How to Make the Best Japanese Shrimp Tempura

Japanese shrimp tempura is a delightful dish known for its light, crispy coating and tender shrimp. If you want to impress your friends and family with this popular Japanese delicacy, follow this comprehensive guide on how to make the best shrimp tempura at home.

Ingredients Needed

To prepare shrimp tempura, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 1 pound large shrimp (preferably wild-caught)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 cup ice-cold water
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)
  • Tonkatsu sauce or tentsuyu (for dipping)

Preparing the Shrimp

Start by preparing your shrimp:

  1. Peel the shrimp, leaving the tails on for presentation.
  2. Devein the shrimp by making a shallow cut along the back and removing the intestinal tract.
  3. To ensure they fry evenly, make a few shallow cuts along the belly of the shrimp. This prevents curling.

Making the Tempura Batter

Creating the perfect tempura batter is crucial for a crispy texture:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt.
  2. Gradually add the ice-cold water to the dry ingredients and mix gently. Avoid over-mixing; a lumpy batter is ideal for tempura.

Frying the Tempura

Now comes the fun part: frying the shrimp!

  1. In a deep pot or frying pan, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use enough oil to submerge the shrimp.
  2. Dip each shrimp into the batter, allowing the excess to drip off.
  3. Carefully place the battered shrimp in the hot oil, frying them in small batches to avoid overcrowding.
  4. Fry the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Turn them occasionally for even cooking.
  5. Once done, remove the shrimp with a slotted spoon and let them drain on a plate lined with paper towels.

Serving Suggestions

For the best experience, serve your shrimp tempura immediately while hot and crispy:

  • Pair it with tentsuyu, a dipping sauce made from dashi, mirin, and soy sauce.
  • Add a side of grated daikon for a refreshing contrast.
  • Serve alongside a bowl of steamed rice or onto a bed of soba noodles for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Shrimp Tempura

To achieve the best results, consider these tips:

  • Use ice-cold water in the batter for extra crispiness.
  • Choose large shrimp for better texture and more substantial bites.
  • Don't overcrowd the frying pot; this can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy tempura.
  • Experiment with vegetables like sweet potatoes or zucchini alongside shrimp.

With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can master the art of making delicious Japanese shrimp tempura that rivals your favorite restaurant. Enjoy the crispy, flavorful bites and impress your guests with your culinary skills!