This Japanese Shrimp Tempura Recipe features perfectly golden-brown shrimp that are light and crispy, making it a delightful dish for any occasion. The tempura batter is simple to prepare and results in a deliciously crunchy coating that enhances the flavor of the shrimp.
Serve this Crispy Shrimp Tempura Dish with a flavorful Shrimp Tempura Sauce for dipping, and enjoy it as an appetizer or a main course. This recipe is perfect for those looking for easy fried shrimp recipes that impress.
Visual Appeal of Shrimp Tempura
The sight of perfectly golden-brown shrimp tempura is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Stacked artfully on a traditional Japanese ceramic plate, these crispy delights create an inviting presentation that draws attention.
With the warm lighting and soft-focus bamboo background, the dish not only looks appealing but also evokes a sense of authenticity and tradition. This visual allure is a key aspect of enjoying Japanese cuisine, where presentation is just as important as flavor.
Understanding the Tempura Technique
Tempura is a cooking technique that originated in Japan, characterized by its light and crispy batter. The magic lies in the tempura batter recipe, which combines flour, cornstarch, and ice-cold water to create a delicate coating that enhances the shrimp’s natural flavors.
When executed correctly, the result is a dish that is both crunchy and tender. This method of frying not only preserves the shrimp’s moisture but also allows for a variety of dipping sauces, such as the classic shrimp tempura sauce, to complement the dish.
Ingredients for Perfect Shrimp Tempura
To create this crispy shrimp tempura dish, a few essential shrimp tempura ingredients are required. The main star, of course, is the shrimp, which should be large, peeled, and deveined for optimal texture.
Alongside the shrimp, the tempura batter requires all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and a touch of baking powder. These ingredients come together to form a light batter that is key to achieving that signature crunch. Don’t forget the vegetable oil for frying, which plays a crucial role in the cooking process.
Preparation Steps for Crispy Shrimp Tempura
Preparing shrimp tempura is a straightforward process that can be completed in about 30 minutes. Start by patting the shrimp dry and seasoning them lightly with salt. This step ensures that the shrimp are well-prepared for frying.
Next, mix the flour, cornstarch, and baking powder with ice-cold water to create the tempura batter. The batter should remain slightly lumpy, as this texture contributes to the crispy coating once fried.
Frying Techniques for Optimal Crispiness
Heating the oil to the right temperature is vital for achieving perfectly fried shrimp. Aim for about 350°F (175°C) to ensure that the shrimp cook quickly without absorbing excess oil.
Dip each shrimp into the tempura batter, allowing any excess to drip off before carefully placing them in the hot oil. Frying in small batches prevents overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking. In just 2-3 minutes, the shrimp will transform into a golden-brown treat.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Once the shrimp tempura is cooked, drain them on paper towels to remove any excess oil. Serve immediately alongside a small bowl of tempura sauce for dipping. This combination enhances the flavors and adds an extra layer of enjoyment.
For a complete meal, consider pairing the crispy shrimp tempura with rice or including it as part of a sushi platter. The versatility of this dish makes it a fantastic choice for any occasion, whether as an appetizer or a main course.
Easy Ebi Tempura Recipe
This Shrimp Tempura Recipe yields tender shrimp encased in a light, airy tempura batter. The dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and serves 4 people. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy shrimp in a crispy format, perfect for pairing with rice or as part of a sushi platter.
Ingredients
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup ice-cold water
- Salt to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Tempura sauce for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt.
- Make the Tempura Batter: In a bowl, mix the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and ice-cold water until just combined. The batter should be lumpy.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the Shrimp: Dip each shrimp into the tempura batter, allowing excess to drip off. Carefully place the shrimp in the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the shrimp from the oil and drain on paper towels. Serve immediately with tempura sauce for dipping.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 20g