Octopus balls

Octopus balls

Appetizer

Item Rating: 65/100

1 serving (132 grams) contains 220 calories, 8.0 grams of protein, 8.0 grams of fat, and 30.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Log this food in SnapCalorie

★★★★★ 4.8/5.0 (2,000+ reviews)
Get your calorie requirement
Log your nutrition in seconds
Get a personalized nutrition plan
SnapCalorie App Screenshot
392.9
calories
14.3
protein
53.6
carbohydrates
14.3
fat

Nutrition Information

1 cup (235.7g)
Calories
392.9
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 14.3 g 18%
Saturated Fat 3.6 g 18%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0 g
Cholesterol 89.3 mg 29%
Sodium 1071.4 mg 46%
Total Carbohydrates 53.6 g 19%
Dietary Fiber 1.8 g 6%
Sugars 5.4 g
protein 14.3 g 28%
Vitamin D 0 mcg 0%
Calcium 71.4 mg 5%
Iron 2.1 mg 11%
Potassium 267.9 mg 5%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🍯 Low sugar

Source of Calories

53.6%
14.3%
32.2%
Fat: 128 cal (32.2%)
Protein: 57 cal (14.3%)
Carbs: 214 cal (53.6%)

About Octopus balls

Octopus balls, also known as Takoyaki, are a popular Japanese street food originating from Osaka. These spherical snacks are made from a batter of wheat flour filled with diced octopus, green onions, pickled ginger, and tempura scraps. Cooked in a specialized molded pan, they are traditionally served with a savory sauce, mayonnaise, bonito flakes, and seaweed. Nutritionally, Takoyaki provides a moderate amount of protein from the octopus, carbohydrates from the batter, and some essential micronutrients such as vitamin B12, zinc, and phosphorus. However, due to the added sauces and toppings, the dish can also be high in sodium and fat, making portion control important for a balanced diet.

Health Benefits

  • Good source of lean protein from octopus, which supports muscle repair and maintenance.
  • Rich in vitamin B12, important for red blood cell production and neurological function.
  • Provides zinc, a mineral essential for immune health and wound healing.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains wheat (gluten), seafood (octopus), soy (from sauces), egg (in mayonnaise)
Suitable for: Pescatarian
Not suitable for: Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, soy-free

Selection and Storage

Consume immediately for optimal texture, or store refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. Reheat in an oven or skillet to restore crispness.

Common Questions About Octopus balls Nutrition

Are octopus balls high in protein?

Octopus balls contain moderate amounts of protein, primarily due to the octopus itself. On average, a serving of 5 octopus balls (approximately 150g) provides around 10-12g of protein, making them a decent snack option for protein intake. However, the batter and toppings may reduce the overall protein-to-calorie ratio.

Can I eat octopus balls on a keto diet?

Octopus balls are generally not suitable for a strict keto diet as they are made with wheat flour-based batter, which is relatively high in carbohydrates. A serving of 5 octopus balls typically contains 20-30g of carbs, which can quickly exceed the daily carb limit for ketosis.

Are there any health concerns with eating octopus balls?

While octopus balls can be enjoyed in moderation, they may be high in sodium and fats due to the batter, sauces, and mayonnaise toppings. Additionally, they are typically deep-fried, which can add unhealthy trans fats. Eating them occasionally is fine, but regular consumption may not be ideal for heart health or weight management.

What is the recommended portion size for octopus balls?

A standard serving size of octopus balls is usually 5-6 pieces, which equates to approximately 150-200g. This portion contains about 200-300 calories depending on the toppings. Pairing them with a side of vegetables can help balance the meal nutritionally.

How do octopus balls compare to similar snacks like takoyaki or gyoza?

Octopus balls are essentially takoyaki, as the terms are often used interchangeably. Compared to gyoza, octopus balls are typically higher in carbs and lower in protein due to their batter-to-filling ratio, while gyoza contains more protein from the meat or seafood filling and less from the wrapper. Gyoza may be a slightly healthier option if looking for a lower-carb snack.

Data Sources & Scientific References

Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.

Additional Authoritative Sources:

Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.