Effortless and Delicious Prawn Tempura
If you’re seeking a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer to impress your guests, look no further than this Prawn Tempura recipe. This Japanese dish features crispy, golden-brown prawns encased in a light and airy tempura batter, resulting in a crunchy treat that’s bursting with flavor. Perfect as a snack, starter, or even a main course, these bite-sized prawn tempura pieces are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 200g raw prawns, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup plain flour
– 1/2 cup cornflour
– 1/2 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup ice-cold sparkling water
– Sunflower oil, for frying
– Soy sauce, for serving
– Pickled ginger and wasabi, for garnish
Preparation:
1. In a medium bowl, mix the plain flour, cornflour, baking powder, and salt together. Gradually whisk in the sparkling water until you have a smooth batter. It’s okay if it’s a bit lumpy.
2. Heat the sunflower oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium-high heat. You’ll need enough oil to submerge the prawns completely.
3. Dip each prawn into the batter, making sure it’s well coated. Carefully place the prawns into the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
4. Repeat the process with the remaining prawns, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan as this will lower the oil temperature and make the tempura heavy.
5. Serve the prawn tempura hot, accompanied by soy sauce for dipping. Garnish with pickled ginger and a touch of wasabi for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips for Success:
– Use ice-cold sparkling water for the batter. The cold temperature and fizziness will help create a light and crispy coating.
– Pat the prawns dry before coating them in batter. Excess moisture will prevent the batter from sticking properly.
– Don’t leave the prawn tempura in the oil for too long. It cooks quickly, and overcooking will result in tough prawns.
– Test the oil temperature by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil. If it sizzles and floats to the top, it’s ready for frying.
Serving Suggestions:
– Prawn tempura can be enjoyed on its own as a snack or appetizer.
– Serve on a bed of salad greens with a zesty dipping sauce for a light and satisfying meal.
– Pair with sushi or sashimi for a Japanese-inspired feast.
– Enjoy with a side of steamed rice and stir-fried veggies for a complete and balanced dinner.
In conclusion, this Prawn Tempura recipe offers a simple yet impressive way to elevate your culinary skills and treat your taste buds to a delightful experience. With its crispy texture and succulent prawns, it’s a mini delight that’s perfect for any occasion. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create this effortless and delicious dish that will have everyone coming back for more.