Seafood Appetizer Balls

Name: Seafood Appetizer Balls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 1-1/2 dozen.
Ingredients: 1 can (6 ounces) crabmeat, drained, flaked and cartilage removed; 3/4 cup seasoned bread crumbs, divided; 1/4 cup finely chopped celery; 1/4 cup frozen cooked tiny shrimp, thawed; 1 egg, lightly beaten; 1 green onion, sliced; 1 tablespoon chopped sweet red pepper; 1 tablespoon milk; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley flakes; 1/2 teaspoon seafood seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 1 cup crushed butter-flavored crackers (about 25 crackers); 1 egg white, lightly beaten; Oil for deep-fat frying

After sampling a similar appetizer at a local restaurant, I went home to create my own. Family and friends like my version even better!

Ingredients

1 can (6 ounces) crabmeat, drained, flaked and cartilage removed
3/4 cup seasoned bread crumbs, divided
1/4 cup finely chopped celery
1/4 cup frozen cooked tiny shrimp, thawed
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 green onion, sliced
1 tablespoon chopped sweet red pepper
1 tablespoon milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
1/2 teaspoon seafood seasoning
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 cup crushed butter-flavored crackers (about 25 crackers)
1 egg white, lightly beaten
Oil for deep-fat frying

Directions

In a large bowl, combine the crab, 1/4 cup bread crumbs, celery, shrimp, egg, onion, red pepper, milk, garlic powder, parsley, seafood seasoning and pepper. Shape into 1-in. balls.
Place the cracker crumbs, egg white and remaining bread crumbs in separate shallow bowls. Roll balls in bread crumbs; dip egg white, then roll in cracker crumbs.
In an electric skillet or deep-fat fryer, heat oil to 375°. Fry a few balls at a time for 1-2 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels. Serve warm.

Originally published as Seafood Appetizer Balls in Holiday & Celebrations Cookbook 2004