Tempura is one of Japan’s most iconic culinary exports—a light, crispy dish typically made by deep-frying seafood or vegetables in a delicate batter. Whether you're wondering "what is tempura?" or you're looking to make your own shrimp or vegetable tempura at home, this guide covers all the essentials, from tempura batter to dipping sauces and modern twists.
What Does Tempura Mean?
Tempura (天ぷら) refers to a Japanese cooking technique where ingredients—most often seafood or vegetables—are lightly battered and deep-fried. The term originated from the Portuguese word “tempero”, meaning seasoning or cooking style, and was introduced to Japan by missionaries in the 16th century.
Minda
What Is in Tempura Batter?
Simple Ingredients, Crispy Results
A classic tempura batter is made from three basic ingredients:
- Cold water
- All-purpose flour
- Egg
The key is minimal mixing to avoid activating the gluten, resulting in a light, airy texture rather than a chewy coating.
Some recipes include:
- Cornstarch or rice flour for extra crispness
- Sparkling water or ice cubes to keep the batter cold
- Baking soda or vinegar for a fluffier finish
If you're wondering how to prepare tempura batter, the answer is: keep it cold, mix it lightly, and use it immediately.
Chef Weird Beard
Is Tempura Gluten-Free?
Traditional tempura batter is not gluten-free, as it usually contains wheat flour. However, gluten-free alternatives are easy to make by using:
- Rice flour
- Cornstarch
- Gluten-free all-purpose blends
Just be sure to check the ingredients of the tempura sauce as well, since soy sauce often contains wheat.
Julie - Mrs. Lin’s Kitchen
Popular Types of Tempura
Shrimp Tempura
What is shrimp tempura? It’s the most popular variety—juicy prawns dipped in batter and deep-fried to golden perfection. Often served with dipping sauce and rice, it’s a favorite in Japanese restaurants and bento boxes alike.
Jennie-Jojo Canlas
Vegetable Tempura
Crisp, seasonal veggies like:
Vegetable tempura is colorful, nutritious, and just as satisfying as its seafood counterpart.
Aunty Eiko’s international cuisine experience
Pawon Indo Bule
Chicken Tempura
Less common but equally tasty, chicken tempura features thin slices of chicken breast battered and fried. It's a great option for those who prefer poultry over seafood.
Hobby Horseman
Tempura Ice Cream
Yes, tempura can even be sweet! Tempura ice cream involves scoops of frozen dessert coated in batter and quickly deep-fried—crispy on the outside, creamy inside.
cookpad.japan
Tempura Sauce and How to Serve It
Tempura is typically served with tentsuyu, a dipping sauce made from:
- Dashi (Japanese broth)
- Soy sauce
- Mirin or rice wine
Some people enjoy dipping tempura in flavored salt, matcha salt, or spicy mayo. It’s often served alongside grated daikon radish, lemon, or shredded cabbage for freshness.
Ryan Goodwin
Tips for Making Perfect Tempura at Home
- Use ice-cold batter and fry in small batches.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot—this keeps the oil temperature consistent.
- Drain fried pieces on paper towels or a wire rack.
- Serve immediately for the best crunch!
FAQs About Tempura
What’s tempura?
Tempura is a Japanese dish made by deep-frying ingredients in a light batter.
What’s in tempura?
It typically includes seafood or vegetables, coated in a cold flour-egg batter and deep-fried.
What is shrimp tempura?
A type of tempura made with prawns or shrimp, often served with dipping sauce.
How do you prepare tempura batter?
Mix cold water, flour, and egg lightly to create a smooth but airy coating.
Lyii G
Tempura is more than just deep-fried food—it's a delicate balance of texture, temperature, and timing. From shrimp tempura to sweet potato tempura and even tempura ice cream, this Japanese favorite is endlessly versatile. Whether you're making it gluten-free, experimenting with chicken tempura, or just learning how to make tempura batter, you’ll find it’s a delicious and rewarding dish to master.
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Cookpad US Team
Cookpad US Team
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