Crispy Chinese Sesame Shrimp Toast (Prawn Toast)

Sesame Shrimp Toast is a crunchy, savory, and utterly addictive Chinese appetizer that’s perfect for entertaining or adding flair to your takeout night at home. Made with a flavorful shrimp paste spread over slices of white bread and coated in sesame seeds, then fried to golden perfection—this bite-sized treat is ready in minutes and guaranteed to impress.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• Crispy, golden, and packed with flavor in every bite.
• Perfect as an appetizer or party snack.
• Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients.
• A great introduction to Chinese-style home cooking.
• Delicious both hot and at room temperature—ideal for sharing.

What Is Sesame Shrimp Toast?

Sesame Shrimp Toast, also known as prawn toast, is a popular Chinese dim sum dish that blends seasoned prawn paste with slices of white bread. The bread is topped with the mixture, sprinkled with sesame seeds, and deep-fried until golden and crisp. Often served in Chinese restaurants and takeout spots, it’s crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and incredibly satisfying. The recipe likely originated in Hong Kong and has since gained global popularity.

Cooking Tips

• Use fresh or thawed prawns for the best texture and flavor.
• Trim the crusts for uniform toasting and cleaner presentation.
• Make sure the paste is well-blended and smooth—a food processor helps a lot.
• Use low to medium heat to fry evenly without burning the sesame seeds.
• Fry the prawn side down first to ensure it cooks through and adheres to the bread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake or air-fry prawn toast instead of deep-frying?

Yes. For a lighter version, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes or air-fry at 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes until golden and crisp.

What kind of bread works best?

Use soft white sandwich bread with no strong flavor. Trim the crusts for a classic look and even toasting.

Can I make prawn toast in advance?

You can prep the toast and refrigerate it (uncooked) for up to 4 hours. Fry just before serving for maximum crispness.

Is prawn toast gluten-free?

Not typically, but you can use gluten-free bread and cornstarch to adapt it. Always check ingredient labels for sauces or additives.

Can I use prawns instead of shrimp?

Absolutely! Shrimp and prawns can be used interchangeably in this recipe.

How to Store Sesame Shrimp Toast

Let the prawn toast cool completely before storing. Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispness—avoid the microwave, as it may turn soggy.

How to Freeze Sesame Shrimp Toast

To freeze, prepare the toasts with the prawn paste and sesame seeds but do not fry them yet. Place them on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Cook from frozen, adding 1–2 extra minutes to the frying time. Use within 1 month for best results.

How to Make Sesame Shrimp Toast

Step 1

Step 1

In a food processor, combine prawns, sesame oil, salt, pepper, cornstarch, and egg white. Blend until a smooth, sticky paste forms.

In a food processor, combine prawns, sesame oil, salt, pepper, cornstarch, and egg white. Blend until a smooth, sticky paste forms.

Step 2

Step 2

Trim the crusts from the bread slices and cut each into halves or quarters, depending on preferred serving size.

Trim the crusts from the bread slices and cut each into halves or quarters, depending on preferred serving size.

Step 3

Step 3

Using a spoon or spatula, evenly spread a layer of prawn paste on one side of each bread slice.

Using a spoon or spatula, evenly spread a layer of prawn paste on one side of each bread slice.

Step 4

Step 4

Press sesame seeds onto the prawn-topped side.

Press sesame seeds onto the prawn-topped side.

Step 5

Step 5

In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat enough oil to shallow fry.

In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat enough oil to shallow fry.

Place each toast prawn-side down into the hot oil. Fry for 1 minute, then flip and cook the other side for another minute until golden.

Step 6

Step 6

Place each toast prawn-side down into the hot oil. Fry for 1 minute, then flip and cook the other side for another minute until golden.

Remove the toasts and drain on paper towels. Cut in halves or quarters, and serve hot.