SHRIMP TEMPURA (LIGHT)
Light and crispy Shrimp Tempura is a delightful Japanese appetiser that combines minimal ingredients with maximum flavour. This simplified version offers all the crunch and savoury satisfaction of traditional tempura, using a small quantity of batter, salt and oil for a healthier twist. With just a few steps, this dish brings together the natural sweetness of shrimp and the light saltiness of the coating. Perfect as a starter, snack or side dish, it pairs well with dipping sauces like tentsuyu or soy-based dressings. The shallow frying technique ensures a golden crust while preserving the shrimp’s tender texture. It is ideal for busy weeknights, dinner parties or an elegant lunch. Quick to prepare and visually appealing, this tempura recipe provides an excellent introduction to Japanese cuisine with a clean finish and balanced profile suitable for various dietary considerations.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Appetisers
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Japanese
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
5 Ingredients or Less, Pan-Fry
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Casual Dinner, Date Night, Picnic, Party, Japanese Festival, Summer, Anniversary, Back to School
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Low Fat, Quick & Easy, Dairy-Free
DISH TYPE
Appetisers
INGREDIENTS
Here is a list of ingredients for Shrimp Tempura (Light):
- 2 medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons tempura batter (flour + water)
- 1 teaspoon oil (for shallow frying)
- Pinch of salt
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 95
- Protein:2g
- Fat:2g
- Saturated Fat:6g
- Carbohydrates:9g
- Sugar:2g
- Fibre:2g
- Cholesterol: 52mg
- Sodium: 215mg
- Potassium: 88mg
- Calcium: 15mg
- Iron:3mg
PREPARATION
- Prepare Shrimp: Pat dry the peeled and deveined shrimp using a paper towel and lightly season with a pinch of salt.
- Mix Tempura Batter: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of tempura flour with cold water until smooth. The batter should be light and slightly runny.
- Coat The Shrimp: Dip each shrimp into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated but not overloaded.
- Heat Oil: Add 1 teaspoon of oil to a small frying pan over medium flame. Allow it to reach the right temperature for shallow frying (about 170°C/340°F).
- Fry The Shrimp: Carefully place the shrimp into the pan and fry each side for about 1–2 minutes or until golden and crisp.
- Drain And Serve: Remove the shrimp from the pan, drain on kitchen paper and serve it hot with optional dipping sauce.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
5 minutes
TIPS
Here are some helpful tips for Shrimp Tempura (Light):
- Cold Batter Is Key: Use ice-cold water to create a light and crispy coating.
- Don’t Overmix: Slight lumps in the batter are ideal for creating a crunchy texture.
- Use A Small Pan: For single-serving portions, a small pan helps to maintain oil temperature efficiently.
- Dry The Shrimp:Dry shrimp helps to remove excess moisture, which ensures a healthier batter adhesion and prevents oil splatter.
- Pair With Sauces: Serve with ponzu or a soy-based dipping sauce for added umami.
VARIATIONS
- Vegetable Tempura: Replace shrimp with slices of sweet potato, zucchini or bell pepper for a vegetarian option.
- Gluten-Free: Use rice flour or a gluten-free tempura mix.
- Prawn Alternative: Try using squid or fish fillets if shrimp is not available.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or wasabi to the batter for a kick.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Prepping: Batter should be made just before frying to maintain its light texture.
- Fridge: Cooked tempura can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days but will lose crispiness.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the batter becomes soggy after thawing.
- Reheating: Best reheated in an oven or air fryer to restore some crispness.