Are you craving a light, crispy, and utterly delicious meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This tempura shrimp recipe with a homemade dipping sauce is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend treat. Forget takeout – this homemade version is healthier, tastier, and way more satisfying. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet elegant dish!
Ingredients:
For the Tempura Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup ice water
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Zesty Dipping Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (or more, to taste)
- ½ teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Prepare the shrimp by peeling and deveining them. Pat them dry with paper towels – this is crucial for achieving a crispy tempura.
Make the Tempura Batter:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually whisk in the ice water until you have a smooth batter. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay. The batter should be slightly thick.
Fry the Shrimp:
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the correct temperature for perfectly golden shrimp.
- Dip each shrimp into the batter, ensuring it's fully coated.
- Carefully add the battered shrimp to the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy tempura.
- Fry for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the shrimp with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Prepare the Dipping Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together all the dipping sauce ingredients until well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. More sriracha for extra heat, or a squeeze of lime for extra zest!
Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the crispy tempura shrimp immediately with the zesty dipping sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Tempura:
- Ice water is key: Using ice water helps create a lighter, crispier batter.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: This will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy tempura.
- Don't overmix the batter: A few lumps are okay; overmixing will develop the gluten and make the tempura tough.
- Fry at the right temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature (375°F or 190°C).
Variations:
- Vegetable Tempura: Try battering and frying other vegetables like broccoli florets, zucchini slices, or sweet potato sticks.
- Spicy Shrimp: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped chili peppers to the batter for a spicier kick.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: Substitute the zesty dipping sauce with your favorite sweet chili sauce for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 (depending on shrimp size and oil absorption) Protein: 20-25g Fat: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This delicious and healthy meal is perfect for a quick dinner, a fun appetizer, or even a light lunch. The crispy tempura shrimp combined with the tangy dipping sauce creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Enjoy!