The first time I bit into crispy shrimp tempura, it was like fireworks exploded in my mouth. Imagine succulent shrimp wrapped in a delicate, airy batter that crackles with each bite, releasing a deliciously salty aroma. The crunchiness of the batter perfectly contrasts with the tender shrimp inside, making every morsel a delightful experience. perfect side for shrimp tempura It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to stop everything and just savor the moment, perhaps while pretending to be a fancy sushi chef on your kitchen counter.

This dish is perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving something tasty on a lazy Sunday afternoon. I fondly remember the time I attempted to impress my friends with my culinary skills and ended up becoming their unofficial “tempura guru.” Spoiler alert: they were converted from takeout fans to homemade tempura enthusiasts in no time! seasonal treat after tempura.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
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- <p>Crispy shrimp tempura is easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions
- The dish offers an incredible flavor combination that will leave your taste buds dancing. <a href="https://hibord.com/campfire-cones/">fun dessert for a seafood meal</a> Its stunning presentation makes it a showstopper at any gathering
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to pair with various dipping sauces or sides
- For more inspiration, check out this <a href="https://hibord.com/creamy-seafood-delight-in-a-bread-bowl-recipe/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Creamy Seafood Delight</a> recipe.</p>
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I still chuckle when my friends rave about how the crispy shrimp tempura made them rethink their love for pizza at parties. indulgent chocolate dessert.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Shrimp: Choose large, fresh shrimp for better texture; devein and peel them for optimal results.
All-Purpose Flour: A must-have for creating that light and crispy batter; sift it for best results.
Cornstarch: This secret ingredient enhances the crispiness of the batter; don’t skip it!
Baking Powder: Adds airiness to the batter; ensure it’s fresh for maximum fluffiness.
Ice Water: Cold water helps achieve that dreamy light batter; use ice-cold water for best results.
Vegetable Oil: For frying; choose oils with high smoke points like canola or peanut oil.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Shrimp: Start by cleaning your shrimp thoroughly. Remove shells and devein them carefully if not prepped already. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure crispiness.
Make the Tempura Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and some salt. Gradually add ice-cold water while whisking gently until you achieve a smooth consistency—aim for lightness here.
Heat the Oil: In a deep pan or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test if it’s ready by dropping in a small amount of batter; if it sizzles immediately, you’re good to go!
Dip and Fry: Take each shrimp and dip it into the batter until coated lightly. Carefully place them into hot oil one by one without overcrowding; fry until golden brown and crispy—about 2-3 minutes per side.
Drain and Serve!: Once cooked, remove shrimp tempura from oil and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce—and don’t forget to enjoy every last crunch! For more inspiration, check out this Creamy Chicken Marsala Pasta recipe.
You Must Know
- Crispy Shrimp Tempura is a delightful treat that combines crunchiness and tenderness
- The light batter creates a heavenly texture, perfect for dipping
- Don’t forget the dipping sauce; it elevates flavors and makes every bite an experience worth savoring
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing your shrimp and batter, then heat the oil while you set up for frying. This ensures everything is hot and ready, leading to perfectly crispy tempura.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to experiment with veggies like bell peppers or zucchini alongside shrimp. Adding spices or herbs to the batter can also enhance the flavor profile uniquely.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover shrimp tempura in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes to regain crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use cold water when making your batter to achieve that light and airy texture
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; fry in batches for even cooking
- Serve immediately for optimal crispness; nobody loves soggy tempura!
I remember the first time I made crispy shrimp tempura for a dinner party. My friends raved about it, and I felt like a culinary superstar!
FAQ
How do I achieve extra crispy shrimp tempura?
Use ice-cold water in your batter and avoid overmixing for a lighter texture.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, just be sure to thaw them thoroughly and pat dry before battering.
What dipping sauces pair well with tempura?
Traditional tentsuyu sauce, soy sauce, or spicy mayo make excellent dipping options.

Crispy Shrimp Tempura
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Crispy shrimp tempura is a delightful dish that brings the perfect balance of crunch and tenderness. Each bite features succulent shrimp enveloped in a light, airy batter, creating a mouthwatering experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself on a relaxing weekend, this tempura is sure to impress. Pair it with your favorite dipping sauce for an elevated taste sensation that will have everyone raving.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 cup ice-cold water
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Clean the shrimp thoroughly, removing shells and deveining if necessary. Pat dry with paper towels.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Gradually whisk in ice-cold water until smooth.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Dip each shrimp into the batter and gently place them in the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Remove from oil and drain on paper towels before serving with your preferred dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Japanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 shrimp (120g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 160mg