- Clean and Prepare the Shrimp
Begin by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry thoroughly with a paper towel. Peel off the shells, leaving the tail intact for a classic tempura presentation. Using a small knife, make a shallow slit along the back to remove the vein. Then make a few small slits on the belly side to help straighten the shrimp. This prevents curling during frying and ensures even cooking. Once prepped, lightly dust the shrimp with flour. This will help the batter adhere better later.
- Make the Tempura Batter
In a mixing bowl, beat a cold egg and stir in one cup of ice-cold water. In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Gently add the dry mixture into the egg-water mixture and stir just enough to combine. Be careful not to overmixālumps are normal and even desirable in tempura batter, as they help create an airy, crispy texture. Keep the batter cold by placing the bowl over ice or refrigerating it briefly until ready to use.
- Fry the Shrimps
Heat a deep pan or fryer with vegetable oil to around 170ā180Ā°C (340ā360Ā°F). Once hot, dip each floured shrimp into the cold batter, coating it evenly. Carefully lower the shrimp into the oil and fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry each shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes or until golden and crispy. Remove them with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels or a wire rack to keep them crisp.
- Prepare the Sweet Chili Sauce
While the shrimp are resting, make the dipping sauce. In a small saucepan, combine rice vinegar, sugar, water, minced garlic, fish sauce (or soy sauce), and red chili flakes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Add the cornstarch slurry (a mix of cornstarch and water) to the pan and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency. Let it cool slightly before serving.
- Assemble and Serve
Arrange the hot tempura shrimp on a serving platter, either stacked or laid flat. You can drizzle the chili sauce over the top or serve it on the side as a dip. For a finishing touch, garnish with sesame seeds, chopped scallions, or a wedge of lime. Serve immediately while the shrimp are still crisp and the flavors are fresh.
Nutrition Notes
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High Protein: Shrimp provides lean protein with very little fat.
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Moderate Calories: The tempura batter and frying oil increase the calorie count.
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Sodium Watch: Both the fish sauce and added salt contribute to a higher sodium level.
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Sugar Source: The sweet chili sauce contains added sugar, contributing to the carb and sugar content.
- Calories:380 kcal
- Protein:18 g
- Total Fat:18 g
- Cholesterol:135 mg
- Carbohydrates:30 g
Tempura Shrimps with Chili Sauce combine the airy, delicate crunch of traditional Japanese tempura with the bold, sweet-spicy punch of a homemade chili dipping sauce. Each golden-fried shrimp delivers a light, crisp bite balanced by tender seafood inside and the bright, tangy flavor of chili, garlic, and vinegar.
This dish makes an ideal appetizer for parties, an elegant starter for dinner, or a flavor-packed snack. Whether served with chopsticks at an Asian-themed meal or passed around as finger food, these shrimp tempura bites are guaranteed to impress.
Why Tempura Shrimps with Chili Sauce Are So Popular
Crispy, juicy, and full of contrast, tempura shrimps with chili sauce offer more than just texture. The batter is light and cold, creating a whisper-thin crunch without soaking up too much oil. This keeps the shrimp juicy while allowing their flavor to shine through.
The sweet chili sauce made from vinegar, garlic, sugar, and chili flakes brings a sweet-spicy edge that cuts through the richness of the fried shrimp, delivering flavor complexity in every bite.
When to Serve Tempura Shrimps
Tempura shrimps with chili sauce work beautifully in a variety of settings:
- Appetizers at dinner parties
- Finger food for casual gatherings
- Side dish in Asian-fusion menus
- Elegant plated starters with salad or rice
Their lightness makes them feel upscale without being heavy, and theyāre flexible enough for formal or relaxed meals.
Health Insights ā Are Tempura Shrimps with Chili Sauce Healthy?
These shrimp bring both nutrients and indulgence to the table. Here’s a closer look at their pros and cons:
ā Benefits of Tempura Shrimps:
- Lean protein: Shrimp are low in calories and high in protein.
- Essential nutrients: You get selenium, B12, and omega-3s from each serving.
- Less greasy: Tempura batter is thinner than traditional breading, reducing oil absorption.
ā ļø Things to Watch Out For:
- Deep-fried: Like any fried food, it contains saturated fats.
- Chili sauce: While flavorful, it can be high in sugar and sodium.
To create a more balanced meal, pair these shrimps with steamed greens, cucumber salad, or lightly dressed slaw. You can even experiment with baking or air frying for a lighter touch.
Final Thoughts on Tempura Shrimps with Chili Sauce
Elegant and exciting, tempura shrimps with chili sauce deliver the perfect contrast of crispy texture and bold flavor. Theyāre impressive enough for special occasions but simple enough to make at home with minimal effort.
From the light, crunchy shell to the zesty dipping sauce, this dish is a fusion of refinement and spice that hits all the right notes. Enjoy it in moderation, and it might just become your new go-to appetizer.
