"10 Easy Tempura Recipes to Try at Home"



Tempura is a darling Japanese dish known for its light, firm batter that transforms basic ingredients into golden, crunchy delights. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, making tempura at home is more straightforward than you might think. With the right ingredients, techniques, and a little creativity, you can prepare a variety of tempura dishes that will dazzle your loved ones. Here are 10 simple tempura recipes you can attempt at home, alongside tips to perfect your frying skills.

1. Classic Shrimp Tempura

Shrimp tempura is a staple in Japanese cooking and a must-try for any tempura fan. Its succulent texture pairs beautifully with the light, crispy batter.

Ingredients:

  • 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • 1 cup ice-cold water

  • 1 egg

  • Oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. Pat the shrimp dry and make small cuts on the underside to prevent curling.

  2. In a bowl, whisk the egg, then mix it with ice-cold water.

  3. Gradually add flour to the mixture, stirring gently. Do not overmix; lumps are fine.

  4. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Dip the shrimp into the batter, letting excess drip off, and fry until golden.

  5. Serve with tempura dipping sauce or soy sauce.

2. Vegetable Tempura Variety



Vegetable tempura is versatile and a great way to enjoy crispy veggies. Use seasonal produce for the best results.

Ingredients:

  • 1 sweet potato, thinly sliced

  • 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds

  • 1 carrot, julienned

  • 1 bell pepper, sliced into strips

  • 1 cup tempura batter (same as above)

  • Oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the vegetables by slicing them into thin, even pieces.

  2. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).

  3. Dip each vegetable piece into the batter and fry in small batches until golden and crispy.

  4. Drain on paper towels and serve with dipping sauce.

3. Tempura Green Beans

Green beans make a delightful tempura option. Their natural crunch is enhanced by the light batter.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup green beans, trimmed

  • 1 cup tempura batter

  • Oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. Wash and pat dry the green beans.

  2. Dip the green beans into the batter and fry until golden brown.

  3. Serve with a sprinkle of sea salt for added flavor.

4. Tempura Mushrooms



Earthy mushrooms like shiitake or button mushrooms are perfect for tempura, offering a rich umami flavor.

Ingredients:

  • 8-10 large mushrooms, halved if necessary

  • 1 cup tempura batter

  • Oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. Clean the mushrooms and pat them dry.

  2. Dip the mushrooms into the batter and fry until crispy.

  3. Pair with ponzu sauce for a tangy twist.

5. Tempura Eggplant

Eggplant tempura is a favorite for its tender interior and crispy coating.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium eggplant, sliced into thin rounds or wedges

  • 1 cup tempura batter

  • Oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. Slice the eggplant evenly and soak in cold water for 10 minutes to remove bitterness.

  2. Pat dry, dip into the batter, and fry until golden.

  3. Serve hot with soy or tempura sauce.

6. Tempura Broccoli

Broccoli tempura is a nutritious and satisfying dish that’s also kid-friendly.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup broccoli florets

  • 1 cup tempura batter

  • Oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. Blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then cool in ice water.

  2. Pat dry, dip into the batter, and fry until golden brown.

  3. Serve with a drizzle of lemon juice or dipping sauce.

7. Tempura Sweet Corn Fritters

Sweet corn fritters add a touch of sweetness to your tempura spread.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup fresh corn kernels (or canned, drained)

  • 1 cup tempura batter

  • Oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. Mix the corn kernels with the tempura batter.

  2. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture into hot oil and fry until golden and crisp.

  3. Serve with a sweet chili dipping sauce.

8. Tempura Avocado



Tempura avocado is creamy on the inside and crispy on the outside, making it a luxurious treat.

Ingredients:

  • 2 ripe avocados, sliced

  • 1 cup tempura batter

  • Oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. Slice the avocados into wedges and pat them dry.

  2. Dip into the batter and fry until lightly golden.

  3. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and serve immediately.

9. Tempura Fish Fillets

Light and flaky white fish like cod or tilapia makes an excellent choice for tempura.

Ingredients:

  • 4 small fish fillets

  • 1 cup tempura batter

  • Oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. Pat the fish fillets dry and cut them into smaller pieces if needed.

  2. Dip into the batter and fry until golden and crispy.

  3. Serve with tartar sauce or lemon wedges.

10. Tempura Bananas

End your tempura meal with a sweet twist! Tempura bananas are a delightful dessert.

Ingredients:

  • 2 ripe bananas, sliced into thick rounds

  • 1 cup tempura batter

  • Oil for frying

  • Powdered sugar or honey for topping

Instructions:

  1. Slice the bananas evenly and pat them dry.

  2. Dip into the batter and fry until lightly golden.

  3. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with honey before serving.

Tips for Perfect Tempura

  1. Use Ice-Cold Water: The batter’s temperature is key to achieving a light, crispy texture. Use ice water to keep it cold.

  2. Don’t Overmix the Batter: A few lumps are okay; overmixing can result in a dense coating.

  3. Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil between 350°F and 375°F for the best results. Use a thermometer for accuracy.

  4. Fry in Small Batches: Overcrowding the pan lowers the oil’s temperature and makes the tempura greasy.

  5. Drain Excess Oil: Use paper towels or a wire rack to drain excess oil immediately after frying.

  6. Serve Immediately: Tempura is best enjoyed fresh and crispy.

With these 10 simple recipes and helpful tips, you’re ready to create delicious tempura dishes at home. Experiment with different ingredients, pair them with flavorful sauces, and enjoy the crispy perfection of this iconic Japanese dish. Happy frying!