Putian-style Toast with Shrimp Paste

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we have replaced the traditional Maltese ingredients with Putian-specific flavors. Instead of using olive oil and tomatoes, we have incorporated shrimp paste, a staple ingredient in Putian cuisine. This change infuses the dish with the distinct umami taste that is characteristic of Putian dishes. Additionally, we have modified the cooking technique to toast the bread until crispy, adding a delightful crunch to the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Ħobż biż-żejt, so you can check it out.

• 4 slices of white bread 4 slices of white bread
• 4 tablespoons Putian shrimp paste 4 tablespoons Putian shrimp paste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Fresh herbs (such as cilantro or parsley), for garnish Fresh herbs (such as cilantro or parsley), for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 28g, 2g
• Protein: 9g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   In a small bowl, mix the shrimp paste and minced garlic until well combined.
3. 3.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
4. 4.
   Toast the bread slices in the pan until golden and crispy on both sides.
5. 5.
   Remove the toasted bread from the pan and let it cool slightly.
6. 6.
   Spread a generous amount of the shrimp paste mixture onto each slice of toast.
7. 7.
   Place the shrimp paste-covered toasts on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 5 minutes, or until the shrimp paste is heated through.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh herbs.
9. 9.
   Serve the Putian-style Toast with Shrimp Paste warm as an appetizer or snack.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Shrimp paste — Make sure to use authentic Putian shrimp paste for the best flavor. Adjust the amount according to your taste preference, as the paste can be quite strong in flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of flavor, you can add a dash of soy sauce or a squeeze of lime juice to the shrimp paste mixture.
• If you prefer a spicier version, you can add a small amount of chili paste or chili flakes to the shrimp paste mixture.
• Experiment with different types of bread, such as baguette or ciabatta, to add variety to the dish.
• Serve the Putian-style Toast with Shrimp Paste alongside a refreshing cucumber salad for a balanced meal.
• If you're unable to find Putian shrimp paste, you can substitute it with other fermented shrimp pastes commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisines.

Serving advice

Serve the Putian-style Toast with Shrimp Paste warm as an appetizer or snack. It pairs well with a cup of hot tea or a refreshing glass of iced green tea.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Putian-style Toast with Shrimp Paste on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs for an elegant touch. Consider serving it on a wooden board or a traditional Putian-style ceramic plate to enhance the presentation.