tempura batter & dipping sauce

How To Make tempura batter & dipping sauce

• Step 1
  Mix dry ingredients well. Add very cold seltzer or beer until desired thickness is acheived. Mix in a little at a time. Mix gently to retain carbonation. Mixture should be used right away while the mixture has the most carbonation. Note: Add a 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda and buttermilk instead of beer or seltzer for a more bread like batter. Let sit a couple of minutes until bubbly Use right away while still bubbly for a crispier result.
• Step 2
  Make sure the oil for frying is very hot or the food will soak up too much oil and be greasy and soggy. The bits of food should be small and will float to the top when done. They should be golden brown. The more done they are the longer they will stay crispy. Fry in small batches to retain the heat in the oil. Drain on paper towels serve on a plain or fancy paper doily. Serve immediately. Note: Make the batter in small batches so when the batter goes flat a new one can be made and more seltzer or beer can be added. I buy the small bottles of seltzer instead of the larger bottles. Bigger bottles lose their carbonation after awhile. For Gluten Free, try garbanzo (chickpea) flour.
• Step 3
  Here is a traditional dipping sauce: Tamari (wheat free) or soy sauce (wheat and soy) A few drops of sesame oil A little water or sake to dilute 1/4 teaspoon of sugar (optional) Dash of cayenne or white pepper (optional) 1/2 teaspoon chopped scallion (green tops only) Mix well. Note: Use very little sake as it will make the sauce a slightly bitter. Add a couple of drops of lemon or orange juice for shrimp tempura. I promised this recipe to member Areatha and dedicate it to her! I hope all of you enjoy it~!
• Last Step: Don't forget to share! Post a picture of your finished recipe here and on your favorite social network. Don't forget to tag Just A Pinch and include #justapinchrecipes!