There’s a certain magic in the kitchen when the aroma of freshly air-fried Sesame Shrimp Toast fills the air. This beloved dish, a staple from my upbringing, perfectly pairs the crunch of golden bread with the savory goodness of shrimp, garlic, and sesame oil. Imagine sinking your teeth into the crispy exterior, only to reveal a moist, flavorful shrimp filling that dances on your taste buds.
What I adore about this recipe is how effortlessly it straddles the line between indulgence and health; by using an air fryer, we retain that addictive crispiness while cutting down on oil. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a delicious homemade bite, this Sesame Shrimp Toast will not disappoint. Perfect as a snack or a fancy appetizer, it’s a dish that brings warmth, nostalgia, and a little taste of my heritage right into your kitchen. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and bring your snacking game to a whole new level!
Why is Sesame Shrimp Toast so special?
Crispy, golden delight: This air fryer recipe ensures a crunch that rivals traditional frying, giving you that satisfying texture without excess oil.
Savory shrimp filling: Infused with garlic and sesame oil, each bite bursts with rich umami flavor.
Healthier alternative: Enjoy your favorite dim sum dish guilt-free, making it a perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion.
Quick preparation: Ready in just over 15 minutes, it’s an effortless way to elevate your home cooking.
Crowd-pleaser appeal: Whether hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, this dish is sure to impress with its delicious flavors and stunning presentation.
Sesame Shrimp Toast Ingredients
For the Shrimp Filling
• Shrimp – Choose peeled, deveined shrimp for the best flavor and ease of preparation.
• Salt – Use to taste, as it enhances the savory flavor of the shrimp filling.
• White Pepper – Adds a mild heat; black pepper can work as a substitute if needed.
• Sugar – Balances the savory shrimp flavors; optional if you prefer to reduce sweetness.
• Garlic – Fresh garlic will infuse aromatic flavor into the shrimp paste, elevating the dish.
• Scallions – Use only the green parts for a mild onion flavor and bright freshness.
• Sesame Seeds – Adds a delightful crunch and rich, nutty flavor to the toast.
• Egg White – Acts as a binder for the shrimp paste, helping to hold everything together.
• Corn Starch – Provides structure and crispiness; all-purpose flour can be used as a substitute.
For the Base
• White Bread – Trim crusts for a cleaner look and better texture when air frying.
• Oil (liquid or spray) – To ensure crispiness, use a non-stick spray when air frying, minimizing oil use.
For the Spicy Mayo Dipping Sauce
• Kewpie Mayo – A flavorful base for the dipping sauce; substitute with regular mayo if needed.
• Sriracha Sauce – Adjust according to your spice preference; adds delightful heat to the mayo.
• Sugar (for mayo) – Optional, depending on your sweetness preference for the dipping sauce.
• Sesame Oil – Enhances the flavor of the mayo; can be omitted for a lighter taste.
• Lemon Juice – Adds acidity and brightness to the sauce; lime juice can work as an alternative.
This Sesame Shrimp Toast combines all the right ingredients for a savory, crispy delight that will be a hit at any meal!
How to Make Sesame Shrimp Toast
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Prepare Shrimp Paste: Begin by patting the shrimp dry; this step is essential for achieving the perfect texture. Smash and mince the shrimp into a paste using a knife or food processor until smooth.
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Make Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp paste with salt, white pepper, sugar, minced garlic, chopped scallions, sesame seeds, egg white, and corn starch. Mix thoroughly until everything is well blended, creating a cohesive filling.
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Assemble Sandwiches: Trim the crusts off each slice of bread for a clean finish. Spread about ¼ of the shrimp mixture onto each slice, top with another piece of bread, and seal the edges securely using a butter knife to ensure nothing spills out during cooking.
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Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Once hot, arrange the shrimp sandwiches in a single layer. Air fry for 6 minutes, carefully flip them over, and then air fry for an additional 6 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy.
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Serve: Serve the sesame shrimp toast hot with spicy mayo or your favorite dipping sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Optional: Garnish with extra sesame seeds or finely chopped scallions for an appealing presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Sesame Shrimp Toast Variations
Looking to add a personal touch to your Sesame Shrimp Toast? Let your creativity shine with these delightful alternatives that enhance flavor and cater to different tastes!
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Vegetarian Twist: Substitute shrimp with finely chopped mushrooms or tofu for a satisfying meat-free option. Each bite will be just as flavorful and enjoyable.
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of chili flakes or minced jalapeños to the shrimp filling for an extra heat boost. Your taste buds will thank you for this spicy adventure!
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Crab Delight: Swap the shrimp for crab meat for a luxurious version that elevates the dish. The sweetness of crab pairs beautifully with the sesame flavors.
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Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to the filling for a burst of freshness. This adds a delightful aromatic element to each bite.
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Nutty Crunch: Incorporate crushed peanuts or chopped cashews into the shrimp mixture for an unexpected crunchy texture. It’s a tasty way to play with flavor and texture!
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Whole Grain Base: Use whole grain or sourdough bread instead of white bread for added nutrients and a rustic flavor profile. You’ll enjoy a heartier and more satisfying toast.
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Tangy Dipping Sauce: Whisk in a bit of lime juice to your spicy mayo for a zesty dipping option. The added acidity brightens up the flavors remarkably!
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Cheese Lover’s Touch: A sprinkle of shredded cheese on top before air frying can create a melty crust that’s irresistible—perfect for those who enjoy rich flavors.
Feel free to mix, match, or even invent your own variations! Each alternative is a delicious opportunity to make this dish uniquely yours.
Make Ahead Options
These Sesame Shrimp Toast are a fantastic option for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the shrimp filling up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. Simply mix the shrimp, seasonings, and binders as usual, and keep it covered. When you’re ready to cook, spread the filling onto bread slices and air fry as directed. To keep the bread from getting soggy, assemble the sandwiches just before cooking. You’ll enjoy homemade, crispy sesame shrimp toast whenever the craving hits, with all the deliciousness and none of the last-minute rush!
What to Serve with Sesame Shrimp Toast?
Elevate your meal by complementing the crispy, savory delight of sesame shrimp toast with the perfect side dishes and flavors.
- Pickled Vegetables: These tangy bites provide a refreshing contrast, cutting through the richness of the shrimp toast. The crunch adds a delightful texture to your dining experience.
- Cucumber Salad: This light and crisp salad, dressed with a touch of vinegar, enhances the meal with a burst of freshness. Its subtle flavor balance perfectly offsets the savory shrimp.
- Steamed Broccoli: Simply steamed with a hint of lemon, this vibrant side adds color and a healthy balance, making sure your meal feels fulfilling without being heavy.
- Hot and Sour Soup: The bold flavors and zesty profile of this soup perfectly complement the airy texture of sesame shrimp toast. It’s a classic pairing that warms the soul!
- Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, jasmine rice acts as a subtle vehicle for savoring extra dipping sauce. It’s a soothing backdrop that rounds out the dish beautifully.
- Ginger Tea: For a warm drink, serve ginger tea to cleanse the palate and enhance the savory flavors. Its invigorating kick adds a nice touch to your meal.
How to Store and Freeze Sesame Shrimp Toast
Fridge: Store leftover sesame shrimp toast in an airtight container for up to 1 day. Reheat in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes to regain crispiness.
Freezer: If freezing, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating: To reheat frozen toast, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes until heated through and crispy.
Thawing: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results, ensuring the perfect texture and flavor.
Tips for the Best Sesame Shrimp Toast
- Dry Shrimp: Ensure shrimp are patted dry before mincing to avoid a watery filling that won’t hold together.
- Cook in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer; cook the toast in batches to achieve that beautifully crispy texture.
- Seal Edges Well: Press the edges of the shrimp toast firmly to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.
- Adjust Spiciness: Tailor the heat of the spicy mayo by varying the amount of sriracha; taste as you go to find your perfect balance.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and scallions make a noticeable difference in flavor, enhancing the overall experience of your Sesame Shrimp Toast.
- Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve the toast hot and fresh from the air fryer; this keeps the toast irresistibly crispy!
Sesame Shrimp Toast Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best shrimp for the filling?
Absolutely! Opt for peeled, deveined shrimp for convenience and the best flavor. Look for shrimp that are firm and translucent with a slight sheen; avoid any with dark spots or a strong fishy odor, as these can indicate age.
What’s the best way to store leftover sesame shrimp toast?
Very! Store leftover toast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. To keep that delightful crunch, reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes; this will bring back its crispy texture!
Can I freeze sesame shrimp toast?
Certainly! If you’d like to freeze, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 weeks. For reheating, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for around 8-10 minutes when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
What if my shrimp mixture is too watery?
No worries! If the filling seems watery, ensure you’ve patted your shrimp dry before processing. Adding a little extra corn starch can help absorb moisture and bind the mixture, ensuring it holds together during cooking.
Is this dish safe for people with shellfish allergies?
Absolutely! This recipe contains shrimp, which is a common allergen. If you or your guests have shellfish allergies, I recommend trying a vegetable filling instead, such as finely chopped mushrooms or a mixture of herbs and spices to keep the flavors robust.
What can I use instead of Kewpie mayo for the dipping sauce?
Great question! You can substitute Kewpie mayo with regular mayonnaise, although it won’t have the same depth of flavor. To enhance the taste, consider mixing it with a dash of sesame oil or some yogurt for a creamier texture. Adjust the spice level with sriracha to maintain that zing!
Crispy Sesame Shrimp Toast: A Healthier Air Fryer Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by patting the shrimp dry; this step is essential for achieving the perfect texture. Smash and mince the shrimp into a paste using a knife or food processor until smooth.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp paste with salt, white pepper, sugar, minced garlic, chopped scallions, sesame seeds, egg white, and corn starch. Mix thoroughly until everything is well blended, creating a cohesive filling.
- Trim the crusts off each slice of bread for a clean finish. Spread about ¼ of the shrimp mixture onto each slice, top with another piece of bread, and seal the edges securely using a butter knife.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Once hot, arrange the shrimp sandwiches in a single layer. Air fry for 6 minutes, carefully flip them over, and then air fry for an additional 6 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve the sesame shrimp toast hot with spicy mayo or your favorite dipping sauce.
