Teresa's Recipes
Crispy Tempura
Experience the delightful crunch of Crispy Tempura, a beloved Japanese dish that perfectly encapsulates the art of frying. With its light, airy batter enveloping succulent shrimp and vibrant vegetables, this dish is a celebration of texture and flavor. Traditionally enjoyed as a snack or appetizer, tempura has roots dating back to the 16th century when Portuguese missionaries introduced deep-frying techniques to Japan. Serve it with a savory dipping sauce for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Ingredients
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup Cornstarch
- 1 cup Cold water
- 1/2 cup Ice cubes
- for frying Vegetable oil
- to taste Salt
- 2 cups, sliced Assorted vegetables (such as sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and zucchini)
- 1 pound, peeled and deveined Shrimp
- Dipping sauce (Tentsuyu)
- 1/4 cup Soy sauce
- 1/4 cup Mirin
- 1 cup Dashi (Japanese soup stock)
- for garnish (optional) Grated daikon radish
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 4
- Dish Type: Appetizer
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 25g
- Carbs: 35g
- Protein: 15g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Sugar: 2g
Instructions
- Prepare the dipping sauce by combining soy sauce, mirin, and dashi in a small saucepan. Heat gently and set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and cornstarch until well combined.
- Add the cold water and ice cubes to the flour mixture. Stir until just combined; the batter should remain lumpy for the best texture.
- In a deep fryer or large pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Ensure there is enough oil to submerge the tempura.
- Dip the shrimp and sliced vegetables into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Carefully place the battered ingredients into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Once cooked, remove the tempura from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
- Serve the tempura hot with the prepared dipping sauce on the side, and garnish with grated daikon radish if desired.
Tips
- For an extra crispy texture, you can use a mix of all-purpose flour and rice flour.
- Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like green beans, mushrooms, or broccoli.
- Ensure your oil temperature is consistent to prevent soggy tempura; use a thermometer for accuracy.