Tempera Batter

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: Japanese

A light and crispy tempura batter perfect for frying shrimp, vegetables, or seafood, offering a delicate crunch and subtle flavor that complements various dishes.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup ice water

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir gently; do not beat.
  2. Ensure batter is lumpy in consistency.
  3. Adjust water amount for thicker batter if desired.
  4. Use with Tony's Creole seasoning for added flavor if preferred.
  5. Dip seafood or vegetables into the batter and fry until golden.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter batter, use club soda instead of ice water. If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. To enhance the flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or oregano. Ensure you don't overmix the batter; a few lumps are ideal for a crispy texture. Experiment with using Tony's Creole seasoning for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

This tempura batter is perfect for frying a variety of seafood or vegetables, such as shrimp or zucchini. Serve with a side of tangy dipping sauce or a salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, pair it with rice or explore other vegetarian recipes that complement this dish.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. However, it is best used fresh. If you have fried seafood or vegetables left, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until crispy.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Tempera Batter contains roughly 155 calories, with 3g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (26% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2306mg per serving (100% of the Daily Value).

155 kcal 8% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.9g 6% DV
Total Fat 2g 3% DV
Carbs 32.4g 12% DV
Fiber 0.2g 1% DV
Sugar 0g

Electrolytes

Sodium 2305.6mg 100% DV
Potassium 171.3mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 77.4mg 26% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 18.9mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 0.1mg
Calcium 335.2mg 26% DV
Iron 1.4mg 8% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 this batter for other types of food?

Yes, this tempura batter can be used for a wide range of items including vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms. Even fruits such as banana or apple slices can be delicious when fried. Just ensure the items are cut into even sizes for consistent cooking.

Why is my batter too thick?

If your batter is too thick, gradually add more ice water until you reach the desired consistency. Keep in mind that a slightly thicker batter can result in a heartier coating, but too thick might not fry well. Adjust according to your preference.

What oil is best for frying with this batter?

For frying, it’s best to use oils with high smoke points like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. These oils ensure that the batter becomes crispy without burning. Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding your battered items for optimal results.

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).

Vegetarian recipes → All recipes →