Shrimp toast is a appetizer that combines the rich, savory flavors of shrimp with the satisfying crunch of golden-fried bread. Its crispy texture, umami-packed shrimp topping, and versatility make it an irresistible choice for parties, family gatherings, or a cozy night in.
What is Shrimp Toast?
Shrimp toast is a fusion dish that features a shrimp paste spread over slices of bread, often white or sandwich bread, which is then deep-fried or air-fried until golden brown. The shrimp mixture is typically seasoned with garlic, ginger, scallions, and soy sauce, offering a delightful balance of flavors. It’s a bite-sized treat that pairs perfectly with dipping sauces like sweet chili sauce or soy-based concoctions.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Shrimp Toast
- Use Fresh Shrimp: The key to flavorful shrimp toast is starting with fresh, high-quality shrimp. Frozen shrimp can work, but ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture.
- Blend to Perfection: Achieve a smooth yet slightly textured shrimp paste by pulsing the ingredients in a food processor. Avoid over-blending to maintain a pleasant texture.
- Choose the Right Bread: Soft white bread is the traditional choice, but brioche or sourdough can add a unique twist. Remove the crusts for even cooking and a more refined look.
- Optimal Frying Temperature: Fry the toast at 350°F (175°C). This ensures a crispy exterior while the shrimp cooks thoroughly without becoming greasy.
- Air-Frying for a Healthier Option: For a lighter version, air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes. Brush with a light layer of oil for maximum crispiness.
Variations of Shrimp Toast
- Baked Shrimp Toast: Skip the frying by baking the toast in a 400°F (200°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until golden.
- Spicy Shrimp Toast: Add a teaspoon of Sriracha or chili flakes to the shrimp mixture for a kick of heat.
- Cheesy Shrimp Toast: Top with shredded mozzarella or Parmesan before cooking for a gooey, indulgent version.
- Gluten-Free Shrimp Toast: Use gluten-free bread and tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-friendly take.
- Vietnamese-Inspired Shrimp Toast: Incorporate fish sauce, cilantro, and a dash of sugar into the shrimp mixture for a Southeast Asian twist.
How to Serve Shrimp Toast
- Dipping Sauces: Pair shrimp toast with sauces like sweet chili sauce, hoisin, soy-ginger dipping sauce, or a tangy lime aioli.
- As a Starter: Serve it as an appetizer on a platter with a mix of Asian-inspired finger foods like spring rolls or dumplings.
- Garnishes: Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds, thinly sliced scallions, or fresh cilantro for a pop of flavor and color.
- With a Side Salad: Complement the richness of the shrimp toast with a refreshing cucumber salad or slaw.
How to Store and Reheat Shrimp Toast
- Storing:
- Store leftover shrimp toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Avoid stacking the pieces without parchment paper to maintain their crispness.
- Freezing:
- Prepare the shrimp toasts but don’t cook them. Instead, freeze them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
- To cook, fry or bake directly from frozen—no need to thaw.
- Reheating:
- Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5–8 minutes to restore their crunch. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the toast soggy.
Recipe FAQs
1. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for shrimp toast?
Yes, but fresh raw shrimp is preferred as it binds better into a paste. If using pre-cooked shrimp, ensure it’s finely chopped and mix with an egg white for better adhesion.
2. What type of oil is best for frying shrimp toast?
Neutral oils like canola, vegetable, or peanut oil are ideal as they don’t overpower the flavor of the shrimp.
3. Can I make shrimp toast in advance?
Yes! Assemble the toasts ahead of time and refrigerate them uncooked. Fry or bake them fresh before serving.
4. Why is my shrimp toast greasy?
This can happen if the frying oil is not hot enough. Use a thermometer to maintain the oil at the correct temperature.
5. Can I add other proteins to the mixture?
Absolutely! Add crab meat or finely chopped scallops to the shrimp mixture for a seafood medley.
Shrimp Toast (Crispy Fried)
Shrimp toast is a appetizer that combines the rich, savory flavors of shrimp with the satisfying crunch of golden-fried bread. Its crispy texture, umami-packed shrimp topping, and versatility make it an irresistible choice for parties, family gatherings, or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 1 cup bread crumbs
- 5 milk bread slices, crusts removed and each slice cut into 4 triangles
- 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 egg
- pinch of salt
- 2 scallions, finely chopped
Instructions
- In a food processor, add shrimp, egg and salt. Pulse until smooth.
- Add chopped scallions and pulse until scallions are combined.
- Evenly spread the shrimp mixture on the top of each triangle.
- Heat a pot on medium high heat. Add oil, once hot.
- Dip the shrimp mixture side ot toast into the breadcrumbs to coat well.
- Fry in the hot oil until golden, flip and toast the other side for about few minutes.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately with sweet hot sauce.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 398Total Fat 12gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 5gCholesterol 227mgSodium 1105mgCarbohydrates 48gFiber 2gSugar 7gProtein 24g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Check my other shrimp recipes:
Final Thoughts
Shrimp toast is a timeless appetizer that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Whether you prefer it fried, baked, or air-fried, this crispy and flavorful snack is sure to impress. With endless variations and serving possibilities, shrimp toast is a must-try for any food enthusiast. Perfect for parties or weeknight indulgence, it’s a dish that’ll keep your guests coming back for more.
