Tempura (Shrimp Batter)
Crispy, golden shrimp tempura with a light batter, perfect for dipping. This delicate dish offers a satisfying crunch and is ideal for seafood lovers and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat eggs and cold water until frothy.
- Add flour and salt to the mixture and beat until combined.
- Set the batter in a bowl of ice to keep it cold while frying the shrimp.
- Dry the shrimp thoroughly before dipping into the batter.
- Fry the battered shrimp in hot oil until golden and crispy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter tempura batter, consider adding a teaspoon of baking powder to the flour mix. This helps create a crispier texture. Make sure the water is as cold as possible, even using ice water, to ensure the batter stays light when frying. If you want to experiment, you can substitute the shrimp with vegetables for a vegetarian version.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your tempura shrimp hot, accompanied by a dipping sauce like soy sauce or tempura dipping sauce. Pair with steamed rice or a light salad for a complete meal. Tempura shrimp also pair beautifully with a refreshing Marshmallow Lime Salad for a delightful contrast in flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover tempura batter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, but it's best used fresh. If you have leftover fried shrimp, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tempura (Shrimp Batter) contains roughly 479 calories, with 5g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is a good source of calcium (13% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 643mg per serving (28% 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 make the tempura batter ahead of time?
It's best to use the tempura batter immediately after preparation for the best texture. However, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and mix them just before frying. Keeping the batter cold until you're ready to use it helps maintain its lightness.
What kind of oil is best for frying tempura?
Choose an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. These oils can withstand high temperatures without burning, ensuring that your tempura fries up crispy and delicious.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but they should be thawed and patted dry before dipping in the batter. This ensures that excess moisture doesn't affect the frying process and helps achieve that perfect crispy texture.
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).