Shrimp Toast

Shrimp Toast Recipe from China with Water Chestnuts and Scallions

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Shrimp toast is a popular Chinese appetizer that consists of a savory shrimp mixture spread on slices of bread and deep-fried until crispy. This dish is a delicious and easy-to-make snack that is perfect for parties or as a starter for a Chinese meal.

History

Shrimp toast is believed to have originated in China and has been a popular dish in Chinese cuisine for many years. It is often served at dim sum restaurants and is enjoyed by people all over the world.

Ingredients

8 slices of white bread with the crusts removed (should be 1 – 2 days old)
water
0.75 lb (340 g) fresh shrimp, shelled, deveined, and chopped
2 - 3 water chestnuts, diced
0.5 medium onion, diced
1 scallion, chopped fine
salt to taste
white pepper to taste
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 tbsp cornstarch
a few drops of sesame oil
2 - 4 cups of oil for deep-frying

How to prepare

Cut each slice of bread into 4 squares (32 squares total).
Combine the diced water chestnuts, onion, shrimp, and minced until fine.
Add the scallion, cornstarch, egg, white pepper, and sesame oil.
Mix together.
Place a heaping teaspoon of the shrimp mixture on a bread square.
Continue with each of the bread squares.
Heat a wok and add 2-4 cups of oil.
Heat the oil to 375°F (191°C).
Carefully slide the bread pieces into the wok, a few slices at a time, with the shrimp mixture facing down.
Deep-fry until golden, about 2 minutes, then turn and deep-fry on the other side.
Drain on paper towels.
Serve hot.

Variations

Add chopped water chestnuts or bamboo shoots to the shrimp mixture for added crunch.
Use different types of bread, such as whole wheat or sourdough, for a unique flavor.
Add minced garlic or ginger to the shrimp mixture for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use fresh shrimp for the best flavor.

- Be sure to remove the crusts from the bread to ensure a crispy texture.

- Deep-fry the shrimp toast in batches to ensure even cooking.

- Drain the shrimp toast on paper towels after frying to remove excess oil.

Serving Suggestions

Shrimp toast can be served with a side of sweet chili sauce or soy sauce for dipping.

Cooking Techniques

Deep-frying is the traditional cooking technique for shrimp toast, but you can also bake them in the oven for a healthier option.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the shrimp with ground chicken or pork for a different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the shrimp mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to use. Fry the shrimp toast just before serving for the best results.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the shrimp toast on a platter garnished with sliced scallions or sesame seeds for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Shrimp toast pairs well with other Chinese appetizers such as spring rolls or potstickers.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover shrimp toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven until crispy.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of shrimp toast contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of shrimp toast contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of shrimp toast contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of shrimp toast contains approximately 8 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Shrimp toast is a good source of vitamin B12, selenium, and phosphorus.

Alergens

Shrimp toast contains shellfish and gluten from the bread.

Summary

Shrimp toast is a delicious appetizer that is relatively high in calories and fats, but also provides a good amount of protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Shrimp toast is a delicious and crispy appetizer that is perfect for parties or as a starter for a Chinese meal. With a savory shrimp mixture spread on slices of bread and deep-fried until golden, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Shrimp Toast. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small fishing village by the sea. My grandmother, who was known for her culinary skills, had invited a famous chef from the city to teach us some new dishes.

I watched in awe as the chef demonstrated how to make the Shrimp Toast. He carefully chopped the shrimp into small pieces and mixed them with minced garlic, ginger, and green onions. He then spread the mixture onto slices of white bread and fried them until they were golden brown and crispy. The aroma that filled the room was simply divine.

I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish. I begged the chef to teach me his secrets, and he kindly agreed. He took me under his wing and showed me step by step how to recreate the Shrimp Toast in my own kitchen.

As I practiced making the dish over and over again, I began to add my own twist to the recipe. I experimented with different seasonings and spices, trying to find the perfect combination that would make the Shrimp Toast truly unforgettable.

Over the years, I have shared this recipe with friends and family, always receiving rave reviews. It has become a staple at our family gatherings and special occasions. The Shrimp Toast is not just a dish, but a memory of that special day when I first learned to make it.

One of my favorite memories of making Shrimp Toast was when my granddaughter came to visit me. She had always been interested in cooking and was eager to learn from me. I decided to pass on the recipe for Shrimp Toast to her, just as my grandmother had done for me.

Together, we stood side by side in the kitchen, chopping shrimp and mixing the ingredients. I watched as my granddaughter's eyes lit up with excitement, just like mine had so many years ago. She carefully spread the mixture onto the bread and fried it until it was golden brown and crispy.

When we finally sat down to enjoy our creation, I could see the pride in my granddaughter's eyes. She had mastered the art of making Shrimp Toast, and I knew that she would carry on the tradition for generations to come.

As I sit here reflecting on that special moment, I am filled with gratitude for all the recipes and memories that have been passed down to me. Each dish tells a story, a story of love, family, and tradition. And the recipe for Shrimp Toast will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the day I first learned to make it and the joy it has brought to so many others.