Make crispy sesame prawn toast at home with this easy Chinese restaurant-style recipe. Fresh prawns are blended into a smooth paste with garlic, ginger, and spring onions, then spread on white bread, coated with sesame seeds, and deep-fried until golden. Perfect for starters, party platters, or as a snack with sweet chilli dipping sauce. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor.

Sesame prawn toast is a popular Chinese appetizer made with a savory prawn paste spread over white bread, coated in sesame seeds, and fried until crispy and golden. Crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, this dish is ideal for entertaining or serving as a starter with a dipping sauce.

Ingredients

For the Toast

200 g (7 oz) raw prawns (deveined and peeled)
1 tsp minced ginger
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 egg white
2 spring onions (scallions), chopped
1 tsp light soy sauce
¼ tsp white pepper
¼ tsp salt
3 slices thick-cut white bread
6 tbsp sesame seeds
Vegetable oil for deep frying (approximately 1 litre)

To Serve

1 tbsp chopped fresh coriander (optional)
2 tbsp sweet chilli dipping sauce

Instructions

1. Prepare the Prawn Paste

Place the prawns, ginger, garlic, egg white, spring onions, soy sauce, white pepper, and salt in a mini food processor. Blitz until a smooth paste forms.

2. Cut the Bread

Cut each slice of bread diagonally into 4 triangles, giving you 12 pieces in total. No need to remove the crusts.

3. Assemble

Spread about 1 tablespoon of the prawn paste evenly over one side of each bread triangle. Press the paste side into a plate of sesame seeds to create a generous coating. Set aside.

4. Fry the Toast

Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or deep frying pan over high heat. To test if it’s ready, drop in a small piece of bread—it should float and sizzle immediately.

Working in batches, place the triangles paste-side down into the oil. Fry for 1–2 minutes, flip, then cook for another 30–60 seconds until the bread is golden and the prawns are cooked through.

Transfer the toast to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Repeat with remaining pieces.

5. Serve

Sprinkle with chopped coriander if using, and serve hot with sweet chilli dipping sauce.

Tips

Use fresh raw prawns for the best flavor and texture.
Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying—this helps prevent greasy toast.
Do not overcrowd the pan; fry in batches for even cooking.
If using frozen prawns, defrost and pat them dry thoroughly before blending.

Variations and Substitutions

Bread: Use crustless sandwich bread or brioche for a softer bite.
Prawns: Substitute with a mix of prawn and white fish for a milder flavor.
Baking Option: Bake in the oven at 200°C (390°F) for 10–12 minutes as a lighter alternative.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the paste.

FAQs

Can I make prawn toast ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the toast and refrigerate uncooked for up to 4 hours. Fry just before serving.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

Can I air-fry this recipe?
Yes. Spray with oil and cook in an air fryer at 200°C (390°F) for 6–8 minutes until golden and crisp.

Serving Suggestions

Serve as part of a Chinese-style appetizer platter with spring rolls and dumplings.
Pair with a fresh cucumber salad or pickled vegetables.
Ideal for parties, buffet tables, or as a starter before an Asian main course.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crisp, golden texture and rich prawn flavor.
Simple ingredients and fast preparation.
Perfect for both casual snacking and special occasions.
A homemade take on a classic takeaway favorite.