Balls-O-Fish
Delicious fish balls filled with melted cheese, crispy on the outside and tender inside, perfect for seafood lovers and appetizer enthusiasts seeking bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the fish in a medium-sized bowl.
- Combine the diced onion, egg, crushed saltine crackers, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix all ingredients together well.
- Cut the cheese into 1/2 inch squares.
- Take some of the fish mixture and place one cheese square inside, making sure all of the cheese is covered.
- Gently place the fish ball in a deep fryer.
- Cook approximately 3 to 5 minutes or until the fish floats.
- Serve with sour cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using canned tuna or mackerel instead of salmon or trout. If you don't have saltine crackers, crushed breadcrumbs or panko work well. To enhance flavors, add chopped herbs like parsley or dill. Ensure the fish mixture is well-mixed to help the balls hold together during frying. Serve with a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.
Serving Suggestions
These fish balls pair beautifully with sour cream and fresh herbs. Serve them alongside a crisp salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal. They also make a great appetizer for parties or gatherings. For a delicious twist, consider serving them with a tangy dipping sauce inspired by Poached Fish With Horseradish Sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover fish balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Balls-O-Fish contains roughly 1908 calories, with 98g protein, 295g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (196% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (135% of the Daily Value), and potassium (85% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2822mg per serving (123% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of fish for this recipe?
Absolutely! While salmon and trout are popular choices, you can use any firm fish you prefer. Options like cod, haddock, or even canned tuna work well. Just ensure the fish is well-drained and flaked for the best texture in the fish balls.
What can I serve with Balls-O-Fish?
These fish balls are great on their own, but you can elevate the dish by serving them with a side of tangy coleslaw or a simple mixed greens salad. They also pair nicely with crispy potato wedges or a light dipping sauce for added flavor.
How do I know when the fish balls are done cooking?
The fish balls are done when they float to the surface of the oil, which typically takes about 3 to 5 minutes. To ensure they're fully cooked, you can cut one open to check that the fish is opaque and hot throughout. Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).