Easy Tempura
Tempura tofu and vegetables offer a crispy, savory bite with a delightful combination of mild tofu, crunchy vegetables, and flavorful surimi. This easy-to-make dish suits both casual gatherings and weeknight dinners, providing a satisfying vegetarian option with a light, crispy coating and balanced flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the vegetables into smaller pieces.
- Mash the drained tofu and mix in surimi.
- Add the egg and chopped vegetables to the mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Drop spoonfuls of the batter into a heated frying pan with vegetable oil at medium heat.
- Cook both sides until each piece is lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier texture, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying; a drop of batter should sizzle immediately. If you want a gluten-free option, substitute regular soy sauce with tamari. You can also use a mix of other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini if chop sui isn't available. If you'd like a protein boost, consider adding cooked shrimp or chicken for more flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your tempura with a side of soy sauce or a dipping sauce made from equal parts soy sauce and rice vinegar. This dish pairs beautifully with Japanese Fruitcake Pie for a delightful dessert. Consider serving it alongside a light salad or steamed rice to create a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispness. Avoid microwaving as it may make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Tempura contains roughly 438 calories, with 3g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (49% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2175mg per serving (95% of the Daily Value).
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 other proteins instead of surimi?
Absolutely! You can substitute surimi with cooked shrimp, fish fillets, or even chicken. Just ensure that the protein is pre-cooked and chopped into small pieces for even mixing and cooking.
How can I make the batter lighter?
For a lighter batter, try adding a bit of sparkling water or club soda to the mixture. This will create a fluffier texture when fried. You can also experiment with using less egg or replacing it with a vegan alternative like aquafaba.
What can I serve with tempura?
Tempura is delightful on its own, but you can enhance your meal by serving it with steamed rice, a fresh salad, or a bowl of miso soup. Pairing it with a light dipping sauce will elevate the flavors even further.
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).