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Shrimp Tempura

Crispy Shrimp Tempura: Your New Favorite Appetizer at Home

Delight in this Crispy Shrimp Tempura, a vibrant Japanese appetizer that is easy to make and perfect for impressing guests.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Batter
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Cornstarch Omit for a denser version.
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Powder Essential for a light batter.
  • 1 piece Egg Substitute with a flax egg for a vegan option.
  • 3/4 cup Cold Water Ensure it's cold for fluffiness.
For the Shrimp
  • 1 pound Tail-On Extra Jumbo Shrimp Use fresh or thawed, peeled, and deveined shrimp.
For Frying
  • 2 inches Vegetable Oil Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point.
For Serving
  • 1 cup Tempura Dipping Sauce Alternatives like soy sauce or ponzu can be enjoyed.
  • 1/2 cup Yum Yum Sauce Optional creamy dipping option.

Equipment

  • Deep-sided skillet or large pot
  • Kitchen thermometer
  • shallow bowl
  • tongs

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by heating about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep-sided skillet or large pot over medium-high heat. Use a kitchen thermometer to monitor the temperature, aiming for 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a shallow bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Whisk together until evenly mixed, then add in 1 egg and 3/4 cup of cold water. Mix gently until you achieve a smooth, slightly lumpy batter.
  3. Take your tail-on extra jumbo shrimp and carefully make 2-3 horizontal slits on their underside using a sharp knife to prevent curling during frying.
  4. Holding each prepared shrimp by the tail, gently coat it in the batter, allowing excess to drip off before placing aside on a plate.
  5. Lower a few battered shrimp into the hot oil, taking care not to overcrowd. Fry for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
  6. Remove shrimp from oil using tongs, placing them on a baking rack or paper towels to drain excess oil, and serve hot with dipping sauces.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingsCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 15gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gCalcium: 10mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For maximum crunchiness, enjoy shrimp tempura right after frying. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.

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