Name: Fried Shrimp Toast Bliss: Crispy Goodness in Every Bite
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 slices White Bread (Gluten-free bread works as a substitute.); 8 oz Shrimp (Fresh or frozen.); 1 oz Pork Fat (Butter can be used as a lighter alternative.); 1 large Egg White (Yolk can be omitted for a lighter option.); 2 stalks Green Onions (Chives can be used as an alternative.); 2 tsp Cornstarch (Flour can replace it if preferred.); 1 tbsp Fish Sauce (Soy sauce is a vegetarian substitute.); 1 tsp Garlic Powder (Fresh minced garlic can be used.); 1 tsp Sugar (Coconut sugar offers a unique twist.); 1 tsp Sesame Oil (Omit for a neutral flavor.); 1/2 tsp White Pepper (Black pepper can be used instead.); Sesame Seeds (Optional for presentation.)

As I stood over the sizzling oil, the tantalizing aroma of shrimp and savory pork fat wafted through the air, stirring memories of delightful evenings spent with loved ones. Today, I want to share my crispy fried shrimp toast recipe, an easy Asian appetizer that’s perfect for impressing your family and friends. This dish is not only a quick prep but also a show-stopper that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. With its crunchy exterior and juicy filling, it’s a delightful marriage of flavors that invites you to explore the vibrant tastes of Asian cuisine from the comfort of your kitchen. So, are you ready to elevate your appetizer game with a dish that makes every gathering feel special? Let’s dive in!

Why Is Fried Shrimp Toast So Irresistible?

Crispy Delight: The beautifully golden crust gives each bite a satisfying crunch, making it hard to resist.
Savory Filling: Juicy shrimp blended with pork fat creates a mouthwatering explosion of flavor, perfect for seafood lovers.
Quick Prep: Whip up this appetizer in no time, allowing you to spend more moments with family or friends.
Versatile Pairing: Serve with a dipping sauce like sweet chili sauce for an extra layer of deliciousness.
Cultural Charm: This dish echoes the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine, bringing a taste of Asia right to your home.

For more delightful seafood appetizers, check out my recipe for Stuffed Shrimp Savory or a refreshing Cold Shrimp Salad!

Fried Shrimp Toast Ingredients

• Get ready to gather some fantastic flavors!

For the Toast

White Bread – This is the base for your fried shrimp toast; gluten-free bread works as a substitute if needed.
Shrimp (1/2 lb) – The star ingredient, fresh or frozen, adds sweetness and texture to your dish.
Pork Fat (1 oz) – This adds richness and juiciness; you can use butter for a lighter alternative.

For the Mixture

Egg White (1) – Binds the ingredients; feel free to omit the yolk for a lighter option.
Green Onions (2) – Freshness and flavor are essential; chives can be used if you’re out of green onions.
Cornstarch (2 tsp) – Provides that perfect crispiness; flour can replace it if you prefer.
Fish Sauce (1 tbsp) – This brings a delicious umami flavor; substitute with soy sauce for a vegetarian option.
Garlic Powder (1 tsp) – Elevates the overall flavor; fresh minced garlic can be a fantastic alternative.
Sugar (1 tsp) – Balances the dish’s flavors; coconut sugar gives a unique twist.
Sesame Oil (1 tsp) – Adds a nutty aroma; you can omit it for a neutral flavor if desired.
White Pepper (1/2 tsp) – Adds a mild kick; black pepper works just as well.

For Garnish

Sesame Seeds – Optional but provides an extra crunch and a lovely presentation.

Now that you’ve got all the ingredients, let’s embark on the delightful journey of frying up some irresistible fried shrimp toast!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fried Shrimp Toast

Step 1: Prepare Shrimp Mixture
Begin by blending the shrimp, pork fat, egg white, chopped green onions, cornstarch, fish sauce, garlic powder, sugar, sesame oil, and white pepper in a food processor. Process until the mixture is smooth and well combined, which should take about 1-2 minutes. This rich blend is the heart of your fried shrimp toast, offering a savory and juicy filling.

Step 2: Cut Bread
Take your white bread and trim off the crusts for a smoother bite. If desired, cut the bread slices into quarters to create delightful bite-sized pieces. Lay the prepared bread on a flat surface, ready for the shrimp mixture to be spread generously on top, ensuring ample coverage for that crispy toast finish.

Step 3: Assemble Toasts
Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, spread a generous amount of the shrimp mixture onto each bread piece. Make sure the mixture evenly covers the surface, allowing for a delightful burst of flavor in every bite. This step is crucial for maintaining the juicy filling as the toast fries.

Step 4: Choose Cooking Method
For frying, heat oil in a deep pan to 325°F. Carefully place the assembled shrimp toast mixture side down in the hot oil, frying for about 2 minutes until golden brown. Flip each piece and fry for another minute until crispy. Alternatively, for an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F and air-fry the toast shrimp side up for 7-9 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Step 5: Oven Method
If you prefer using an oven, preheat it to 400°F and place the shrimp toast on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Bake for around 10 minutes, flipping them halfway to achieve an evenly crisp texture. This method still ensures a delightful crunch, while being a bit less hands-on than frying.

Step 6: Serve Warm
Once cooked to a lovely golden hue and crispy texture, carefully remove the fried shrimp toast from the oil or oven. Garnish with sesame seeds and extra chopped green onions for a pop of flavor and presentation. Serve warm to enjoy this mouthwatering appetizer at its best, bringing the taste of Fried Shrimp Toast to your table.

Expert Tips for Fried Shrimp Toast

Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough (325°F) before frying to avoid soggy bread. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
Even Mixture: Blend the shrimp mixture until smooth and well combined. A chunky mixture may not adhere well to the bread.
Cooking Method: If using an air fryer, flip the toast halfway through cooking for even crispiness. Adjust timing based on your appliance.
Gentle Handling: Use a spatula to lift the toast carefully while frying to prevent the shrimp mixture from sliding off.
Crisp Serving: For the best texture, serve the fried shrimp toast immediately after cooking. It’s best enjoyed fresh and hot!

What to Serve with Fried Shrimp Toast

There’s magic in pairing the right sides with your delicious shrimp toast, enhancing every bite.

Sweet Chili Sauce: A must-try for adding a perfect balance of sweetness and heat, elevating the shrimp toast experience.
Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy, vegetable-packed delights provide a contrasting texture while maintaining an Asian flair.
Sesame Noodles: A chilled noodle salad brings a refreshing taste alongside the rich flavors of shrimp toast, creating a delightful meal.
Mango Salad: The sweet and tangy fresh mango adds brightness and vibrancy, perfectly complementing the savory shrimp filling.
Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed in a light vinegar dressing create a refreshing counterpoint to the warm toast.
Herbal Iced Tea: A refreshing sip to cleanse your palate between bites, boosting the overall dining experience.
Green Cilantro Rice: Its fragrant aroma and herbal notes pair beautifully with shrimpy goodness, grounding the dish in flavor.
Lemon Sorbet: As a dessert, it provides a cool finish that brightens your taste buds after the rich shrimp toast.

Fried Shrimp Toast Variations to Try

Customize your fried shrimp toast to suit your taste buds and dietary needs. Each twist brings a unique flair to this classic dish!

Dairy-Free: Use olive oil instead of pork fat for a lighter, dairy-free version that still packs a punch.
Vegetarian Delight: Swap shrimp with mashed chickpeas and spices for a satisfying vegetarian alternative. It keeps the texture delightful and filling!
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha to the shrimp mixture for an extra layer of heat and excitement.
Seafood Remix: Experiment with crab meat or even cooked fish instead of shrimp for a fresh seafood twist that will surprise your palate.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or basil into the shrimp filling for an aromatic burst of flavor in every bite.
Crunchy Topping: Before frying, sprinkle chopped nuts like peanuts or cashews on the shrimp mixture for an unexpected crunch that complements the dish beautifully!
Nutty Aroma: Infuse the mix with a touch of hoisin sauce to deepen the umami notes while adding a hint of sweetness.
Crispy Bake: Instead of frying, coat the toasts in panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunch when baked in the oven. Perfect for a guilt-free treat!

For more delightful seafood variations, don’t miss my recipe for Stuffed Shrimp Savory or try a refreshing Cold Shrimp Salad as a side dish!

How to Store and Freeze Fried Shrimp Toast

Fridge: Store leftover fried shrimp toast in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This helps maintain its flavors while preventing it from becoming soggy.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unassembled shrimp toast (bread with mixture) in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container. It freezes well for up to 1 month.

Reheating: Reheat fried shrimp toast in an air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 10 minutes until heated through and crispy again.

Avoid sogginess: If storing fried shrimp toast, consume it fresh for the best texture but remember that freezing the mixture can be a great way to prep in advance!

Make Ahead Options

These Fried Shrimp Toasts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the shrimp mixture up to 24 hours in advance by blending all the ingredients and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Meanwhile, you can cut the bread and keep it in a separate container (to prevent it from getting soggy). When you’re ready to serve, simply spread the shrimp mixture on the bread, then choose your cooking method. Fry, air-fry, or bake as instructed, ensuring they’re cooked to a golden brown for that satisfying crunch. This way, you’ll have a delicious, impressive appetizer ready to go with minimal effort and more time to enjoy your gathering!

Fried Shrimp Toast Recipe FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use for Fried Shrimp Toast?
Absolutely! Fresh shrimp is ideal for its sweetness and texture, but frozen shrimp will work just fine too. Just be sure to thaw frozen shrimp completely and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture before blending them into your mixture.

How should I store leftover Fried Shrimp Toast?
You can store leftover fried shrimp toast in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the fridge. This helps maintain its delicious flavors while preventing the bread from becoming soggy. To reheat, use an air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes or pop it in a preheated oven at 400°F for around 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.

Can I freeze Fried Shrimp Toast?
Yes, you can freeze it! To do this, assemble the shrimp toast (bread with the mixture) in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Afterward, transfer it to an airtight container or a freezer bag. It keeps well for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, you can fry it straight from frozen, just add a couple of minutes to the cooking time.

What should I do if my shrimp mixture is too chunky?
Very important! If your shrimp mixture seems chunky, simply blend it longer until it becomes smooth and well combined. A smoother mixture adheres better to the bread during frying, resulting in a delightful texture and preventing any mishaps while cooking.

Are there any dietary considerations for Fried Shrimp Toast?
Yes! For those with allergies, ensure that the shrimp is sourced carefully, and substitute fish sauce with soy sauce for a vegetarian option. If you need it gluten-free, use gluten-free bread and cornstarch. Always double-check ingredient labels for potential allergens, especially for soy and shrimp.

Can I prepare the shrimp mixture ahead of time?
Of course! You can make the shrimp mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours in an airtight container. Just make sure to use it within that timeframe. This is a fantastic way to save time before a gathering!