Shrimp Toast
Shrimp toast, a beloved Cantonese dim sum dish, marries Chinese tradition with Western flair, making it a global favorite. Originating in Guangdong, its popularity has surged with modern interpretations on restaurant menus.
This crispy, golden appetizer features shrimp spread over bread and coated in sesame seeds, offering a savory blend of flavors. With a balance of fresh herbs and tender shrimp, each bite is irresistible.
Perfect for sharing or as a snack, shrimp toast brings both elegance and comfort to the table. Simple to make yet full of flavor, it’s a dish that never goes out of style.
Shrimp Toast Ingredients
The foundation of shrimp toast lies in fresh, succulent shrimp, providing a savory base that absorbs and enhances the delicate flavors of garlic, cilantro, and scallions. These aromatic herbs bring a burst of freshness and a hint of sweetness, balancing the rich shrimp perfectly.
A light touch of sesame oil imparts a subtle nutty depth, while soy sauce adds an umami punch, marrying the ingredients together. White sesame seeds coat the shrimp mixture, adding texture and a mild crunch that contrasts with the softness of the bread.
Recipe Tips
- Ensure Proper Oil Temperature
For the perfect crispy texture, it’s crucial to heat the oil to the right temperature. When shallow frying, the oil should shimmer but not smoke. A simple way to test is to drop a small piece of bread into the oil—if it sizzles immediately, you’re good to go. If the oil is too hot, the bread may burn before the shrimp cooks through. If it’s too cool, the toasts will absorb excess oil and become greasy. - Customize the Shrimp Paste Texture
The shrimp mixture should have a coarse, spreadable texture, not a smooth paste. Pulse the shrimp in stages, leaving some pieces intact for texture, but ensure the mixture binds well with the egg white and seasonings. If it feels too runny, add a bit more egg white or even a touch of cornstarch to achieve the desired consistency. - Adjusting the Bread
While traditional white sandwich bread works perfectly, you can experiment with other bread types like sourdough or whole wheat for added flavor. If you’re concerned about the bread becoming soggy, lightly toast the slices before spreading the shrimp mixture for a firmer base.
What to Serve with Shrimp Toast
- Pickled Vegetables
Shrimp toast’s crispy, savory profile pairs beautifully with the tanginess of pickled vegetables. A small serving of cucumber, carrot, or radish pickles will balance the richness of the shrimp toast, adding a refreshing crunch and helping cut through the oiliness. - Steamed Jasmine Rice
Serve shrimp toast alongside steamed jasmine rice for a classic pairing. The rice’s mild fragrance complements the bold flavors of the shrimp, while its soft texture contrasts the crispy toast, creating a satisfying meal. - Asian-Inspired Dipping Sauce
A simple dipping sauce of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a hint of sesame oil can elevate the shrimp toast even further. For a spicy kick, add a touch of chili oil or sriracha to the sauce. This will enhance the umami flavors while adding an extra layer of heat and depth.
FAQ
- Can I make shrimp toast ahead of time?
While shrimp toast is best served immediately after frying for maximum crispiness, you can prepare the shrimp mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Coat the bread with the shrimp paste and sesame seeds just before frying to maintain the best texture. - Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for shrimp toast. Just make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before preparing the shrimp paste. Excess moisture from frozen shrimp can make the mixture too runny, so be sure to remove any water or excess liquid before processing. - Is there a way to make shrimp toast less oily?
To reduce the oiliness, make sure the oil is at the right temperature for frying, and don’t overcrowd the pan. Frying in batches ensures the toasts cook evenly and don’t absorb excess oil. Also, placing the fried shrimp toasts on a paper towel-lined plate helps absorb any extra oil. - Can I make this recipe without sesame oil?
While toasted sesame oil imparts a unique flavor, you can substitute it with another neutral oil or even olive oil. However, sesame oil adds a distinct nutty aroma that is a signature part of the dish’s flavor profile. If you skip it, the overall taste may be milder.
Shrimp Toast
Shrimp toast, also referred to as prawn toast, is a renowned Cantonese dish that merges Chinese traditions with Western influences. Initially originating from the Guangdong Province in China, it has spread across various Asian countries and around the world. Recently, the dish has seen a resurgence, with contemporary versions popping up in restaurants, transforming it from a traditional snack into a trendy appetizer.
Ingredients
- 2 scallions chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 2 garlic cloves
- ¼ cup cilantro leaves and tender stems
- ½ pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 large egg white
- 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ⅓ cup white sesame seeds
- 4 slices of white sandwich bread
- 1½ to 2 cups neutral oil such as canola or vegetable, for shallow frying
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp Paste
- Begin by placing the scallions, garlic, and cilantro into a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped, scraping the sides of the bowl as necessary. Add about two-thirds of the shrimp, along with the egg white, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Continue pulsing until a coarse paste forms, ensuring everything is well combined. Transfer the paste to a medium-sized bowl. Chop the remaining shrimp into small, ¼-inch pieces, and mix them into the paste. Season the mixture with salt and pepper, ensuring it remains moist and spreadable.
- Prepare the Bread
- Spread the shrimp mixture evenly over each slice of bread, making sure to cover the surface completely. Once the bread is coated, place sesame seeds on a flat plate. Gently press each slice of bread, shrimp-side down, into the sesame seeds, ensuring that the seeds adhere well. Transfer the bread to a cutting board, sesame side up, and cut each slice diagonally into four triangles.
- Fry the Toasts
- In a large skillet, preferably cast-iron, heat about ¼ inch of oil over medium heat until it shimmers. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of bread into the oil—if it sizzles, the oil is properly heated. Working in batches, place the bread triangles shrimp-side down into the skillet, being careful not to overcrowd. Fry for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the bread turns golden and crispy underneath. Flip each toast and continue frying for an additional 1½ to 2 minutes, until the shrimp is fully cooked and the bread is crisp. Once done, transfer the toasts to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Repeat the frying process for the remaining shrimp toasts. Serve the toasts warm for the best flavor and texture.
