Go Back

Crispy Japanese Tempura Shrimp

Elina James
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Japanese
Servings 4 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Tempura Shrimp
  • 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails left on
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup cornstarch
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup ice-cold water
  • ¼ teaspoon baking powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Vegetable oil, for deep frying
  • For the Dipping Sauce (Tentsuyu)
  • ½ cup dashi stock (or substitute with ½ cup water + ½ teaspoon dashi powder)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons mirin
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Grated daikon radish, optional

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Prepare Shrimp : Peel and devein large shrimp, leaving tails on. Pat dry with paper towels and lightly season with salt.
  • Step 2: Make the Batter : In a bowl, mix all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and baking powder. In another bowl, lightly beat egg with ice-cold water. Gently combine wet and dry ingredients to make a lumpy batter. Keep cold.
  • Step 3: Heat Oil : Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). Use enough oil to fully submerge the shrimp.
  • Step 4: Fry Shrimp : Dip shrimp in batter, allowing excess to drip off. Fry 2–3 shrimp at a time until golden and crispy, about 2–3 minutes per batch. Do not overcrowd the pan. Drain on paper towels.
  • Step 5: Prepare Dipping Sauce : Combine dashi, soy sauce, mirin, and sugar in a saucepan. Heat until sugar dissolves. Optionally, add grated daikon radish.
  • Step 6: Serve : Plate tempura shrimp immediately while hot and crisp. Serve with dipping sauce on the side.