Crispy Shrimp Tempura Batter

Prep: 20 min Cuisine: Japanese

Crispy shrimp tempura features tender shrimp coated in light, crunchy batter, perfect for a flavorful appetizer or main dish, appealing to seafood lovers and tempura enthusiasts.

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Ingredients

  • 2 lb raw shrimp
  • 2 eggs, separated
  • 3/4 cup beer
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon ginger
  • flour for dipping

Instructions

  1. Beat egg yolks with beer, oil, soy sauce, and ginger for 2 minutes until well combined.
  2. Just before ready to cook, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form.
  3. Fold the beaten egg whites into the batter gently.
  4. Dip cleaned shrimp into flour for coating.
  5. Dip floured shrimp into the batter, then fry until golden and crispy.

Tips & Substitutions

For an extra crispy texture, consider using ice-cold beer in the batter. You can substitute the beer with sparkling water for a lighter version. If cornstarch is unavailable, use rice flour for a similar result. Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that perfect golden brown finish. This batter is versatile and can also be used for vegetables or fish, making it perfect for various seafood recipes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the crispy shrimp tempura immediately with a side of soy sauce or a ponzu dipping sauce for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with Filipino Style Black Cod or can be enjoyed alongside a fresh salad for a lighter meal. Consider a side of rice or a citrusy slaw to balance the dish.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover shrimp tempura can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the shrimp on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid the microwave as it can make the tempura soggy.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Crispy Shrimp Tempura Batter contains roughly 2274 calories, with 9g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 228g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value) and iron (17% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2100mg per serving (91% of the Daily Value).

2274 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 8.9g 18% DV
Total Fat 227.8g 100% DV
Carbs 53.5g 19% DV
Fiber 1.9g 7% DV
Sugar 0.6g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2099.9mg 91% DV
Potassium 228.1mg 5% DV
Cholesterol 11.3mg 4% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 3mcg
Vitamin C 0mg
Calcium 27.1mg 2% DV
Iron 3mg 17% DV
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten Soy Shellfish

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before coating with flour. Wet shrimp can make the batter soggy, affecting the crispiness of the final dish.

What oil is best for frying tempura?

For frying tempura, use oils with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. These oils will help achieve the desired crispiness without imparting strong flavors.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It's best to prepare the batter just before frying for optimal crispiness. If necessary, you can prepare the egg yolk mixture ahead, but don't fold in the egg whites until you're ready to cook. This will help maintain the batter's lightness.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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