How to Make a Japanese Salad with Tempura

Japanese cuisine is known for its harmonious flavors and fresh ingredients. One delightful dish that embodies these qualities is a Japanese salad with tempura. This refreshing salad pairs crisp vegetables and light dressings with crispy tempura, creating a perfect balance of textures and tastes.

In this article, we will guide you through the steps to make a delicious Japanese salad with tempura. With fresh ingredients and simple techniques, you can easily create a beautiful dish that showcases the essence of Japanese culinary traditions.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Japanese salad with tempura:

  • 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as shiso, mizuna, and romaine)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, julienned
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 1/4 cup radishes, thinly sliced
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 2 cups assorted vegetables for tempura (e.g., sweet potato, zucchini, bell pepper, and green beans)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup ice-cold water
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Preparation of Tempura

To make the crispy tempura, follow these steps:

  1. Start by preparing the vegetables you want to use for tempura. Slice them into thin, even pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the flour with ice-cold water. The cold water helps create a light, crispy batter; be careful not to overmix. It’s okay if there are a few lumps.
  3. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. You need enough oil for deep frying, about 2-3 inches deep.
  4. Once the oil is hot (around 350°F or 175°C), dip the vegetable pieces into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off, then carefully place them in the oil.
  5. Fry the vegetables in batches so you don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook until they turn golden brown, then remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Assembling the Salad

Once your tempura is ready, it’s time to assemble your salad:

  1. In a large serving bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, grated carrot, radishes, and avocado.
  2. Toss the salad gently to mix the ingredients without crushing the delicate greens.
  3. Top the salad with the freshly cooked tempura. You can arrange it beautifully on top or serve it on the side for a more rustic presentation.

Dressing Options

To enhance the flavors of your Japanese salad, consider using traditional Japanese dressings:

  • Sesame dressing: A blend of sesame oil, soy sauce, vinegar, and sesame seeds provides a rich, nutty flavor.
  • Rice vinegar dressing: A simple mixture of rice vinegar, soy sauce, a touch of sugar, and sesame oil is light and tangy.
  • Wafu dressing: Made from vegetable oil, soy sauce, vinegar, and mustard, this dressing is a flavorful complement to the fresh vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Japanese salad with tempura immediately for the best texture. This dish works well as a starter, side dish, or even a light main course.

Enjoy your homemade Japanese salad with tempura, and savor the delightful combination of fresh ingredients and crispy delights that truly represent the essence of Japanese cuisine!