Prawn Toast: Simple Recipe for Seafood Lovers
Prawn Toast or Shrimp Toast as it is known in some parts of the world, is a popular appetizer that has become a staple in many Asian cuisine-inspired gatherings. This delicious dish is known for its crunch, flavor, and relatively easy preparation. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, craving some comfort food, or simply looking to expand your culinary repertoire, this prawn toast recipe will certainly satisfy your taste buds.
Why Make Prawn Toast?
Here are several compelling reasons to add prawn toast to your home-cooked meals:
- Versatility: Prawn toast can be an appetizer, a snack, or even part of a meal.
- Quick Prep: You can prepare the mixture in advance and fry the toasts right before serving.
- Cost-effective: Ingredients are simple and often available at affordable prices.
- Crowd Pleaser: It’s a universally loved dish that caters to a wide variety of palates.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need:
- 200g raw prawns, peeled and deveined
- 2 cloves of garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon of soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon of cornflour or potato starch
- 1 egg white
- 4 slices of white bread, crusts removed
- 2 tablespoons of sesame seeds
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Preparation
Preparing the Prawn Mixture
- Start by cleaning the prawns thoroughly.
- Place the prawns, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, soy sauce, cornflour, egg white, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Pulse until you get a coarse paste.
- Be careful not to over-process; the mixture should be spreadable but still have some texture.
Assembling the Prawn Toast
- Spread an even layer of the prawn mixture onto each slice of bread, covering the surface completely.
- Cut each slice into four triangles or squares.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds over the prawn mixture, pressing gently to help them stick.
Frying the Prawn Toast
- Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or wok until it reaches a temperature of around 180°C (350°F).
- Lower the prawn toast into the oil with the prawn side down first. You might need to do this in batches.
- Fry for 1-2 minutes until the prawn mixture is golden brown and cooked through.
- Flip the toast to fry the bread side for another minute or until crisp and golden.
- Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
💡 Note: When frying, ensure the oil is at the right temperature to avoid the toasts absorbing excess oil and becoming soggy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your prawn toasts hot and with:
- A light drizzle of sweet chili sauce or hoisin sauce
- A sprinkle of chopped spring onions or cilantro
- Optional: A side salad or small cucumber slices for a refreshing contrast
This recap of prawn toast preparation outlines the simple steps from preparing the prawn mixture to frying, serving, and enjoyment. It's an easy recipe that blends texture and flavor, making it an ideal addition to any meal or appetizer spread.
Can I make prawn toast in advance?
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Yes, you can prepare the prawn mixture and spread it on the bread ahead of time. Refrigerate them until you’re ready to fry. However, frying should be done just before serving to keep the toasts crisp.
Is there a vegetarian version of prawn toast?
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Absolutely, you can replace prawns with ingredients like mashed tofu, mushrooms, or even a combination of beans for a vegetarian variant.
What oil is best for frying prawn toast?
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Vegetable oils with a high smoke point like peanut oil, canola oil, or vegetable oil are recommended for deep frying to ensure the toast remains light and crispy.