Description
Tender, protein-packed shrimp and tofu cakes mixed with finely chopped vegetables, pan-seared until golden, and perfect for both baby-friendly meals and flavorful adult bites.
I love making these in bulk and freezing both for adults and babies!
Tools Needed: Blender or food processor
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 oz carrots (~2 carrots, or ~1/4 cup), finely chopped
- 2 oz broccoli (~8 florets), finely chopped
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 block firm or extra-firm tofu (about 9 oz)
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Dipping Condiments (not for babies!): chili crisp, ponzu, soy sauce, Kewpie mayo, etc.
If you’re preparing this for babies, make sure they’ve tried each ingredient on its own first in case of any allergies.
It’s also helpful to pulse each ingredient separately in the food processor so everything is small and easy for them to eat.
Instructions
- Pat the shrimp dry, then finely chop or pulse in a food processor until sticky but still slightly textured. Add the carrots and broccoli and pulse until finely chopped. I also like to toss the ginger, garlic, and green onion into the food processor as well for less dishes and chopping.
- Drain the tofu and squeeze out as much excess water as possible (this helps with texture). Mash until mostly smooth, with a few small bits remaining.
- In a bowl, combine the shrimp/veggies mixture, tofu, flour and black pepper. Mash the tofu until it is combined well with the rest of the mixture. It’s okay if there are chunks of tofu, it doesn’t need to be even close to a pureed texture! Mix until a thick, scoop-able paste forms.
- Lightly wet your hands and form balls that are about 2 tbsp large.
- Heat a pan over medium-high heat. Once it’s been heated for at least a few minutes, scoop each ball onto the pan and gently press flat. Cook until golden on both sides and cooked through.
- For adults: Serve with soy sauce, ponzu, or chili crisp for dipping. For babies: Serve plain with no added salt or dipping sauces.
Notes
- For adults: Serve with soy sauce, ponzu, or chili crisp for dipping
- For babies: Serve plain with no added salt or dipping sauces
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Makes about 12-14