls in batches until golden brown on all sides and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain them on paper towels to remove any excess oil. Alternatively, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden and cooked through for a healthier option.
  5. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt or sour cream with minced garlic, sweet chili sauce, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Adjust the creaminess and seasoning to your preference.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Drizzle the creamy garlic sauce generously over the warm salmon balls. Garnish with additional green onions or fresh herbs such as cilantro or basil, and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Freshness matters: Use the freshest salmon possible for optimal flavor and texture.
  • Don’t overload the mixture: Maintain balance with binders like breadcrumbs and egg to avoid dense balls.
  • Keep it chilled: Refrigerate shaped balls before cooking to help them hold together.
  • Test-cook one ball first: Fry a single ball initially to check seasoning and texture.
  • Use a non-stick skillet: Prevents sticking and helps get an even golden crust.

Nutrition

Keywords: salmon balls, sweet chili salmon, creamy garlic sauce, seafood appetizer, healthy seafood, quick dinner, kid-friendly, gluten free