Wenzhou fish balls

Wēnzhōu Yúwán (Wenzhou Fish Balls) are a celebrated specialty from Wenzhou, Zhejiang. Unlike most fish balls which are round, Wenzhou's version is elongated and irregular in shape. Made from freshly minced fish paste, they are known for their smooth, bouncy texture and clean fish flavor, served in a clear broth.

食材清单

• 500 g fresh sea fish (such as hairtail or yellow croaker)
• 200 ml iced water
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine
• Broth: 1L chicken stock
• Garnish: scallions, white pepper, cilantro

制作步骤

1. Remove fish skin and bones. Scrape fish meat from the bones using a spoon.
2. Finely mince the fish meat by hand or in a food processor until it forms a sticky paste.
3. Add salt, sugar, cornstarch, and wine to the paste. Beat vigorously while gradually adding iced water until the paste is very smooth and elastic.
4. Shape the paste into elongated, irregular shapes by hand. Drop into simmering broth.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes until fish balls float. Serve in broth with garnishes.