When the weekend rolled around and my family craved something special, I found myself drawn to the delightful memories of dim sum gatherings. There’s something captivating about the aroma of tender, juicy meat wrapped in a chewy layer of glutinous rice—these pearl meatballs with pork, tofu, and shrimp (珍珠丸子) are just that! The very first bite transports you to bustling food stalls, where family and friends share laughter over steaming baskets of dim sum.
Perfect for all ages, this kid-friendly recipe allows you to flex your culinary creativity, whether you’re experimenting with different meats or sneaking in extra veggies. I love how simple the preparation is, making it an ideal weekend cooking project to enjoy with the family or an impressive dish to serve at your next potluck. Ready to savor the flavors of this traditional Taiwanese favorite? Let’s dive in and create these delicious pearl meatballs that promise to bring joy to your table!
Why love pearl meatballs with pork, tofu, and shrimp?
Pearl Meatballs with Pork, Tofu, and Shrimp offer a delightful culinary experience.
- Kid-Friendly: These savory bites are perfect for little ones and adults alike, making mealtime enjoyable for the whole family.
- Flavorful Fusion: The combination of tender meat, chewy glutinous rice, and aromatic spices creates an irresistible taste sensation.
- Creative Cooking: Get creative by substituting ingredients and sneaking in vegetables, making each preparation unique and nutritious.
- Quick Setup: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, you’ll have a satisfying dish ready in no time.
- Cultural Connection: Bring a piece of Taiwanese tradition to your kitchen, reminiscent of joyous dim sum gatherings.
Don’t forget to explore serving suggestions and variations for a burst of personal flair when you make these delicious pearl meatballs.
Pearl Meatball Ingredients
• Get ready to create delicious pearl meatballs!
For the Meatball Mixture
- Short Grain Sweet (Glutinous) Rice – This rice gives the signature chewy texture; don’t substitute with regular rice unless absolutely necessary.
- Extra Firm Tofu (4 oz) – Provides a soft texture; substitute with more ground pork if you prefer a non-vegan dish.
- Ground Pork (1 lb) – The main protein that adds flavor and richness; can be swapped with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Oyster Sauce (1 tsp) – Boosts umami flavor; for a vegetarian version, use vegetarian oyster sauce or soy sauce.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Adds a fragrant depth; fresh garlic is best for flavor.
- Minced Ginger (½ tsp) – Provides a zesty kick; opt for fresh for the brightest taste.
- Soy Sauce (1 tbsp) – Introduces saltiness and umami; low-sodium soy sauce is great for cutting down sodium intake.
- Scallion (1, thinly sliced) – Brings freshness and crunch; chives make a nice alternative.
- Frozen Shrimp (4-6 pieces, thawed and chopped) – Offers texture and flavor; feel free to substitute with crab meat or omit for a vegetarian option.
- Celery (1 stalk, finely chopped) – Adds essential crunch; consider diced bell peppers for a different taste.
- Sea Salt (½ tsp, or to taste) – Balances the flavors; adjust based on your preference.
- Five Spice/Thirteen Spice Powder (1 pinch, optional) – Adds complexity; skip if you don’t have it on hand.
- Sugar (¼ tsp) – Balances savory elements; optional depending on your taste.
- Sesame Oil (2 tsp) – Infuses a nutty aroma; can be substituted with avocado oil for a milder flavor.
For the Steaming
- Nappa/Green Cabbage Leaves (4 leaves) – Line your steamer to prevent sticking and enhance presentation.
These pearl meatball ingredients come together for a dish that’s both satisfying and playful—a true celebration of flavors!
How to Make Pearl Meatball with Pork, Tofu, and Shrimp
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Prepare Rice: Soak the glutinous rice in water for 1.5 to 3 hours. This soaking time is essential for achieving that perfect chewy texture we all love in pearl meatballs.
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Make Meatball Mixture: Squeeze excess water from the tofu, then crush it until it’s smooth. Combine it with the ground pork, shrimp, scallions, garlic, ginger, and other seasonings, mixing until it becomes sticky. Chill for 30 minutes to help set the flavors.
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Assemble Meatballs: Blanch the cabbage leaves in boiling water for a few minutes to soften, then line your steamer with these leaves. Drain the soaked rice and take the chilled meat mixture, form it into 1½ inch balls, roll them in the rice, and place them neatly in the steamer.
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Cook: Steam the prepared meatballs for 15 minutes over high heat in a bamboo steamer or use your instant pot’s steaming function for the same duration. You’ll want the meatballs to be firm and the rice to appear translucent.
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Serve: Once cooked, enjoy your pearl meatballs warm! Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, like sweet chili or soy sauce, for an authentic experience.
Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped scallions for an added crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Pearl Meatball with Pork, Tofu, and Shrimp?
Transport your taste buds to a bustling dim sum restaurant with these delightful meats wrapped in chewy rice.
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Sweet Chili Sauce: A delightful sweet-spicy contrast that enhances the savory flavors of the meatballs perfectly.
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Steamed Veggies: Broccoli or bok choy add freshness and color to your plate, providing a crunchy counterpart to the tender meatballs.
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Jasmine Rice: A fragrant bed of jasmine rice soaks up delicious juices, offering a light and fluffy texture that complements the meatballs’ richness.
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Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crisp, this salad adds a vibrant crunch while balancing the savory notes of the dish.
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Soy Sauce and Vinegar Dip: Easy to prepare, this dipping sauce brings tanginess and umami, elevating each bite of the pearl meatballs.
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Chrysanthemum Tea: A floral, lightly sweet beverage that cleanses the palate and pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the meatballs.
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Sesame Noodles: Silky, nutty noodles that add a comforting touch and a nice contrast to the chewy bite of the meatballs.
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Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet, creamy treat offers a perfect way to end your meal on a rich, fruity note.
Expert Tips for Pearl Meatball Perfection
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Soaking Time Matters: Ensure the glutinous rice is soaked for 1.5 to 3 hours; this is crucial for achieving the signature chewy texture of the pearl meatballs.
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Achieve Stickiness: Mix the meat mixture until it’s very sticky; this is essential to keep the rice and meatball together during cooking and gives them the right bite.
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Pre-cook for Flavor: Always precook a small portion of the meat mixture to taste for seasoning adjustments before assembling all the meatballs.
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Uniform Size: Using a tray and an ice cream scoop helps create uniform meatball sizes, ensuring even cooking and a lovely presentation for your pearl meatballs with pork, tofu, and shrimp.
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Refreshing Garnish: Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like chopped scallions for an added layer of flavor and a pop of color when serving.
Make Ahead Options
These Pearl Meatballs with Pork, Tofu, and Shrimp are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the meat mixture and form the meatballs up to 24 hours ahead; simply cover and refrigerate them to keep them fresh. For the ultimate convenience, you can also soak the glutinous rice up to 3 days in advance, just remember to keep it covered in water to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, simply steam the meatballs directly from the fridge—there’s no need to thaw. This method ensures they remain just as delicious and retains their signature chewy texture, saving you time while still enjoying a homemade meal.
Storage Tips for Pearl Meatball with Pork, Tofu, and Shrimp
- Fridge: Store cooked pearl meatballs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure they cool down before sealing to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or steam them for about 5 minutes until warmed through, ensuring they stay moist and flavorful.
- Thawing: If frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results. Enjoy those delightful bites of pearl meatball magic!
Pearl Meatball Variations
Feel free to mix and match ingredients to create your perfect pearl meatball experience!
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Chicken Swap: Use ground chicken instead of pork for a lighter take. The result still packs a flavorful punch while catering to lighter diets.
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Vegetarian Option: Substitute all meat with an extra firm tofu and chopped mushrooms for a hearty yet meat-free version. The umami from mushrooms replicates the depth of flavor beautifully!
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Extra Crunch: Add grated carrots or zucchini into the meat mixture for added nutrition and texture. You’ll be surprised how much these veggies can enhance the bites!
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Flavorful Additions: Experiment by incorporating chopped water chestnuts or bamboo shoots into the filling for a delightful crunch and unexpected texture that brightens every bite.
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Different Sauces: Swap out the oyster sauce for hoisin sauce for a sweet and tangy twist. Each sauce brings its unique flavor profile to these mouthwatering meatballs.
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Spicy Kick: If you’re feeling bold, mix in finely chopped fresh chili peppers into the meat mixture for a spicy adventure! Adjust the amount based on your desired heat level.
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Cabbage Leave Variants: Instead of using nappa cabbage, try using lettuce leaves for steaming. They’ll create an equally delightful presentation and flavor.
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Asian Inspired Flavors: Add a dash of sesame seeds or chili oil into the meat mixture for an extra layer of rich flavor. These small additions make a big impact!
A little creativity goes a long way—get ready to enjoy the magic of cooking with endless possibilities!
Pearl Meatball with Pork, Tofu, and Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of rice should I use for pearl meatballs?
Absolutely, using short grain sweet (glutinous) rice is crucial for achieving the signature chewy texture of pearl meatballs. If you’re in a pinch, you might use regular rice, but it will change the texture significantly.
How can I store leftover pearl meatballs?
To keep those delicious pearl meatballs fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to lock in moisture and flavor.
Can I freeze pearl meatballs?
Yes! Freeze your cooked pearl meatballs by first laying them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they are firm. Then transfer them to a freezer bag, where they’ll stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What’s the best way to reheat pearl meatballs?
Reheating your pearl meatballs is simple! Just microwave them for about 1-2 minutes, or if you prefer, steam them for around 5 minutes until they’re warmed through. This method keeps them moist and flavorful, just like when they were freshly made.
Is there a way to adjust the recipe for dietary allergies?
Certainly! If you or your loved ones have specific dietary considerations, you can substitute the shrimp with extra tofu or leave it out entirely for a vegetarian option. Additionally, if allergic to soy, using coconut aminos can be a great alternative to soy sauce.
How do I ensure the meat mixture holds together?
For a well-combined meat mixture, make sure to mix until it’s very sticky, about 2-3 minutes of thorough blending. Squeezing excess water from the tofu helps to keep the mixture compact. If needed, you can also add small amounts of cornstarch as a binding agent.
These tips and tricks will ensure your pearl meatball with pork, tofu, and shrimp turns out delightful every time. Enjoy creating this cherished dish!
Savory Pearl Meatball with Pork, Tofu and Shrimp Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Soak the glutinous rice in water for 1.5 to 3 hours.
- Squeeze excess water from the tofu, crush until smooth, then combine with ground pork, shrimp, scallions, garlic, ginger, and seasonings.
- Mix until sticky and chill for 30 minutes.
- Blanch the cabbage leaves in boiling water and line the steamer.
- Drain the soaked rice, form the chilled meat mixture into 1½ inch balls, roll them in the rice, and place in the steamer.
- Steam the meatballs for 15 minutes over high heat.
- Enjoy the meatballs warm with your favorite dipping sauces.
- Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.