Table of contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- Step 2: Mix the Shrimp with Other Ingredients
- Step 3: Prepare the Bread
- Step 4: Fry the Shrimp Toast
Introduction
Dim Sum is a traditional Chinese cuisine that consists of small dishes served with tea. One of the most popular dishes is the Minced Shrimp and Garlic Shrimp Toast. This dish is a savory and crunchy appetizer that is perfect for any occasion. In this article, we'll be sharing an easy-to-follow recipe for making this delicious dish at home.
Introduction:
Dim Sum is a popular Chinese cuisine that is enjoyed all over the world. It consists of small bite-sized portions of food that are served in steamer baskets or on small plates. One of the classic dishes in the Dim Sum menu is the Minced Shrimp and Garlic Shrimp Toast. This dish is a perfect example of the delicate flavors and textures that Chinese cuisine is known for.
Shrimp toast is a delicious appetizer that is made from minced shrimp, garlic, and other seasonings that are spread onto slices of bread and then fried until crispy. The result is a savory, crunchy bite that is packed with flavor. It is often served with sweet and sour sauce or chili sauce for dipping.
In this article, we will go through the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to prepare this classic Dim Sum dish. You will learn how to prepare the shrimp, mix it with the other ingredients, and how to fry the perfect shrimp toast. This is a recipe that you will want to keep and make again and again, whether you are hosting a party or just craving a delicious snack.
Ingredients
To make Minced Shrimp and Garlic Shrimp Toast, you will need the following ingredients:
1/2 lb. raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
When it comes to making minced shrimp and garlic shrimp toast, the quality of the shrimp is key. You want to make sure you are using fresh, raw shrimp that have been properly peeled and deveined.
Peeling and deveining shrimp can be a bit time-consuming, but it's an important step to ensure your dish is both safe and delicious. Shrimp that hasn't been properly cleaned can have a gritty texture and an unpleasant flavor. Plus, the vein in shrimp can contain harmful bacteria that could make you sick if not removed.
To peel and devein shrimp, start by removing the head and shell. Then, using a sharp knife, make a shallow cut along the back of the shrimp, exposing the vein. Use the tip of the knife or a toothpick to carefully remove the vein, being careful not to tear the flesh of the shrimp.
Once your shrimp are properly cleaned, you're ready to move on to the next step in making this classic dim sum dish. With fresh, high-quality shrimp as the star ingredient, you're sure to end up with a delicious and satisfying dish that your guests will love.
2 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic is a staple ingredient in Chinese cuisine and adds a delicious flavor to many dishes, including minced shrimp and garlic shrimp toast. For this dim sum classic, two cloves of garlic are minced and mixed with other ingredients to create a flavorful shrimp mixture.
Garlic is known for its health benefits, including boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation. It also adds a unique aroma and taste to dishes, making it a popular ingredient in many cuisines around the world.
To ensure the garlic is minced properly for this recipe, it is important to finely chop the cloves with a sharp knife or use a garlic press. The minced garlic is then mixed with peeled and deveined shrimp, minced ginger, green onions, egg white, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and white pepper.
Once the mixture is prepared, it is spread onto slices of white bread and fried until golden brown. The result is a crispy and flavorful appetizer that is perfect for any occasion.
In conclusion, minced garlic is an essential ingredient in the delicious dim sum classic, minced shrimp and garlic shrimp toast. Its unique flavor and health benefits make it a popular addition to many dishes in Chinese cuisine. So, the next time you're in the kitchen preparing a Chinese meal, be sure to have some garlic on hand for that extra burst of flavor.
1/2 inch piece of ginger, minced
The use of ginger in Chinese cuisine is widespread due to its distinct flavor and health benefits. In this recipe for minced shrimp and garlic shrimp toast, ginger is a key ingredient that adds a subtle yet powerful taste to the dish.
Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and is often used in traditional Chinese medicine. It also aids in digestion and can help alleviate nausea. When minced and added to the shrimp mixture in this recipe, it adds a slightly spicy and fresh taste that complements the other flavors perfectly.
When mincing ginger, it's important to use a sharp knife or a grater to ensure it is finely chopped. The texture of the ginger should be similar to that of the garlic and green onions in the recipe. This ensures that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the shrimp mixture.
Overall, the addition of ginger to this classic dim sum dish elevates it to a new level of flavor and adds a healthy boost to your meal. Don't be afraid to experiment with other dishes and incorporate ginger into your cooking for a tasty and nutritious twist.
1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
Green onions, also known as scallions, are a staple in Chinese cuisine and are used to add flavor and color to many dishes. In this recipe for minced shrimp and garlic shrimp toast, finely chopped green onions are used to enhance the flavor of the shrimp mixture.
Green onions have a mild flavor that is slightly sweet and slightly pungent. They are a great source of vitamin C and vitamin K, making them a healthy addition to any dish. When using green onions in cooking, it is important to chop them finely so that they blend well with the other ingredients.
To prepare the green onions for this recipe, wash them thoroughly and trim off the roots and any wilted leaves. Then, finely chop them using a sharp knife or a pair of kitchen scissors. The chopped green onions can then be added to the shrimp mixture along with the minced garlic, ginger, egg white, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and white pepper.
When the shrimp mixture is spread onto the slices of bread and fried, the green onions will become slightly caramelized and add a delicious flavor and texture to the dish. Overall, green onions are an essential ingredient in this classic dim sum dish and are sure to impress your guests with their unique flavor and health benefits.
1 egg white
Egg whites are an essential ingredient in making minced shrimp and garlic shrimp toast. They act as a binding agent, holding the mixture together and giving it a light, fluffy texture. In addition, egg whites contain proteins that help to set the mixture during frying, resulting in a crispy exterior.
When using egg whites, it is important to beat them until they form stiff peaks. This can be done using an electric mixer or by hand with a whisk. Stiff peaks mean that the egg whites are whipped to the point that they hold their shape when the whisk is lifted out of the bowl. This is important for achieving the desired texture and consistency of the shrimp toast.
It is also important to add the egg whites to the shrimp mixture last, after all the other ingredients have been combined. This ensures that the egg whites are not overworked, which could result in a dense and heavy texture.
In summary, egg whites are a crucial component in making minced shrimp and garlic shrimp toast. They provide structure, lightness, and a crispy exterior. Be sure to whip them to stiff peaks and add them to the mixture last for best results.
1 tbsp. cornstarch
Cornstarch is a common ingredient used in Chinese cuisine and plays an important role in making the perfect Minced Shrimp and Garlic Shrimp Toast. In this recipe, cornstarch is used as a binding agent to hold the mixture of shrimp, garlic, ginger, and green onions together.
Cornstarch is a fine white powder made from the starchy part of the corn kernel. It is often used in Chinese cooking as a thickener for sauces and soups, as well as a coating for fried foods. When mixed with water, it forms a smooth paste that can be added to dishes to thicken them or give them a glossy finish.
In this recipe, cornstarch is used to help bind the shrimp mixture together. Without it, the mixture may fall apart when frying. The cornstarch also helps to create a crispy exterior on the shrimp toast when fried, giving it the perfect texture.
When using cornstarch, it is important to mix it with a liquid before adding it to the dish. In this recipe, the cornstarch is mixed with egg white to create a smooth paste before being added to the shrimp mixture. This ensures that the cornstarch is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Overall, cornstarch is an essential ingredient in Chinese cuisine and plays a crucial role in making the perfect Minced Shrimp and Garlic Shrimp Toast. Its binding and coating properties help to create a delicious and crispy dish that is sure to be a hit at any dim sum table.
1/2 tsp. baking powder
Baking powder is one of the key ingredients in making the perfect minced shrimp and garlic shrimp toast. It is a leavening agent that helps the toast rise and become crispy on the outside while remaining soft and fluffy on the inside. This ingredient is essential in creating the desired texture of the final product.
When mixing the baking powder with the other ingredients, it is important to make sure that it is evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This ensures that the toast will rise evenly and not have any flat spots. It is also important to not over-mix the batter, as this can cause the baking powder to lose its effectiveness.
Another key benefit of using baking powder in this recipe is that it helps the shrimp toast to stay crispy for longer. This is especially important if you plan to serve the toast as part of a dim sum spread, where it may be sitting out for a little while.
In summary, baking powder is a crucial ingredient in making the perfect minced shrimp and garlic shrimp toast. It helps the toast to rise, become crispy, and stay crispy for longer periods of time. By following the recipe instructions carefully and ensuring that the baking powder is evenly distributed in the mixture, you can create a delicious and authentic dim sum classic that is sure to impress your guests.
1/4 tsp. salt
In Chinese cuisine, salt is often used not just to add flavor to a dish, but also to balance out the other flavors present. In this recipe for Minced Shrimp and Garlic Shrimp Toast, the 1/4 tsp. of salt serves both purposes. It enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp and helps to bring out the savory flavors of the garlic and ginger.
When preparing the shrimp mixture, it's important to not oversalt. A little goes a long way, and too much salt can overpower the other flavors in the dish. Additionally, the salt can cause the shrimp mixture to become too watery, which can make it difficult to form into the perfect shape for frying.
When frying the shrimp toast, the salt also helps to create a crispy texture on the outside while keeping the inside moist and flavorful. It's important to use a high smoke point oil, like vegetable oil or canola oil, to ensure that the toast doesn't burn and the salt doesn't become bitter.
Overall, the 1/4 tsp. of salt may seem like a small amount, but it plays a crucial role in the success of this dim sum classic. It enhances the flavors, balances out the sweetness and savory elements, and creates a crispy texture when frying.
1/4 tsp. white pepper
White pepper is a popular ingredient in Chinese cuisine and is often used in dishes that require a mild heat and a pungent flavor. It is a key ingredient in the Minced Shrimp and Garlic Shrimp Toast recipe, adding a subtle kick to the dish.
White pepper is made from the same berries as black pepper, but the outer layer is removed before drying, resulting in a milder and less complex flavor. It is commonly used in Chinese cooking as it blends well with other flavors and does not overpower the dish.
In this recipe, the 1/4 tsp. of white pepper is added to the shrimp mixture, along with garlic, ginger, green onions, egg white, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. The white pepper helps to enhance the flavor of the shrimp and adds a slight spiciness to the dish.
When using white pepper, it is important to use it sparingly as it can easily overpower the other flavors in the dish. It is often used in small amounts in marinades, sauces, and stir-fries to add a subtle heat and depth of flavor.
Overall, the addition of white pepper in this Minced Shrimp and Garlic Shrimp Toast recipe is a crucial element in bringing out the flavors of the dish. It adds a gentle heat and enhances the taste of the shrimp, making it a delicious and classic dim sum dish.
4 slices white bread
The bread used for shrimp toast in dim sum is usually white bread, sliced thinly and trimmed of crusts. The bread acts as a crispy shell that encases the shrimp filling. To prepare the bread, it is important to slice it thinly and evenly, so that it cooks evenly in the oil. Using a serrated knife helps to prevent the bread from getting crushed or compressed.
After trimming off the crusts, the bread can be cut into triangles or rectangles. Some recipes call for the bread to be lightly toasted before adding the shrimp mixture, while others suggest leaving the bread as is. Regardless, it is important to spread a generous layer of the shrimp mixture onto the bread, being careful to distribute it evenly and to the edges.
Once the bread is topped with the shrimp mixture, it is ready to be fried. The oil should be hot but not smoking, and the shrimp toast should be fried until golden brown and crispy on both sides. It is important to drain the fried shrimp toast on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil before serving.
Using white bread for shrimp toast is a classic choice, but some variations include using wheat bread or even sliced baguette. However, the key is to use a bread that will become crispy and crunchy when fried, so that it complements the soft and flavorful shrimp filling.
Oil for frying
Oil for frying is an essential ingredient when making minced shrimp and garlic shrimp toast. It is important to use a neutral oil with a high smoking point, such as vegetable or canola oil, to ensure that the toast comes out crispy and golden brown.
To fry the shrimp toast, heat the oil in a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot until it reaches 350°F. It is important to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the frying process to ensure that the toast cooks evenly and doesn't absorb too much oil.
Once the oil is hot, carefully lower the shrimp toast into the oil using a slotted spoon. Fry the toast for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it is golden brown and crispy. Be sure not to overcrowd the fryer or pot, as this can cause the temperature of the oil to drop and result in soggy shrimp toast.
Once the shrimp toast is cooked, remove it from the oil and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain off any excess oil. Serve the toast hot and crispy, garnished with chopped green onions or cilantro.
In conclusion, using the right type of oil and maintaining a consistent frying temperature is crucial when making minced shrimp and garlic shrimp toast. By following these simple steps, you can create a delicious and authentic dim sum classic that is sure to impress your friends and family.
Instructions
Here's how to make Minced Shrimp and Garlic Shrimp Toast:
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
When making minced shrimp and garlic shrimp toast, it's important to start with fresh, high-quality shrimp. Begin by peeling and deveining 1/2 pound of raw shrimp. This can be a time-consuming task, but it's crucial for achieving the right texture in the final dish.
Once the shrimp are peeled and deveined, give them a quick rinse under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Then, mince the shrimp into small pieces using a sharp knife or a food processor. You want the shrimp to be finely chopped, but not pureed or turned into a paste.
In addition to the shrimp, you'll also need to mince 2 cloves of garlic and a 1/2-inch piece of ginger. These aromatics will add a delicious depth of flavor to the shrimp toast.
Finally, finely chop 1/4 cup of green onions. The green onions add a fresh, oniony flavor and a pop of color to the dish.
Once all of your ingredients are prepped, you're ready to move on to the next step: mixing the shrimp with the other ingredients.
Step 2: Mix the Shrimp with Other Ingredients
In this step, we will mix the minced shrimp with the other ingredients to create the flavorful filling for our shrimp toast. In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, ginger, and green onions with the shrimp. Add the egg white, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and white pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
It's important to ensure that the shrimp is minced finely so that it cooks evenly and the filling is smooth. The egg white and cornstarch act as binding agents to hold the mixture together, while the baking powder helps to create a light and fluffy texture.
The combination of garlic, ginger, and green onions provides a burst of flavor to the shrimp filling. These aromatic ingredients are commonly used in Chinese cooking for their unique taste and health benefits.
Once the mixture is well combined, it's time to move on to the next step and prepare the bread.
Step 3: Prepare the Bread
Step 3: Prepare the Bread
Now that the shrimp mixture is ready, it's time to prepare the bread. White bread is the traditional choice for shrimp toast, but you can use any type of bread you prefer.
First, remove the crusts from the bread slices. You can use a knife or a cookie cutter to do this. Then, cut each slice into four equal pieces to make them the perfect size for bite-sized appetizers.
Next, take a spoonful of the shrimp mixture and spread it evenly onto each piece of bread. Make sure to spread it all the way to the edges of the bread so that every bite is filled with delicious shrimp flavor.
Once the shrimp mixture is evenly spread, gently press each piece of bread into a plate of sesame seeds. The sesame seeds will stick to the shrimp mixture and add a delicious crunch to the finished product.
You can also add a sprinkle of chopped green onions or cilantro on top of the sesame seeds for some extra flavor and color.
Now that the bread is prepared, it's time to move on to the final step: frying the shrimp toast to golden perfection.
Step 4: Fry the Shrimp Toast
Step 4: Fry the Shrimp Toast
Once the shrimp and bread are prepared, it's time to fry the shrimp toast. In a deep frying pan or wok, heat up enough oil to cover the toast. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
Gently add the toast to the hot oil, shrimp side down. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until the shrimp turns pink and the bread is golden brown. Using a slotted spoon, carefully flip the toast over to fry the other side for another 2-3 minutes or until both sides are golden brown.
Once done, remove the shrimp toast from the oil and place them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve immediately while hot with your favorite dipping sauce such as sweet chili sauce or soy sauce.
It's important to note that frying the shrimp toast can be a bit tricky, as the bread can easily burn or become too oily if the oil temperature is not correct. Make sure to keep a close eye on the toast while frying and adjust the heat as needed. With a little practice, you'll be able to achieve perfectly crispy and delicious shrimp toast every time.
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
First, finely chop the shrimp until it resembles a paste. Then, mix the shrimp with minced garlic, minced ginger, finely chopped green onions, egg white, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and white pepper. Set aside.
Preparing the shrimp is the first step in making this delicious dim sum classic, minced shrimp and garlic shrimp toast. To get started, you will need to have half a pound of raw shrimp that has already been peeled and deveined.
First, rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Then, finely chop the shrimp into small pieces using a sharp knife. You can also use a food processor to mince the shrimp, but be careful not to over-process them as this can result in a mushy texture.
Once the shrimp is minced, transfer it to a mixing bowl and add in two cloves of minced garlic, half an inch of minced ginger, and a quarter cup of finely chopped green onions. Mix these ingredients together until they are well-combined.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together one egg white, one tablespoon of cornstarch, half a teaspoon of baking powder, a quarter teaspoon of salt, and a quarter teaspoon of white pepper. Pour this mixture over the minced shrimp and mix until everything is well-coated.
Preparing the shrimp is a crucial step in making this dish as it determines the texture and flavor of the final product. Take your time and ensure that the shrimp is properly minced and mixed with the other ingredients for a delicious and satisfying result.
Step 2: Mix the Shrimp with Other Ingredients
Take four slices of white bread and cut off the crusts. Then, cut each slice into four equal pieces. Spread the shrimp mixture on each piece of bread, making sure it's evenly distributed.
Step 2: Mix the Shrimp with Other Ingredients
After you have prepared the shrimp, it's now time to mix it with the other ingredients to create the flavorful filling for your shrimp toast.
In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, minced ginger, finely chopped green onions, egg white, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, and white pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined.
Then, add the prepared shrimp to the mixture and mix until the shrimp is coated evenly with the other ingredients. Be careful not to overmix the shrimp mixture as it can become tough and rubbery.
This mixture is what gives the shrimp toast its signature flavor and texture. The addition of garlic, ginger, and green onions adds a savory and aromatic flavor to the shrimp. The egg white and cornstarch help bind the mixture together and create a crispy texture when fried.
Make sure to taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. Add more salt or white pepper if needed.
Once the mixture is ready, it's time to move on to the next step of the recipe, which is preparing the bread.
Step 3: Prepare the Bread
Heat oil in a wok or deep frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the shrimp toast in the oil, shrimp side down. Fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Flip the toast over and fry the other side until golden brown. Remove from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 3: Prepare the Bread
Now that the shrimp mixture is ready, it's time to prepare the bread for the shrimp toast. Take the white bread slices and trim off the crusts. Cut each slice diagonally into two triangles.
Next, spread the shrimp mixture evenly onto each triangle of bread. Make sure that the mixture covers the bread completely and reaches the edges. This will ensure that the toast cooks evenly and has a nice, crispy texture.
It's important to note that the bread should be dry and not too soft, as this will make it difficult to fry. You can leave the bread out for a few hours or even overnight to ensure that it's dry enough. Alternatively, you can lightly toast the bread in the oven before spreading the shrimp mixture on top.
Once the bread is sufficiently prepared and the shrimp mixture is evenly spread, it's time to move on to the final step: frying the shrimp toast.
Step 4: Fry the Shrimp Toast
Serve the Minced Shrimp and Garlic Shrimp Toast hot with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!
Step 4: Fry the Shrimp Toast
Once the shrimp toasts are assembled, it's time to fry them until they're golden brown and crispy. Heat oil in a wok or deep frying pan over medium-high heat to 350°F. To check the temperature of the oil, dip a corner of the bread into the oil. If it sizzles and turns golden brown within a few seconds, the oil is ready.
Carefully add the shrimp toasts to the hot oil, shrimp side down. Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, then flip and fry for an additional 1-2 minutes until both sides are crispy and golden. Use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp toasts from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate.
It's important to not overcrowd the wok or frying pan as this will lower the temperature of the oil and result in greasy shrimp toasts. Fry in batches if necessary.
Serve the shrimp toasts hot with sweet chili sauce or soy sauce for dipping. They make a great appetizer for a dim sum feast or an impressive addition to any party spread. Enjoy the crispy, savory flavor of this classic Chinese dish!
Comments