Shrimp & Pork Ball Bowl with Shimeji Mushrooms

Suggested Meal Time: Lunch or Dinner

Estimated Calories: ~420–480 kcal per serving

(Protein-focused, low-fat, clean eating)

Ingredients (1 serving)

For the Pork Balls

• 150 g ground pork (preferably lean)

• 1 teaspoon minced garlic

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon ground pepper

• ½ teaspoon cornstarch (optional for firmness)

• 1 teaspoon fish sauce or soy sauce

For the Shrimp

• 5–6 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

• A pinch of salt

• A pinch of pepper

Vegetables

• 1 cup shimeji mushrooms

• 3–4 leaves of lettuce or napa cabbage

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional to keep shrimp firm)

For the Dipping Sauce (optional)

• 1 tablespoon chili sauce

• 1 teaspoon lime juice

• ½ teaspoon honey

• 1 teaspoon fish sauce

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

1. Rinse shrimp and pat dry.

2. Clean and trim the base of the shimeji mushrooms; separate into small clusters.

3. Wash lettuce leaves and cut into large pieces.

2. Make the Pork Balls

1. In a bowl, mix ground pork with garlic, salt, pepper, fish sauce, and cornstarch.

2. Stir well until the mixture becomes sticky (this helps the texture).

3. Shape into small bite-sized balls.

3. Cook the Pork Balls

1. Bring a pot of water to a gentle boil.

2. Drop in the pork balls and cook for 5–6 minutes, until they float and are fully cooked.

3. Remove and set aside.

4. Cook the Shrimp

1. In the same pot, add the shrimp.

2. Boil for 2–3 minutes until bright orange and firm.

3. Remove and let cool slightly.

5. Prepare the Vegetables

1. Blanch the lettuce for 10–15 seconds (just enough to soften).

2. Blanch the shimeji mushrooms for 1 minute.

3. Drain well.

6. Assemble the Bowl

1. Place lettuce on one side of the bowl.

2. Add shimeji mushrooms neatly next to it.

3. Arrange the pork balls on one section.

4. Add shrimp on the remaining side.

5. Drizzle dipping sauce underneath or serve on the side.

Who Benefits from This Dish

• People following a high-protein, low-fat diet

• Fitness enthusiasts needing a lean meal

• Students and workers needing a quick and clean lunch

• Individuals who want a gut-friendly meal with simple ingredients

Energy-Efficient Cooking Tips

• Use one pot to boil pork balls, shrimp, and vegetables to save time and electricity.

• Cover the pot while boiling to reduce cooking time.

• Make a large batch of pork balls and refrigerate/freeze for future meals.