Print

Crispy Golden Shrimp Toast Bites

crispy golden shrimp toast bites - featured image

These crispy golden shrimp toast bites are a quick and easy appetizer featuring a crunchy toasted bread base topped with a savory shrimp paste. Perfect for entertaining, potlucks, or a tasty snack, they deliver a delightful combination of textures and flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (medium or large, fresh or thawed frozen)
  • 8 slices white bread, crusts removed (day-old recommended)
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 tsp fresh grated ginger
  • 2 stalks scallions, finely chopped
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
  • ¼ tsp white pepper (optional)
  • Vegetable oil for frying (canola or peanut oil recommended)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the shrimp paste: In a food processor, pulse the shrimp until finely chopped but not pureed—about 10-12 pulses (1-2 minutes). Alternatively, finely mince with a sharp knife until almost paste-like with some texture remaining.
  2. Mix the seasoning: Transfer the shrimp to a mixing bowl. Add minced garlic, grated ginger, chopped scallions, beaten egg, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and white pepper. Stir well until evenly combined and sticky enough to hold on the bread.
  3. Prepare the bread: Cut each crustless slice of white bread into 4 equal squares (about 2-inch pieces). Lightly toast the bread pieces in a pan or toaster until just golden to prevent sogginess.
  4. Assemble the bites: Spread a generous layer of the shrimp paste evenly over each bread square, slightly mounding it.
  5. Heat the oil: Pour vegetable oil into a skillet to about ¼-inch depth. Heat over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking (around 325-350°F / 160-175°C). Test by dropping a small bit of shrimp paste; it should sizzle immediately.
  6. Fry the bites: Place shrimp-topped bread squares shrimp side down first. Fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy, then flip and fry the bread side for another 1-2 minutes until cooked through and crisp.
  7. Drain and serve: Remove bites with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm with dipping sauces like sweet chili or soy sauce.

Notes

Use day-old bread to prevent sogginess. Keep shrimp paste cold until frying to hold shape better. Don’t overcrowd the pan to maintain oil temperature. Wet hands slightly when spreading shrimp paste to avoid sticking. Baking option: bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, brushing bread with oil beforehand.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp toast, appetizer, crispy shrimp bites, easy appetizer, party food, dim sum, seafood appetizer