Shrimp Toast Recipe

Shrimp: Peeled and deveined, these are the main protein and flavor component of the dish.

White bread: Acts as the base for the shrimp mixture, providing a crispy texture when fried.

Soy sauce: Adds a salty, umami flavor to the shrimp mixture.

Sesame oil: Provides a nutty, aromatic flavor that complements the shrimp.

Garlic: Adds a pungent, savory taste to the mixture.

Ginger: Offers a warm, spicy note that enhances the overall flavor.

Green onions: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor and a bit of color.

Oil for frying: Used to fry the bread, giving it a golden, crispy texture.

When making shrimp toast, ensure the shrimp paste is finely chopped to achieve a smooth and even texture. This allows the shrimp mixture to adhere better to the bread and ensures even cooking. Additionally, using day-old bread can help prevent the toast from becoming too soggy during frying.

• shrimp - Substitute with scallops: Scallops have a similar texture and mild flavor, making them a good alternative for shrimp in this recipe.

• shrimp - Substitute with firm tofu: Firm tofu can mimic the texture of shrimp when properly seasoned and cooked, offering a vegetarian option.

• white bread - Substitute with whole wheat bread: Whole wheat bread provides more fiber and nutrients while still offering a similar texture for the toast base.

• white bread - Substitute with gluten-free bread: For those with gluten intolerance, gluten-free bread can be used without significantly altering the recipe's texture.

• soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce that offers a similar umami flavor.

• soy sauce - Substitute with coconut aminos: Coconut aminos are a soy-free and gluten-free alternative that provides a slightly sweeter flavor.

• sesame oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil can be used in place of sesame oil, though it will lack the nutty flavor. Add a small amount of toasted sesame seeds to compensate.

• sesame oil - Substitute with peanut oil: Peanut oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a good alternative for frying.

• garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, sweeter flavor that can complement the other ingredients well.

• garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in place of fresh garlic, though it will have a slightly different texture and intensity.

• ginger - Substitute with galangal: Galangal has a similar spicy and aromatic profile, though it is slightly more citrusy.

• ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used in place of fresh ginger, though it will have a less intense flavor.

• green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives offer a similar mild onion flavor and can be used as a direct replacement.

• green onions - Substitute with leeks: Leeks provide a slightly sweeter and more delicate onion flavor, making them a good alternative.

• oil for frying - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a high smoke point and neutral flavor, making it suitable for frying.

• oil for frying - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil also has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it another good option for frying.

• Allow the shrimp toast to cool completely at room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the toast soggy.
• Place the cooled shrimp toast in an airtight container. If stacking, separate each layer with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
• Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freezing is recommended.
• To freeze, lay the shrimp toast slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
• Once frozen, transfer the shrimp toast to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. Label with the date and use within 1 month for optimal flavor.
• When ready to enjoy, reheat the shrimp toast directly from the freezer. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen slices on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
• Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil and cook each side for 2-3 minutes until warmed and crispy.
• Avoid microwaving as it can make the shrimp toast chewy and less crispy.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the shrimp toast on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until heated through and crispy.

• For a quicker method, use a toaster oven. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and toast the shrimp toast for 3-5 minutes. This will help maintain its crispiness.

• If you prefer using a skillet, heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil and place the shrimp toast shrimp side down. Cook for 2-3 minutes, then flip and heat the other side for another minute.

• For microwave reheating, place the shrimp toast on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the shrimp toast in a single layer in the basket and air fry for 3-4 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

• Knife: To chop the shrimp into a fine paste and to mince the garlic and ginger.

• Cutting board: A surface to chop the shrimp, garlic, and ginger.

• Mixing bowl: To combine the shrimp paste, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and green onions.

• Spatula: To spread the shrimp mixture evenly on the bread slices.

• Frying pan: To heat the oil and fry the shrimp toast.

• Tongs: To flip the bread while frying.

• Paper towels: To drain the excess oil from the fried shrimp toast.

• Plate: To serve the hot shrimp toast.

Prepare the shrimp paste in advance: Chop the shrimp and mix with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and green onions the night before.

Use a food processor: Quickly create a fine shrimp paste by pulsing all ingredients in a food processor.

Preheat the oil: Start heating the oil while you prepare the bread and shrimp mixture.

Use stale bread: Slightly stale bread absorbs less oil and fries faster.

Batch frying: Fry multiple shrimp toasts at once to save time.