Crispy Chinese Bread Balls, or Youtiao balls, offer a delightful twist on a classic deep-fried treat. Imagine perfectly golden-brown spheres, boasting a wonderfully crisp exterior that gives way to a soft, fluffy interior. These aren't your average bread rolls; their unique texture and subtle sweetness make them irresistible, perfect for a quick snack or a satisfying addition to any meal. Whether you're looking for something to tantalize your taste buds or a fun project in the kitchen, these bread balls deliver on both fronts, promising a delicious and surprisingly simple experience.
This recipe transforms readily available ingredients into a captivating culinary creation. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy preparation times; these crispy bread balls are surprisingly easy to make, perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Ready to dive in and create these addictive treats? Let's move on to the step-by-step instructions to make your own batch of these irresistible Chinese Bread Balls.
Tools Needed
- Pan
- Bowl
Ingredients
- Cooking oil
- Garlic paste: 1 teaspoon
- Capsicum: 1
- Carrot: 1
- Boiled chicken: 1 loaf of bread
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Crushed red chili: 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Chicken powder: 1 teaspoon
- Vinegar: 1 tablespoon
- Soy sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Chili sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Boiled spaghetti: 1 cup
- Bread slices
- Bread crumbs
- Egg
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Savory Chicken Filling
- Heat cooking oil in a pan. Add garlic paste and fry.
- Add finely chopped capsicum and carrot and fry until tender.
- Add boiled chicken, salt, crushed red chili, black pepper, chicken powder, vinegar, soy sauce, and chili sauce. Mix well.
- Add boiled spaghetti and mix thoroughly. This is your filling.
Step 2. Prepare the Bread Balls
- Remove the crusts from bread slices and soak them in water until soft.
- Squeeze out excess water from the bread. Fill each bread slice with the chicken mixture and shape into balls.
Step 3. Coat the Bread Balls
- Coat the bread balls in egg, then bread crumbs.
Step 4. Deep Fry and Serve
- Deep fry until golden brown and crispy.
Read more: Crispy Salt & Pepper Shrimp: A Simple Chinese Prawn Recipe
Tips
- Handle the soaked bread carefully as it will be very soft.
- The bread balls will be much easier to shape after being wet.
- The fried bread balls will be crispy and delicious.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought bread for this recipe?
Yes! While homemade bread yields the best results, store-bought bread works well too. Just make sure it's slightly stale for easier shaping.
2. How do I ensure the bread balls are crispy?
The key is to use enough oil and ensure the oil is hot enough (around 350°F/175°C) before adding the bread balls. Don't overcrowd the pan.
3. Can I add any flavorings to the bread balls?
Absolutely! Experiment with adding spices like cinnamon, cardamom, or even a touch of savory herbs. You can also add a sprinkle of sugar before frying for extra sweetness.
These crispy Chinese bread balls are a delightful and surprisingly simple treat, perfect for breaking your fast during Iftar or enjoying any time of day. Their crispy exterior and soft interior will leave you wanting more, and the ease of preparation makes them ideal for busy schedules. So gather your ingredients and enjoy the satisfying crunch of these homemade delights!