Chinese Shrimp Cakes
Chinese Shrimp Cakes (Hǎi Xiā Bǐng) are savory, pan-fried patties made primarily from minced or chopped shrimp, often bound with egg and a small amount of starch or flour. They are a popular coastal dish, especially in regions like Guangdong and Fujian, where fresh seafood is abundant. The cakes are known for their tender, bouncy texture and sweet, briny shrimp flavor.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
These cakes are a high-protein dish due to the shrimp content, with moderate fat from pan-frying and relatively low carbohydrates unless a significant amount of starch or breading is used. A typical serving provides key nutrients like selenium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids, with a rough calorie range of 150-250 per cake depending on size and preparation.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 290 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbs | 18 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Fiber | 1.5 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Sodium | 680 mg |
| Selenium | 42 mcg |
| Phosphorus | 220 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 2.1 mcg |
| Niacin (B3) | 3.2 mg |
| Zinc | 2.8 mg |
| Iron | 2.4 mg |
| Magnesium | 45 mg |
| Calcium | 65 mg |
Per 3 pieces (180 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, shrimp cakes are often associated with festive meals and family gatherings, symbolizing prosperity and togetherness. Nutritionally, they offer a lean protein source that's lower in saturated fat compared to many other fried foods, making them a relatively healthier indulgence.
