Crispy Fried Milk (Cuì Pí Xiān Nǎi)

A unique and creative dish that showcases technical skill. A thick custard is made from milk, sugar, starch, and sometimes egg whites or mashed shrimp. This custard is chilled until firm, then cut into blocks. These blocks are coated in a batter and breadcrumbs and deep-fried until the exterior is golden brown and very crispy, while the inside becomes hot, soft, and almost liquid-creamy. The contrast between the hot, crispy shell and the sweet, warm, soft interior is the entire appeal of the dish. It requires precise temperature control to fry the outside without melting the inner custard. It can be a savory or sweet dish.