There’s a certain joy that comes from preparing something unique in the kitchen, and for me, that delight is found in these sesame prawn toasts with chilli oil. Picture this: a quiet evening at home, and the tantalizing aroma of fresh garlic mingling with the rich scent of sesame oil fills the air. As I dive into making these crispy delights, I am reminded of the countless evenings spent sharing laughter and stories over delectable bites with family and friends.
What started as a search for an unforgettable appetizer transformed into a beloved staple in my home. These prawn toasts are not just a feast for the taste buds but also a showcase of how simple ingredients can create something truly extraordinary. Perfectly golden and crunchy, each bite is loaded with vibrant flavors, and paired with a dollop of spicy chilli oil, they become an irresistible treat.
If you’re looking to elevate your culinary repertoire and impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe is a must-try. Let’s dive into the delightful world of sesame prawn toasts!
Why are sesame prawn toasts with chilli oil irresistible?
Crispy Texture: The golden crunch of these prawn toasts offers a delightful bite that will leave you wanting more.
Bursting with Flavor: A harmonious blend of savory prawns, garlic, and aromatic sesame oil creates an explosion of taste.
Easy Preparation: With simple steps, you’ll prepare a restaurant-quality appetizer right at home.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for gatherings, these toasts will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Perfect Pairing: The spicy chilli oil adds a zesty kick, elevating each toast to new heights!
Quick Cooking: You’ll be enjoying these scrumptious bites in no time, making them a fantastic choice for busy evenings.
Sesame Prawn Toasts Ingredients
For the Prawn Mixture
• Green tiger prawns – 250g, raw, peeled, and deveined, they provide the main flavor in these sesame prawn toasts.
• Egg whites – 2, help bind the prawn mixture together while adding moisture and richness.
• Sesame oil – 2 teaspoons, it enhances the flavor with a nutty richness that’s hard to resist.
• Garlic – 1 clove, crushed, for a fragrant base that complements the prawns beautifully.
• Green onion (scallion) – 1, thinly sliced, adds a fresh crunch and subtle sharpness.
• Oyster sauce – 1 tablespoon, providing a savory depth that really elevates the umami notes.
• Granulated sugar – 1 teaspoon, balances the flavors and enhances the natural sweetness of the prawns.
For Assembly
• White bread – 16 slices, the sturdy base for our toasts, providing crunch when fried.
• White sesame seeds – 2 tablespoons, sprinkled on top for extra texture and nutty flavor.
For Frying
• Vegetable oil – for deep-frying, essential for achieving that golden, crispy exterior.
For Serving
• Chilli oil – to serve, it adds a spicy kick that takes these sesame prawn toasts to another level!
How to Make Sesame Prawn Toasts with Chilli Oil
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Process the Mixture: Place the prawns, 1 egg white, sesame oil, garlic, onion, oyster sauce, and sugar in a small food processor. Pulse until finely chopped and well combined, creating a flavorful paste.
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Prepare the Bread: Lay out half the bread slices on a clean surface. Spoon heaped tablespoons of the prawn mixture into the center of each slice, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
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Seal the Sandwiches: Cover with the remaining bread slices to create sandwiches. Press the edges down firmly to seal, then trim the crusts off and discard for a neat appearance.
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Re-seal Edges: Pinch the edges of each sandwich tightly to ensure no filling escapes while frying. This step is key to keeping all that delicious flavor in!
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Brush with Egg White: Take the remaining egg white, whisk it lightly in a small bowl, and use it to brush the top of each sandwich. Then, generously sprinkle with sesame seeds for that beautiful crunch.
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Heat the Oil: Fill a large saucepan halfway with vegetable oil and heat it over medium until it reaches 180°C (350°F) – perfect for deep frying those toasts to golden perfection.
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Fry the Toasts: Carefully add the prawn toasts in batches to the hot oil. Fry for about 3 minutes on each side or until they achieve a lovely golden brown color.
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Drain and Serve: Use a slotted spoon to remove the toasts from the oil, then drain them on paper towels. Slice into triangles, serve hot with a side of spicy chilli oil for dipping.
Optional: Garnish with extra green onions for a fresh touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These sesame prawn toasts with chilli oil are ideal for busy weeknights, allowing you to prep ahead and save precious time. You can prepare the prawn mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply pulse the prawns with egg white, sesame oil, and other ingredients, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can assemble the sandwiches up to 3 days ahead, but remember to wrap them tightly to prevent the bread from drying out. When you’re ready to cook, brush with egg white, sprinkle sesame seeds, and fry as directed for freshly crisp toasts. This way, you’ll have delicious only a few minutes away at any time!
Expert Tips for Sesame Prawn Toasts
• Fresh Prawns Matter: Always use the freshest raw tiger prawns for the best flavor and texture in your sesame prawn toasts.
• Seal with Care: Ensure you pinch the edges of the sandwiches tightly; this prevents the flavorful filling from leaking out during frying.
• Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature closely; frying at 180°C (350°F) ensures a perfectly golden and crispy result.
• Batch Frying: Fry in small batches to maintain the oil temperature, which helps achieve a uniform crispiness with every toast.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy these prawn toasts while hot for the best taste and texture, paired with a generous serving of chilli oil for a spicy kick.
How to Store and Freeze Sesame Prawn Toasts
Fridge: Store leftover sesame prawn toasts in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unbattered prawn sandwiches before frying. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat frozen prawn toasts, fry them directly from frozen until golden brown, usually taking about 4-5 minutes on each side.
Avoid Dampness: Ensure the toasts are completely cool before wrapping, as moisture can lead to sogginess.
What to Serve with Prawn Toasts?
Creating a complete meal with these flavorful delights opens up a world of culinary possibilities.
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Crispy Fried Rice: This savory side brings in a textural contrast with fluffy grains and vibrant vegetables, enhancing your dining experience.
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Cucumber Salad: A refreshing crunch from the cool cucumbers, drizzled with a tangy sesame dressing, balances out the richness of the prawn toasts.
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Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce: This sauce adds a delightful sweetness and spice, perfect for dipping and elevating your flavor journey.
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Steamed Broccoli: Bright green florets offer a nutritious companion, bringing a slight bitterness that beautifully complements the savory prawns.
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Garlic Noodles: These buttery, garlicky noodles not only add an umami punch but also provide a satisfying silkiness that pairs wonderfully.
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Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc can cleanse your palate, allowing each bite of sesame prawn toasts with chili oil to shine brightly.
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Mango Sorbet: For dessert, this light and fruity option is the perfect end to your meal, providing a refreshing contrast to the savory richness of the toasts.
Sesame Prawn Toasts with Chilli Oil Variations
Customize your sesame prawn toasts with these delicious twists and substitutions that will captivate your taste buds!
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Spicy Kick: Add finely chopped red chili or sriracha to the prawn mixture for an extra heat burst. This not only elevates the flavor but gives your toasts an exciting twist.
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Herb Infusion: Toss in freshly chopped cilantro or basil to the prawn mixture for a fragrant twist. These herbs add freshness and elevate the overall taste profile beautifully.
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Gluten-Free: Swap the white bread for gluten-free bread slices to make this dish suitable for gluten-free diets. The crispy texture will still be on point!
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Creamy Addition: Mix in a tablespoon of cream cheese or crab meat for a rich, decadent twist. The creaminess melds with the prawn mixture for an unforgettable flavor experience.
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Vegetarian Option: Substitute the prawns with mashed avocado or blended chickpeas for a vegetarian delight. Season them similarly to create a delectable alternative.
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Nutty Flavor: Replace sesame oil with peanut oil for a different nutty aroma. This small change can bring out new dimensional flavors in your prawn toasts.
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Sweet and Savory: Add a teaspoon of honey or brown sugar into the prawn mix for a sweeter touch that contrasts beautifully with the savory elements.
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Asian Twist: Incorporate finely chopped water chestnuts in the prawn mixture for added crunch, enhancing the texture and adding a delightful surprise in every bite.
Sesame Prawn Toasts with Chilli Oil Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting prawns?
Absolutely! When selecting green tiger prawns, look for those that are plump with a translucent and shiny exterior. Avoid any that smell fishy or have dark spots, as they may be past their prime. Fresh prawns should be firm to the touch and not slimy.
How should I store leftover prawn toasts?
Very important! Store leftover sesame prawn toasts in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, I recommend reheating them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for a few minutes instead of microwaving.
Can I freeze sesame prawn toasts?
You can! For optimal results, freeze the assembled but unbattered prawn sandwiches. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet for about an hour, then transfer to a freezer bag. They will last for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, fry them directly from frozen, taking about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
What if my prawn mixture is too wet?
No worries! If your prawn mixture feels too wet after processing, you can add a bit of cornstarch or additional white sesame seeds to help bind it. Start with a tablespoon at a time, mixing until you achieve a thicker, spreadable consistency that will adhere well to the bread.
Can I make prawn toasts vegetarian or allergen-friendly?
Yes, you can definitely get creative! For a vegetarian alternative, you can substitute the prawns with finely chopped mushrooms or tofu mixed with similar seasonings. If you’re concerned about allergens, ensure that your bread and sauces are free from gluten or dairy, and use vegetable oil suited to your health needs.
Can pets enjoy leftover prawn toasts?
It’s best not to share these prawn toasts with pets, as foods like garlic and onion can be harmful to them. Instead, consider cooking a simple, plain piece of shrimp (without any seasoning or additives) as a special treat for your furry friends!
Crispy Sesame Prawn Toasts with Chilli Oil You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Process the Mixture: Place the prawns, 1 egg white, sesame oil, garlic, onion, oyster sauce, and sugar in a small food processor. Pulse until finely chopped and well combined.
- Prepare the Bread: Lay out half the bread slices and spoon heaped tablespoons of the prawn mixture into the center of each slice.
- Seal the Sandwiches: Cover with the remaining bread slices to create sandwiches. Press the edges down firmly, trim crusts.
- Re-seal Edges: Pinch the edges tightly to ensure no filling escapes during frying.
- Brush with Egg White: Whisk remaining egg white and brush the top of each sandwich, sprinkle with sesame seeds.
- Heat the Oil: Fill a large saucepan halfway with vegetable oil and heat to 180°C (350°F).
- Fry the Toasts: Add prawn toasts in batches to the hot oil, fry for about 3 minutes on each side.
- Drain and Serve: Use a slotted spoon to remove toasts from the oil, drain on paper towels, slice into triangles, serve hot with chilli oil.