Picture a cozy family gathering where laughter fills the air, and the delightful aroma of savory treats wafts through the kitchen. It was on such an occasion that I stumbled upon the delightful Pearl Meatball with Pork, Tofu, and Shrimp (珍珠丸子). This gem, often found gracing dim sum tables, captivated my taste buds with its unique texture and irresistible flavors.
The chewy glutinous rice coating, resembling gleaming pearls, encases a juicy blend of pork, tofu, and succulent shrimp that bursts with flavor in every bite. Each mouthful is not just a meal; it’s an experience, making them a perfect hit with kids and adults alike. If you’re seeking to break free from the monotony of fast food or want to impress your guests with something both comforting and elegant, let me guide you through creating these incredible pearl meatballs that are sure to become a staple in your home-cooked repertoire.
How will you enjoy Pearl Meatball with Pork, Tofu, and Shrimp?
Deliciously Unique: These pearl meatballs bring a delightful twist to your dinner table. Imagine a beautiful blend of flavors that your family will love!
Kid-Friendly Fun: With their playful appearance and juicy interior, even picky eaters will be asking for seconds.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap or add ingredients to cater to your family’s preferences, making it perfect for any occasion.
Stress-Free Cooking: The straightforward steaming method ensures you can prepare a fabulous meal without the fuss.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether for special gatherings or weeknight dinners, these meatballs are guaranteed to impress everyone at the table.
Looking for more ideas? Don’t forget to check out our serving suggestions for perfect pairings!
Pearl Meatball with Pork, Tofu, and Shrimp Ingredients
• To create the perfect Pearl Meatball with Pork, Tofu, and Shrimp, gather these essential ingredients:
For the Meatball Mixture
- Short Grain Sweet (Glutinous) Rice – Provides the chewy texture and unique appearance. Essential for the dish; no substitutions recommended.
- Extra Firm Tofu – Adds protein and a creamy texture. Can substitute with additional ground meat for a denser meatball.
- Ground Pork – Main protein source; it contributes moisture and flavor. Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a leaner option.
- Garlic (minced) – Adds aromatic flavor. Fresh garlic is preferred for best taste.
- Ginger (minced) – Offers warmth and zest. Substitute with ground ginger if fresh is unavailable.
- Frozen Shrimp – Offers a sweet and briny flavor; must be thawed and chopped. Can omit or substitute with chicken if desired.
- Celery (finely chopped) – Adds a crunch; can use chopped carrots for sweetness.
- Sea Salt – Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust to taste.
- Five Spice or Thirteen Spice Powder (optional) – Provides a fragrant spice blend; can omit if not available.
- Sugar – Balances flavors; can reduce or eliminate based on preference.
- Sesame Oil – Adds depth and nutty flavor; substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
For Seasoning
- Oyster Sauce – Enhances umami flavor. Can replace with hoisin sauce for a vegetarian alternative.
- Soy Sauce – A key seasoning for saltiness. Choose low-sodium variety if required.
- Scallion (thinly sliced) – Introduces freshness and a mild onion flavor.
For Steaming
- Nappa or Green Cabbage Leaves – Used to line the steamer; any large leafy green can also work.
How to Make Pearl Meatball with Pork, Tofu, and Shrimp
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Soak Rice: Begin by soaking glutinous rice in water for 1.5 to 3 hours. This step is crucial for achieving that signature chewy texture once the meatballs are steamed.
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Prepare Meatball Mixture: Drain the tofu and press out excess moisture, then mash it and mix it with the ground pork, garlic, ginger, and chopped vegetables. Combine until the mixture is sticky and cohesive, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
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Assemble Meatballs: Blanch the cabbage leaves briefly to soften them, making them perfect for lining your steamer. Using an ice cream scoop, form meatballs about 1.5 inches in diameter, roll them in the soaked rice to coat evenly, and place them into the lined steamer.
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Cook Meatballs: Steam the meatballs in a bamboo steamer over boiling water for approximately 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can use an Instant Pot on the steaming function for the same time to achieve tender, juicy meatballs.
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Serve: Serve your pearl meatballs warm, accompanied by delightful dipping sauces such as sweet chili or soy sauce for an extra flavor boost.
Optional: Sprinkle some sliced scallions on top for an added touch of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Pearl Meatball with Pork, Tofu, and Shrimp
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Rice Soaking Importance: Soaking the glutinous rice for 1.5-3 hours is crucial to ensure it cooks perfectly and adheres well during steaming.
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Sticky Mixture: Make sure your meat mixture is very sticky; this helps the pearl meatball with pork, tofu, and shrimp hold its shape while cooking.
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Proper Coating: Roll the meatballs thoroughly in soaked rice to ensure an even coating, preventing it from falling off during steaming.
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Fat Content Matters: Opt for higher-fat ground pork to keep your meatballs moist; leaner cuts may result in a drier texture.
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Creative Add-ins: Consider adding chopped water chestnuts or bell peppers for added texture and flavor, enhancing the overall experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Pearl Meatball with Pork, Tofu, and Shrimp are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the meatball mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix all ingredients and refrigerate (the longer it sits, the more flavors meld together). Additionally, you can shape the meatballs and coat them in rice, storing them covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the best quality, cover them tightly with cling film to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, steam the meatballs as directed for about 15 minutes, ensuring they’re just as delicious as when freshly made!
Pearl Meatball with Pork, Tofu, and Shrimp Variations
Feel free to add your personal touch to this recipe and delight your taste buds even more!
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Beef Swap: Replace ground pork with ground beef for a richer flavor profile. This variation will give your meatballs a heartier taste that fans of red meat will adore.
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Chicken Delight: Opt for ground chicken for a lighter take on the dish. Substituting chicken introduces a lovely, mild flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients while still delivering the juicy tenderness you crave.
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Vegetarian Option: Use an extra firm plant-based meat substitute in place of pork and shrimp. This twist offers a compassionate take on the delightful pearl meatballs without sacrificing flavor—perfect for veggie lovers!
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Sweet Touch: Incorporate some finely diced bell peppers or chopped carrots into the meat mixture for an added layer of sweetness and color that kids will especially enjoy.
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Spicy Kick: Want some heat? Stir in a pinch of chili flakes or Sriracha into the meatball mixture to ignite a flavor explosion that will tingle your taste buds.
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Seafood Switch: Substitute thawed shrimp with canned crab meat for a refined seafood twist that enhances the dish’s elegance without overwhelming it.
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Nutty Flavor: Drizzle in some toasted sesame oil within the meat mixture to elevate the nutty richness, enhancing the overall aroma and taste.
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Texture Booster: Add finely chopped water chestnuts for a delightful crunch, giving your meatballs an unexpected textural contrast that will keep everyone reaching for more.
How to Store and Freeze Pearl Meatball with Pork, Tofu, and Shrimp
Fridge: Keep cooked pearl meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This can help maintain their delicious flavor and moist texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Use a steamer or microwave to warm until heated through, ensuring you enjoy the juicy filling.
Airtight Storage: Always use airtight containers or bags to prevent freezer burn and preserve the quality of your pearl meatball with pork, tofu, and shrimp.
What to Serve with Pearl Meatball with Pork, Tofu, and Shrimp?
As you prepare to savor these delightful meatballs, consider which side dishes will elevate your family meal into a feast of harmony and flavor.
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Steamed Bok Choy: The tender greens bring a slight crunch and freshness, balancing the rich flavors of the meatballs beautifully. A drizzle of sesame oil brings it all together for a delightful contrast.
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Jasmine Rice: This aromatic rice is a perfect canvas for soaking up any dipping sauce, creating a comforting and satisfying experience. It pairs wonderfully with the pearl meatballs, allowing their flavors to shine.
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Pickled Vegetables: A tangy side of pickled radishes or cucumbers will awaken your taste buds, refreshing the palate between bites of rich meat and chewy rice. This cool crunch is a traditional favorite.
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Sweet and Sour Sauce: Offering both sweetness and zing, a light dipping sauce adds flavor depth while enhancing the savory profile of the meatballs. It’s a classic pairing that never disappoints!
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Vegetable Stir-Fry: Quick sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, snow peas, or carrots provide a colorful and nutritious addition to your plate. Their vibrant flavors and textures will elevate your mealtime experience.
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Coconut Milk Soup: A warming bowl of coconut soup creates a luscious contrast to the meatballs, providing comforting creaminess with hints of ginger and lemongrass. This comforting dish pairs perfectly well together during cozy family dinners.
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Chrysanthemum Tea: To complement the meal’s warmth, serving a pot of fragrant chrysanthemum tea is a lovely touch. Its light, floral notes can cleanse the palate and enhance the dining experience.
These pairings will ensure your meal is not just satisfying but a memorable one that brings the family together around the table!
Pearl Meatball with Pork, Tofu, and Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of rice should I use for pearl meatballs?
You should use short grain sweet (glutinous) rice, as it provides the unique chewy texture that defines pearl meatballs. This ingredient is essential for achieving that beautiful appearance and texture, so I recommend not substituting it with other rice types.
How do I store cooked pearl meatballs?
Store your cooked pearl meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their delightful flavor and moisture. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat using a steamer or microwave until warmed through.
Can I freeze pearl meatballs?
Absolutely! To freeze pearl meatballs, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you want to reheat, thaw them overnight in the fridge, and warm them using a steamer for the best texture.
What should I do if my meatball mixture is too dry?
If your meatball mixture feels dry, consider adding a bit of chicken or vegetable broth to moisten it and enhance the flavor. You can also add a small amount of additional tofu or chopped vegetables to improve moisture retention. Mix thoroughly until the consistency becomes sticky and cohesive.
Are pearl meatballs safe for kids with allergies?
While pearl meatballs with pork, tofu, and shrimp are generally safe for kids, it’s important to consider any allergies related to soy (found in soy sauce and tofu), shellfish (shrimp), or gluten (in sauces). Always check labels for potential allergens and consider using allergen-free alternatives, such as tamari sauce instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option. Always consult with your child’s healthcare provider for specific dietary advice.
Delicious Pearl Meatball with Pork, Tofu, and Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak glutinous rice in water for 1.5 to 3 hours.
- Drain tofu, press out moisture, mash, and combine with ground pork, garlic, ginger, and vegetables; refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Blanch cabbage leaves briefly, form meatballs, roll in soaked rice, and place in steamer.
- Steam meatballs for 15 minutes or use an Instant Pot on the steaming function.
- Serve warm with dipping sauces.