Introduction

Tempura is a popular Japanese dish known for its delicate, crispy texture and delicious flavor. It is made by dipping a variety of ingredients, such as vegetables and seafood, in a light batter, and deep-frying them until golden brown. This classic tempura recipe will teach you how to make perfect tempura at home using simple ingredients and techniques.

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

1 cup ice-cold water

1 teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

Oil for deep-frying (vegetable, canola or another high smoke point oil)

For the tempura:

Assorted vegetables (such as sweet potatoes, bell peppers, eggplant, mushrooms, and green beans), thinly sliced or cut into bite-sized pieces

Seafood (such as shrimp, white fish or scallops), deveined and peeled if necessary

Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients: Clean and slice the vegetables and seafood into even-sized pieces. This ensures that they will cook evenly when fried. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

2. Make the tempura batter: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs lightly, then add the ice-cold water until well combined. Gently fold the egg mixture into the flour mixture just until everything is incorporated — do not overmix. The batter should be lumpy and slightly runny.

3. Heat the oil: Pour enough oil into a deep frying pan or pot to reach about 2 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 360°F (180°C). Use a cooking thermometer to monitor the temperature of the oil.

4. Dip & fry: Holding each vegetable or seafood piece with tongs or chopsticks, dip it in the tempura batter, allowing any excess batter to drip off. Carefully place the dipped ingredients in the hot oil, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for 1-3 minutes on each side, or until the batter is golden brown and the ingredients are cooked through.

5. Drain & serve: Use a slotted spoon or skimmer to remove the finished tempura from the oil, shaking off any excess oil. Place them on a wire rack or paper towels to drain and cool slightly. Serve immediately with dipping sauce or sprinkle with salt.

Conclusion

This classic tempura recipe is a versatile and delicious way to enjoy a variety of vegetables and seafood – not only does it make for an excellent appetizer, but it can also be incorporated into main dishes like noodles or rice bowls. Now that you know how to make classic tempura, feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients and enjoy this culinary delight in the comfort of your own home!