Squid tempura, or kakiage as it's known in Japan, is a delightful treat that perfectly balances crispy, savory seafood with a light and airy batter. Imagine the satisfying crunch of golden-brown tempura, the tender squid within yielding to your bite, all enhanced by a delicate dipping sauce. This popular Japanese snack, often found in bustling izakayas and upscale restaurants alike, is surprisingly simple to make at home. Forget complicated techniques and expensive ingredients – our recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.
This recipe unlocks the secrets to achieving perfectly crisp tempura, guiding you through each step with ease and clarity. From selecting the freshest squid to mastering the art of the batter, we'll provide you with all the tools and knowledge you need to create this delicious dish. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds? Let's dive into the step-by-step process!
Tools Needed
- Bowl
- Chopsticks
- Frying pan
- Ladle (optional)
- Paper towels
- Plastic wrap
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Ingredients and Batter
- Make the batter halfway. Put mayonnaise in a bowl. Gradually add water, mixing until smooth. Cover and chill in the refrigerator.
- Cut green onions diagonally into approximately 5mm wide pieces. Add the green parts to a bowl.
- Rinse shiso leaves, pat dry, and chop into approximately 5mm wide pieces. Add to the bowl.
- Roughly chop red ginger and add to the bowl. Mix all ingredients well.
- Sprinkle 1.5 tablespoons of flour over the mixture and mix gently to coat.
- Remove chilled batter from refrigerator and gently mix with the ingredients.
Step 2. Mix and Chill Batter
- Make the batter halfway. Put mayonnaise in a bowl. Gradually add water, mixing until smooth. Cover and chill in the refrigerator.
- Cut green onions diagonally into approximately 5mm wide pieces. Add the green parts to a bowl.
- Rinse shiso leaves, pat dry, and chop into approximately 5mm wide pieces. Add to the bowl.
- Roughly chop red ginger and add to the bowl. Mix all ingredients well.
- Sprinkle 1.5 tablespoons of flour over the mixture and mix gently to coat.
- Remove chilled batter from refrigerator and gently mix with the ingredients.
Step 3. Fry the Tempura
- Heat about 1cm of oil in a frying pan over medium heat (around 170°C).
- Using chopsticks or a ladle, carefully place small amounts of the mixture into the hot oil. Spread it slightly, then gently shape it.
- Fry for approximately 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip when one side is firm.
Step 4. Drain and Serve
- Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Read more: Chikuwa Isobeage Recipe: Crispy Fish Cake Tempura
Tips
- Chilling the batter and flour helps create a crispier tempura.
- Adding mayonnaise to the batter helps with crispiness and adds flavor.
- Adjust cooking time depending on the size and amount of the tempura. Smaller pieces will require less time.
- If pieces separate while frying, add a bit more batter to rejoin them.
- Use a small amount and fry them one by one for easier cooking and crispier results.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 250-350
- Fat: 15-25g
- Carbs: 20-30g
- Protein: 10-15g
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen squid for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry with paper towels before using. This helps the batter adhere better and prevents excess moisture.
2. What's the best oil to use for frying tempura?
Vegetable oil with a high smoke point, like canola or peanut oil, is ideal. It provides a crisp texture and won't impart any unwanted flavors.
3. How do I prevent my tempura from becoming soggy?
Ensure your squid is completely dry before battering. Use a light hand with the batter, and fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Drain on a wire rack after frying.
With this recipe, creating restaurant-quality squid tempura at home is easier than you think. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and delicious flavor of this classic Japanese snack, perfect for a casual meal or a fun appetizer. Now go forth and impress your friends and family with your newfound tempura skills!