This classic Chinese appetizer features a delicate balance of textures: the crisp, oily crunch of deep-fried bread meets the soft, airy texture of a whipped shrimp mousse. The dish is enhanced by the nutty aroma of white sesame seeds and the savory depth of salt and cornstarch. It is an elegant yet approachable snack perfect for dim sum gatherings, cocktail parties, or as a sophisticated starter before a main course. The shrimp mixture is light and fluffy, providing a satisfying contrast to the sturdy bread base. While traditionally served hot from the fryer, it remains enjoyable for a short while in a warm oven. This recipe captures the essence of home-style Chinese cooking with simple, accessible ingredients that create a memorable culinary experience.
Sesame Shrimp Toast
Description
This classic Chinese appetizer features a delicate balance of textures: the crisp, oily crunch of deep-fried bread meets the soft, airy texture of a whipped shrimp mousse. The dish is enhanced by the nutty aroma of white sesame seeds and the savory depth of salt and cornstarch. It is an elegant yet approachable snack perfect for dim sum gatherings, cocktail parties, or as a sophisticated starter before a main course. The shrimp mixture is light and fluffy, providing a satisfying contrast to the sturdy bread base. While traditionally served hot from the fryer, it remains enjoyable for a short while in a warm oven. This recipe captures the essence of home-style Chinese cooking with simple, accessible ingredients that create a memorable culinary experience.Ingredients
Directions
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Peel and devein the raw shrimp.
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Chop the shrimp finely, then mash or process into a soft pulp using a cleaver or food processor.
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Mix the shrimp pulp with salt and cornstarch until well combined.
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Remove the crusts from the day-old bread and slice each slice into 6 rectangles.
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Separate the eggs and beat the whites until they form stiff peaks.
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Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the shrimp mixture until fully incorporated.
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Heat the oil in a deep pot to medium-hot (approximately 350&# 194;°F/175ðC). Test by dropping a bread crust in; it should brown in 10 seconds.
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Just before frying, spread about 1 teaspoon of the shrimp mixture onto each bread rectangle.
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Sprinkle the shrimp-topped bread pieces generously with raw white sesame seeds.
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Deep-fry 6 pieces at a time, shrimp-side down, until the bottom is browned.
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Carefully flip the toast to brown the bread side; cook for about 3 minutes total until golden and crispy.
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Remove the fried toast to a warm serving platter and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 2198.1kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 212.8g328%
- Saturated Fat 31.7g159%
- Cholesterol 86.3mg29%
- Sodium 1812.7mg76%
- Total Carbohydrate 51.4g18%
- Dietary Fiber 9.1g37%
- Sugars 4.1g
- Protein 31.5g63%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Storage: These are best served immediately after frying. If necessary, they can be kept warm in an oven for about 30 minutes, but they will lose crispiness.
Bread Choice: The original recipe suggests heavy wheat bread for a chewy texture, but light white bread yields a crisper result and absorbs less oil. Choose based on your preference.
Variation: Some tea houses stretch the shrimp mixture by adding one-third soft-flesh fish for a different texture and budget-friendly option.
Safety: Be careful when deep-frying as the shrimp mixture is runny and the pieces may become buoyant and uncooperative in the oil. Keep a close eye on them.
Serving Tip: For large gatherings, fry a second batch midway through the meal to ensure everyone gets hot, crispy toast. Frying 18 pieces takes about 7 minutes.
