How to Make Shrimp Toast Using Chicken Mince
When it comes to replicating classic dishes made with seafood, especially delicious treats like shrimp toast, sometimes it's best to get creative. Mike Leslie's approach of simply making some toast and calling it something is certainly worth considering. However, if you're keen to stick to the spirit of the original dish, substituting shrimp with chicken mince can be a fun and flavorful way to enjoy this breakfast or brunch favorite. This guide will walk you through the process, complete with the recipe and tips for success.
Why Chicken Mince?
The key to successfully substituting shrimp in any dish lies in creating a flavor profile that emulates the natural taste and texture of the seafood. Chicken mince is an excellent ingredient for this task because it:
Brightens with strong seasonings and spices Secures a similar umami-rich quality Can be breaded and fried to achieve a similar crusty textureMoreover, using chicken mince, especially when spiced and mixed with fresh ingredients, can bring a unique and exciting twist to the traditional shrimp toast.
The Ingredients You'll Need
Here's a list of the ingredients for your homemade shrimp toast using chicken mince:
450g chicken mince 1 medium egg A large handful of fresh coriander (cilantro) 1 tsp chilli flakes 1 tsp ground coriander 1 clove of garlic 7 slices of white bread, crusts still on 75g white sesame seeds 25g black sesame seeds 300ml vegetable oil to shallow-frySteps to Make Chicken Mince Toast
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mince
In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken mince, egg, coriander, chilli flakes, ground coriander, and minced garlic. Use your hands or a fork to mix them together until well combined. This mixture should be seasoned to taste, ensuring it's nicely spiced and fragrant with the fresh herbs and spices.
Step 2: Shape the Chicken Mince
Dip each piece of bread into the mixture, ensuring that the entire surface is covered. Tuck the edges of the bread under to seal it, making sure no gaps are left where raw mince might escape. You can also use a spoon to shape the mince into small, bite-sized pieces or form it into flat cakes. Let the shaped pieces sit for a few minutes to help the mince stick to the bread.
Step 3: Breading and Shallow-Frying
Once your chicken mince is shaped, begin breading the pieces. Roll each piece in white sesame seeds, pressing gently to adhere the seeds firmly. Repeat the process with the black sesame seeds, ensuring a good coating. If you prefer, you can also mix the white and black sesame seeds together before coating the breaded chicken mince.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Carefully add the sesame-seeded chicken mince pieces, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for 3-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. The sesame seeds will add a delightful crunch and rich flavor, complementing the savory chicken mince filling.
Step 4: Serving
Your homemade shrimp toast using chicken mince is now ready to serve! These breaded and fried chicken mince pieces can be served hot as a breakfast or brunch dish. They are a great option for those who enjoy the taste and texture of shrimp toast but might want to try something different. You can also serve them with dipping sauces like chili garlic sauce, soy sauce, or even a simple tomato and lemon aioli.
Enjoy the Flexibility of Substitution
While substituting shrimp with chicken mince might seem unconventional at first, it opens up a world of culinary possibilities. This dish can be a wonderful way to indulge in a taste of the East, where seafood and meat often swap places depending on regional preferences and cultural practices.
Remember, when food substitution becomes an obsession, it's important to explore new ingredients and techniques that bring joy and satisfaction to your cooking. This dish not only mentors the art of switching ingredients but also highlights the versatility of chicken mince as a delicious and satisfying substitute for shrimp in a variety of dishes.