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This classic Sesame Prawn Toast recipe transforms simple ingredients into a crispy, savory delight that rivals any Chinese takeaway. The combination of fresh prawns, aromatic seasonings, and crunchy sesame seeds creates an irresistible appetizer that disappears quickly from any serving plate.
I first made these for a Chinese New Year celebration, and they've become my signature appetizer. The look on people's faces when they bite into the crispy exterior and taste the juicy prawn filling is priceless every single time.
Ingredients
- White bread: The foundation that provides structure. Choose a quality white sandwich bread that's not too airy for best results
- Prawns in shell: Fresh is essential for the best flavor. Look for plump, firm prawns with a clean ocean scent
- Spring onions: These add a mild onion flavor and freshness. Select bright green ones with firm white bases
- Light soy sauce: Adds saltiness and umami depth. A quality brand makes a difference in the final flavor
- Fresh ginger: Provides essential warmth and spice. Choose firm pieces with smooth skin for easy grating
- Garlic: Small but mighty flavor enhancer. Look for tight, firm bulbs without any sprouting
- Egg: Acts as a binder to hold everything together. Room temperature works best for even mixing
- Sesame seeds: Creates the signature crunch and nutty flavor. Toast them lightly beforehand for extra flavor
- Vegetable oil: For the perfect crispy exterior. Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point
- Sweet chilli sauce: The perfect dipping companion. Look for one with visible chili flecks for best flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the bread:
- Cut crusts off white bread and halve each slice. The overnight drying is crucial as it prevents the bread from becoming soggy when topped with the prawn mixture and fried. The bread should feel slightly stale but not completely hardened.
- Process the prawn mixture:
- Combine roughly chopped prawns with spring onions, soy sauce, ginger, garlic and egg in a food processor. The key is pulsing rather than continuous processing to maintain some texture. You want a cohesive mixture that still has small chunks of prawn for the best mouthfeel.
- Assemble the toast:
- Spread approximately 1cm of prawn mixture evenly across each bread piece. Ensure the layer is even to promote consistent cooking. Press firmly enough that the mixture adheres well but not so hard that you compress the bread.
- Add sesame seeds:
- Roll each piece prawn side down into sesame seeds, pressing gently to ensure good coverage. The seeds should completely cover the prawn mixture forming a protective crust that will become golden and crispy when fried.
- Fry to perfection:
- Heat oil to exactly 180C and maintain this temperature throughout cooking. Lower each piece sesame side down first and fry for 2-3 minutes until golden. The oil should bubble steadily but not violently around each piece.
- Drain and serve:
- Place cooked pieces seed side down on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve immediately while hot and crispy for the optimal texture and flavor experience.
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The ginger is my secret weapon in this recipe. I learned from my Chinese friend's grandmother to grate it fresh just before using to release those essential oils that give the prawn mixture its aromatic quality. It transforms what could be just a simple appetizer into something truly memorable.
Make Ahead Magic
These prawn toasts can be fully prepared up to the frying stage and frozen for later use. Arrange the assembled but uncooked toasts on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to freezer bags. When ready to serve, fry directly from frozen, adding about 1-2 minutes to the cooking time. This makes them perfect for emergency entertaining or when you want to prep party food well in advance.
Perfect Pairing Ideas
Sesame prawn toast complements other Chinese appetizers beautifully in a homemade dim sum spread. Serve alongside spring rolls, dumplings, and sticky chicken wings for an impressive array. For beverages, a crisp Riesling or jasmine tea cuts through the richness perfectly. The sweet chili dipping sauce is traditional, but a simple mix of soy sauce, rice vinegar and a touch of honey makes an excellent alternative.
Troubleshooting Tips
If your prawn mixture seems too wet, add a tablespoon of cornstarch to help it hold together better. For bread that hasn't dried adequately, a quick 10 minutes in a 160°C oven works in a pinch. The most common issue is oil temperature fluctuation which can lead to greasy toast. Using a candy thermometer and frying in small batches helps maintain consistent heat for that perfect golden crispness.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → What is sesame prawn toast?
Sesame prawn toast is a popular Chinese-inspired appetizer made with bread topped with a prawn mixture, coated in sesame seeds, and fried until golden brown.
- → How should I dry the bread for prawn toast?
Dry the bread overnight on a wire rack covered with a tea towel, or bake in a 160C oven for 10-15 minutes to save time.
- → How do I know the prawn toast is cooked through?
Cut one toast open after frying to ensure the prawn filling is opaque and fully cooked.
- → Can I make prawn toast ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the prawn mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
- → Can I freeze prawn toast?
Yes, it's best to freeze them uncooked. For details on the best method, visit the full post.