Crispy & Juicy Shrimp Tempura: The Golden Recipe
How to Fry Shrimp Tempura to Perfection at Home
Experience the ultimate crunch and the sweet, tender flavor of plump shrimp! This recipe is simple yet perfect for special occasions or as a delightful snack with drinks. We’ll guide you through the secrets of achieving a restaurant-quality crispy exterior and a succulent, moist interior.
Shrimp Tempura Ingredients- 20 fresh raw shrimp
- 1 cup tempura flour
- Pinch of salt
- Pinch of black pepper
- 1 Tbsp mirin (sweet rice wine)
- 1/2 cup ice water
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, we’ll prepare the shrimp to ensure the best texture and flavor. Peel the shrimp, removing the heads and the hard outer shells. Then, using a toothpick, carefully devein the shrimp by inserting it between the first and second segments on the back. This crucial step removes the dark intestinal tract, which can impart a bitter taste and affect the texture. Once deveined, lightly season the shrimp with salt and pepper. For an extra touch of flavor and to eliminate any potential fishiness, add 1 tablespoon of mirin and gently toss to coat. Let the shrimp marinate for about 10 minutes. This will significantly enhance the overall taste of your shrimp tempura.
Step 2
Now, let’s create the crispy coating – the soul of tempura! In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of tempura flour with 1/2 cup of ice water. Mix them together lightly with chopsticks; it’s perfectly fine if there are still some lumps. Overmixing can actually make the coating less crispy. You’re looking for a slightly thick batter that will adhere well to the shrimp without being too runny or too heavy. Leave the tail end of each shrimp exposed and dip the rest into the batter, ensuring an even coating. Aim for a coating that’s not too thin (which won’t be crispy enough) and not too thick (which can become soggy).
Step 3
Getting the oil temperature just right is key for perfect tempura! Pour enough cooking oil into a deep pan or pot to generously cover the shrimp. Heat the oil over medium heat. To test the temperature, drop a tiny bit of batter into the oil; it should sizzle and float to the surface immediately. If the oil is too hot, the tempura will burn on the outside before cooking through, and if it’s too cool, it will absorb too much oil and become greasy. Carefully place the battered shrimp into the hot oil, making sure they don’t stick together. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Be mindful not to overcook, as this will make the shrimp tough and chewy. Shrimp cook very quickly!
Step 4
And there you have it – your beautifully golden shrimp tempura! The exterior is impressively crispy, promising a satisfying ‘crunch’ with every bite, while the inside remains wonderfully tender and juicy, allowing the natural sweetness of the shrimp to shine through. Enjoy them immediately while they’re at their best!
Step 5
With this recipe, you can easily recreate delicious, crispy shrimp tempura at home, perfect for elevating a meal or serving as an irresistible appetizer. The delightful combination of a crunchy coating and succulent shrimp is sure to be a hit! Enjoy your meal!
