Shrimp Polpette with a Zesty Tomato Sauce

Ingredients

• 500g (1.1 lb) shrimp, peeled and deveined 500g (1.1 lb) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup breadcrumbs 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 eggs, beaten 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup olive oil, for frying 1/4 cup olive oil, for frying
• For the tomato sauce: For the tomato sauce:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional) 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 18g (Saturated Fat: 4g)
• Carbohydrates: 18g (Sugar: 3g)
• Protein: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a food processor, pulse the shrimp until finely minced.
2. 2.
   In a large bowl, combine the minced shrimp, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
3. 3.
   Add the beaten eggs to the shrimp mixture and mix until everything is well combined.
4. 4.
   Shape the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
5. 5.
   Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the shrimp polpette in batches until golden brown on all sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
6. 6.
   In the same skillet, heat the olive oil for the tomato sauce. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
7. 7.
   Add the crushed tomatoes, chili flakes (if using), and chopped basil to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
8. 8.
   Return the shrimp polpette to the skillet and simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
9. 9.
   Serve the shrimp polpette with a generous drizzle of the tomato sauce. Garnish with additional chopped parsley, if desired.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Shrimp — Make sure to thoroughly devein and remove the shells from the shrimp before mincing them. This will ensure a smooth texture in the polpette.
• Breadcrumbs — You can use either store-bought breadcrumbs or make your own by toasting and grinding stale bread. Fresh breadcrumbs may make the mixture too wet.
• Parmesan cheese — For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Avoid using pre-packaged grated cheese, as it may contain additives that affect the texture of the polpette.
• Crushed tomatoes — Look for high-quality canned crushed tomatoes or use fresh tomatoes that have been peeled and crushed. This will give the tomato sauce a rich and vibrant taste.
• Basil — Fresh basil adds a wonderful aroma to the tomato sauce. If you don't have fresh basil, you can substitute with dried basil, but use a smaller amount.

Tips & Tricks

• To make the polpette extra flavorful, you can add a pinch of dried oregano or a squeeze of lemon juice to the shrimp mixture.
• If you prefer a spicier tomato sauce, increase the amount of chili flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
• Serve the shrimp polpette as an appetizer with toothpicks or as a main course with pasta or crusty bread.
• If you want to make the dish ahead of time, you can prepare the shrimp polpette and tomato sauce separately. Store them in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
• Leftover shrimp polpette can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before enjoying.

Serving advice

Serve the Shrimp Polpette with a generous drizzle of the zesty tomato sauce. Garnish with additional chopped parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with a side of crusty bread or pasta to complete the meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the golden brown shrimp polpette on a serving platter and pour the zesty tomato sauce over them. Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for an elegant touch. Serve with a side of pasta or crusty bread to create a visually appealing and delicious presentation.