How to Perfectly Prepare and Cook Tempura Shrimp- A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Prepare Tempura Shrimp

Tempura shrimp is a popular Japanese dish that is known for its crispy texture and light, airy batter. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, preparing tempura shrimp can be a delightful and rewarding experience. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how to prepare tempura shrimp, ensuring that your dish is both delicious and visually appealing.

Ingredients

Before you start preparing tempura shrimp, gather the following ingredients:

– 1 pound of fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup of ice-cold water
– 1 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup of cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
– 1/4 cup of vegetable oil (for frying)

Equipment

To prepare tempura shrimp, you will need the following equipment:

– A large mixing bowl
– A strainer or colander
– A deep fryer or a large pot with oil
– A bamboo skewer or chopsticks
– A plate lined with paper towels

Instructions

1.

Prepare the Shrimp

– Begin by peeling and deveining the shrimp. Make sure to remove the tails if desired.
– Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.

2.

Make the Batter

– In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking soda.
– Slowly add the ice-cold water to the dry ingredients, whisking constantly until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.

3.

Heat the Oil

– Fill a deep fryer or a large pot with vegetable oil to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) using a candy thermometer or by dropping a small piece of batter into the oil. If it sizzles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.

4.

Coat the Shrimp

– Dip each shrimp into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated.
– Gently shake off any excess batter before placing the shrimp on the plate lined with paper towels.

5.

Fry the Shrimp

– Carefully lower the shrimp into the hot oil using a bamboo skewer or chopsticks. Be cautious as the oil may splatter.
– Fry the shrimp for about 1-2 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
– Use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp from the oil and place them on the paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

6.

Serve Immediately

– Once the shrimp are cooked, serve them immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as soy sauce, wasabi, or a combination of both.

By following these simple steps, you can enjoy a delicious and perfectly prepared tempura shrimp dish. Remember to experiment with different dipping sauces and seasoning to create your own unique flavor combinations. Happy cooking!