Shrimp Toast

1/2 lb fresh prawns

6 slices white sandwich bread

8 water chestnuts

3 T cornstarch

1 tsp salt

2 T sherry

1 egg, lightly beaten

2 stalks scallion, finely chopped

sesame seeds

paprika

Leave bread out on platter 2 days to dry, trim crusts, cut into 4 inch squares. Clean prawns. Mince into pulp-like paste. Chop water chestnuts until fine. Mix with prawns, scallions, salt, sherry, cornstarch, beaten egg. Mix well, spread on bread (make small mound on each piece). Sprinkle sesame seeds and paprika, press lightly so they adhere to mixture.

Heat 4 cups oil in wok. Drop bread, shrimp side down, fry 30 seconds. Turn, fry other side 30 seconds, till golden. drain on paper towels. Serve hot.