Easy Shrimp Tempura

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Shrimp Tempura is a light, crispy, and irresistible dish that brings the flavors of Japanese cuisine right to your kitchen. Made with simple ingredients and minimal prep, this version of shrimp tempura is perfect for a quick appetizer, dinner party, or sushi night at home. The airy batter and tender shrimp create a delicious contrast of texture and flavor that’s hard to resist.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

large shrimpcornstarchall-purpose flourbaking sodasaltice-cold sparkling watereggvegetable oil (for frying)

directions

Peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails on. Make a few shallow slits on the underside of each shrimp to keep them from curling when fried.

Pat the shrimp dry and lightly coat them with cornstarch. Set aside.

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.

In a separate bowl, beat the egg and mix it with ice-cold sparkling water.

Gently mix the wet ingredients into the dry, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix—the batter should be slightly lumpy.

Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C).

Dip each shrimp into the batter, letting the excess drip off, then carefully lower into the hot oil.

Fry in small batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden and crispy.

Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack or paper towels.

Serve immediately with tempura dipping sauce or soy sauce.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 shrimp.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 10 minutesTotal time: 20 minutes

Variations

Add a touch of garlic or onion powder to the batter for added flavor.

Use club soda instead of sparkling water if preferred.

Try the same batter for vegetables like sweet potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers.

Sprinkle with togarashi (Japanese chili seasoning) for a spicy kick.

storage/reheating

Store leftover shrimp tempura in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to regain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the batter soggy.

FAQs

What makes tempura batter light and crispy?

The cold sparkling water and minimal mixing help create a light, airy batter that crisps beautifully when fried.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure they are fully thawed and dried before using.

Do I need a thermometer for the oil?

It’s recommended to maintain the right temperature, but you can test by dropping a bit of batter into the oil—if it sizzles and floats, it’s ready.

Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?

No, it’s best to mix the batter right before frying to maintain its airy texture.

Can I use another type of seafood?

Yes, scallops or white fish fillets also work well with this tempura batter.

Is tempura gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can substitute gluten-free flour for a similar result.

Conclusion

Easy Shrimp Tempura is a fast, foolproof way to enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home. With its ultra-crispy coating and tender shrimp, it’s a guaranteed hit for any occasion. Serve it hot and fresh with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy a taste of Japan in every bite.

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