Tempura Shrimp with Dipping Sauce

Published: August 25, 2025

by Sarah Connor

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There’s something magical about Tempura Shrimp with Dipping Sauce. Imagine succulent shrimp, lightly coated in a crispy, golden batter that shatters like your dreams of ever getting a six-pack. The first bite reveals a delightful crunch, followed by the sweet brininess of the ocean and just a hint of salt. tangy cheese ball appetizer sweet potato crostini recipe Dip it in a tangy sauce that sings with soy and citrus, and you have a dish that makes even the most mundane day feel like a fancy dinner party. For more inspiration, check out this herbed tuna salad recipe recipe.

Jump to:

Essential Ingredients
Let’s Make It Together
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Add Your Touch
Storing & Reheating
FAQ
What type of shrimp is best for tempura?
Can I use frozen shrimp for tempura?
What dipping sauces pair well with tempura shrimp?
📖 Recipe Card

This dish always brings back fond memories from my childhood when my family would gather around the table for special occasions. Tempura was our go-to recipe when we wanted to impress guests, yet it felt like a cozy night in. The anticipation built as the aroma filled the kitchen, leaving everyone eagerly waiting for that first bite of tempura magic.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Tempura shrimp is not only easy to prepare but also offers an incredible flavor explosion with each bite
Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any dining table
Perfect for parties or quiet evenings at home, this dish is versatile enough for any occasion
Whip it up in no time and enjoy restaurant-quality results at home!

I still remember when my best friend took her first bite of my tempura shrimp; her eyes widened with delight, and she proclaimed it “the best thing ever.”

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: delicious pumpkin hummus.

Large Shrimp: Look for fresh, deveined shrimp for the best flavor and texture; frozen works too if thawed properly.
All-Purpose Flour: This will be your batter’s base; sifting ensures a light consistency for that perfect crunch.
Cornstarch: Cornstarch is key for achieving an ultra-crispy texture in your batter; don’t skip it! For more inspiration, check out this air fryer chicken rissoles recipe.
Baking Powder: A secret ingredient that helps create an airy batter; trust me, it’s worth it.
Ice Water: Using ice-cold water keeps the batter light and fluffy; it’s like giving your shrimp a spa treatment.
Vegetable Oil: Choose oil with a high smoke point like canola or peanut oil for frying to crispy perfection.

For the Sauce:

Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce so you can control the saltiness of your dipping sauce.
Rice Vinegar: This adds a tangy kick that balances out the savory flavors beautifully. savory blueberry brie crostini.
Wasabi Paste: Add this for an extra zing if you’re feeling adventurous; just be cautious!
Sliced Green Onions: These add freshness and color to your dipping sauce; they’re like little green confetti!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Prepare Your Shrimp: Start by peeling and deveining your shrimp if they aren’t already prepped. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.

Make the Batter: In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and ice-cold water until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; lumps are your friends here.

Heat the Oil: In a deep pot or heavy skillet, pour enough vegetable oil to submerge your shrimp halfway—about 1-2 inches deep. Heat it on medium-high until it reaches 350°F (175°C). A sprinkle of flour should sizzle when ready.

Dip and Fry!: Carefully dip each shrimp into the batter, ensuring they are well-coated but not overwhelmed. Gently lower them into the hot oil one by one. Fry until golden brown—about 2-3 minutes per side.

Drain Excess Oil: Use tongs to remove the fried shrimp from oil and place them on paper towels to absorb excess grease while maintaining their crispiness.

Prepare Dipping Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, rice vinegar, wasabi paste (if using), and green onions until well combined. Adjust flavors as desired!

Serve hot alongside your dipping sauce and watch as everyone dives into this delightful dish! Enjoy each crispy bite bursting with flavor while sharing laughs around the table.

You Must Know

Tempura shrimp is a delightful treat that combines crispy batter with tender shrimp
For best results, ensure your oil is at the right temperature to achieve that perfect crunch
The dipping sauce adds a tangy kick, elevating your shrimp experience to new heights

Perfecting the Cooking Process

The secret to perfect tempura shrimp lies in the cooking sequence: start by preparing the batter, heat the oil, and then fry the shrimp in batches for even cooking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your tempura shrimp by adding spices to the batter or using different dipping sauces like spicy mayo or sweet chili sauce for an extra zing.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover tempura shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to restore crispiness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly crispy tempura shrimp, make sure your oil is hot enough before frying
This prevents sogginess and ensures a golden finish
Additionally, avoid overcrowding the pan; fry in small batches for even cooking
Finally, serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce for optimal flavor

Cooking tempura shrimp reminds me of my first attempt at impressing friends at a dinner party. The looks on their faces when they bit into that crispy goodness were priceless! I had them hooked after just one bite.

FAQ

What type of shrimp is best for tempura?

Large, deveined shrimp work best as they hold up well during frying and provide a satisfying bite.

Can I use frozen shrimp for tempura?

Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before coating and frying to avoid excess moisture.

What dipping sauces pair well with tempura shrimp?

Soy sauce, ponzu sauce, or spicy mayo complement the crispy texture of tempura shrimp beautifully.

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