Homemade Shrimp Tempura

Homemade shrimp tempura is a light and crispy Japanese dish featuring battered shrimp fried to perfection, paired with a zesty chilli sauce dip for a fiery twist. This recipe is quick to prepare and makes an elegant appetiser or satisfying snack.

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 15

Total Time 25

Servings Starters

Ingredients

Shrimp Tempura:

16 large shrimp peeled, deveined, tails on
1 cup plain flour
1 cup sparkling water ice-cold
1 large egg cold free range
1/4 tsp baking powder
1 pinch salt
Vegetable oil for frying

Chilli Sauce Dip:

Instructions

In a bowl, lightly whisk the egg. Add the flour, baking powder and a pinch of salt, followed by the sparkling water. Mix gently until just combined; some lumps are fine. Place the batter in the fridge to stay chilled.
1 cup plain flour, 1 cup sparkling water, 1/4 tsp baking powder, 1 pinch salt, 1 large egg
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure the batter adheres. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 180°C (350°F).
16 large shrimp, Vegetable oil
Dip each shrimp into the cold batter, letting any excess drip off, then carefully place it into the hot oil. Fry in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy. Remove and drain on a paper towel.
Combine the sweet chilli sauce, lime juice, soy sauce and grated ginger in a small bowl. Stir well and set aside.
1/4 cup sweet chilli sauce, 1 tbsp lime juice, 1 tsp soy sauce, 1/2 tsp fresh ginger
Arrange the Homemade shrimp tempura on a plate and serve hot with the chilli sauce dip on the side. Garnish with lime wedges or fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Tips and Suggestions for Homemade Shrimp Tempura:

- Keep the batter cold for a light and crispy texture. Ice-cold sparkling water is key to achieving the airy tempura crust.

- Do not overcrowd the frying pan, as it can lower the oil temperature and make the shrimp soggy.

- For extra flavour, season the shrimp lightly with salt before dipping them into the batter.

- The chilli sauce dip can be customised with more lime for tanginess or a dash of sriracha for extra heat.

Nutrition