Image Source from homestylecooks

Air Fryer Shrimp Tempura: A Deliciously Crispy Delight

Shrimp tempura, a popular Japanese dish that beautifully marries light, crispy batter with succulent seafood, has gradually transcended its traditional roots to find a place in kitchens around the world. In an age where health-conscious eating is increasingly prioritised, the air fryer presents a wonderful opportunity to enjoy this delicacy with significantly less oil than conventional deep-frying methods. This article will guide you through creating delicious air fryer shrimp tempura that is both satisfying and guilt-free.

The Charm of Tempura

Tempura originated in the 16th century, when Portuguese traders introduced the concept of frying food in batter to Japan. Over the centuries, this culinary technique has evolved, becoming synonymous with crisp textures and delicate flavours. Traditional tempura is usually deep-fried in hot oil, leading to a sumptuous crunch that is difficult to resist. However, the air fryer now allows us to recreate this beloved dish with far less fat while still achieving that satisfying crunch.

Ingredients: What You’ll Need

To make air fryer shrimp tempura, gather the following ingredients:

• For the Shrimp:

  • 500g large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

• For the Tempura Batter:

  • 1 cup plain flour
  • 1/2 cup cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup ice-cold sparkling water (or still water with ice)
  • Optional: a dash of sesame oil for extra flavour
• For Serving:
  • Soy sauce or tentsuyu (tempura dipping sauce)
  • Grated daikon radish (optional)
  • Lemon wedges

The Preparation Process

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Begin by preparing your shrimp. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with kitchen towels. Make shallow cuts along the length of the shrimp’s back to prevent them from curling up during cooking. Season them lightly with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Make the Tempura Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine the plain flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt. Stir lightly to mix the dry ingredients. Then, make a well in the centre and pour in the ice-cold sparkling water. It’s crucial that the water is cold to ensure a crispy batter. Mix gently until just combined; don’t worry about lumps, as a slightly lumpy batter leads to a better texture.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the shrimp will have a lovely crispy exterior without too much cooking time.

Step 4: Coat and Cook the Shrimp

Dip each shrimp into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off before placing it in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding the basket; cook in batches if necessary. Spritz the batter-coated shrimp lightly with cooking spray to enhance crispiness.

Cook the shrimp in the air fryer for 8 to 10 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them as cooking times can vary depending on the size of your shrimp and the model of your air fryer.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the shrimp tempura from the air fryer and let them cool slightly on a wire rack or serving plate. Serve immediately with a side of soy sauce or tentsuyu for dipping, and if desired, some grated daikon radish and lemon wedges for a refreshing touch.

Conclusion

Air fryer shrimp tempura is an excellent way to enjoy a classic dish with a modern, healthier twist. With its light and crispy texture and tender shrimp, this dish is perfect as a starter, side, or even a main course. Embrace the delightful balance of crunch and flavour, while enjoying the benefits of reduced oil content. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy cooking!