Shrimp Tempura Recipe: All About the Classic of Japanese Appetizers
Tempura has become over time one of the most appreciated Japanese specialties worldwide. And shrimp tempura recipe is its most gourmet and sought-after version.
In this guide we will explore the historical and cultural background of this classic of Japanese cuisine, all the way to the step-by-step shrimp tempura recipe.
What is Japanese Tempura?
Tempura is a Japanese culinary technique that consists of frying bite-sized foods. The idea is to make them tender on the inside and crispy on the outside.
One of its best known versions is shrimp tempura, a classic of Japanese appetizers and a gastronomic bastion of Japanese culture.
The Origins of Tempura
Although it is a typical preparation of Japanese cuisine, the tempura technique is actually Portuguese. It was introduced in Japan by Portuguese missionaries in the 16th century.
It was the Portuguese Jesuits, present in the city of Nagasaki, founded by the Portuguese in 1569, who introduced the custom of eating fish and vegetables during Lent using this particular frying method.
The name of this dish derives from the Portuguese term tempêro, which means "seasoned". Originally it was made by simply dredging food in flour and frying it, but over time it evolved to include more varied ingredients and a more refined frying technique.
Today, to make tempura, ingredients are dipped in a mixture of wheat flour and cold water. The mixture should be lightly but not excessively battered to keep it lumpy, which helps create the tempura shrimp texture we all love: a light, airy, and golden coating.
Traditional Shrimp Tempura Recipe
Ingredients
- Fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- All-purpose flour
- Salt
- Eggs
- Cold water
- Vegetable oil
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the ingredients
- Begin by preparing the shrimp. Make shallow cuts along the inner curve of each shrimp to prevent them from curling during frying.
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and set aside.
Step 2: The tempura batter
Prepare the tempura batter just before using it. The flour and cold water should be mixed lightly to keep small lumps, which will contribute to the crunchy texture.
- In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt.
- Lightly beat an egg and add it to the flour and salt mixture.
- Gradually add the cold water to the bowl while gently mixing the ingredients. Do not over mix.
Tip: To keep the dough cold, you can add a couple of ice cubes to the bowl while working.
Step 3: Frying
- Heat the oil in a deep frying pan or deep fryer to around 170–180°C.
- Dip the shrimps into the tempura batter, making sure they are well coated.
- Carefully lower them into the hot oil. Fry in small batches, turning them to brown evenly.
- Place the fried shrimps on paper towels to remove excess oil.
5 Tips and Tricks for the Best Shrimp Tempura Recipe
- Frying test: Before frying all the shrimp, do a test with a small piece of batter. It should bubble, float in the oil and brown in a few seconds.
- Do not overcook: Do not put too many shrimp at once in the oil, as this could cool it and cause the tempura to absorb more oil.
- Fast frying: Fry them in small quantities at a time to maintain a constant oil temperature.
- Draining: Place the fried shrimp on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Immediate consumption: Tempura is best when served immediately after frying, as its crispy texture is lost over time.
Variations on Classic Shrimp Tempura
Although traditional shrimp tempura is undeniably one of the most coveted versions, there are countless variations to explore.
Another classic of these Japanese appetizers is chicken tempura, which adds a milder touch to the classic dish. Vegetarians can enjoy veggie tempura, with a variety of colorful vegetables such as sweet potatoes, peppers and zucchini. And for sushi enthusiasts, the shrimp tempura rolls take the experience of crunchy-tender to the highest level.
Conclusion: Embrace Tempura and Taste a Classic of Japanese Cuisine
Food is a gateway to the essence of every culture. And indeed, the very recipe for shrimp tempura is a testament to the careful and meticulous essence of Japanese culture.