### Delicious Chef John's Shrimp Tempura: A Step-by-Step Guide
Chef John's shrimp tempura is a crispy, golden-brown treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Follow these detailed steps to recreate this Japanese delicacy at home using SEO-friendly formatting and relevant keywords.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 eggs, room temperature
- 2 cups water
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 3 inches deep)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon grated ginger
#### Equipment:
- Deep fryer or large pot with a lid
- Wire mesh strainer
- Paper towels
- Cutting board and knife
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
#### Preparation:
1. **Prepare the Shrimp**: Rinse the shrimp under cold water, then pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels.
2. **Mix Batter**: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, baking powder (2 teaspoons), and salt (3/4 teaspoon). Whisk well to ensure there are no lumps.
#### Egg Wash:
1. **Beat Eggs**: Crack the eggs into a separate bowl, whisk until well combined.
2. **Mix Batter and Eggs**: Slowly pour the beaten eggs into the dry mixture, stirring continuously with a wire whisk or fork. Gradually add water (3/4 cup at a time) while mixing to form a smooth batter.
#### Shrimp Preparation:
1. **Coat Shrimp**: Dip each shrimp in the egg wash, ensuring it's fully covered. Then, coat the shrimp thoroughly in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
#### Frying Process:
1. **Heat Oil**: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Ensure the oil is hot before adding the shrimp.
2. **Fry Shrimp**: Carefully place the coated shrimp into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to remove from the oil.
#### Finishing:
1. **Drain Excess Oil**: Place fried shrimp on a wire mesh strainer lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
2. **Serve Hot**: Serve immediately, garnished with grated ginger if desired.
### Tips and Variations:
- For an extra crispy exterior, consider freezing the coated shrimp for 15 minutes before frying.
- Use different types of seafood such as calamari or prawns to make this dish more versatile.
- Add a pinch of sugar to the batter for a slightly sweeter tempura flavor.
By following these detailed steps and incorporating SEO-friendly formatting, you can create delicious Chef John's shrimp tempura that is sure to impress your family and friends. Don't forget to share photos on social media with #ChefJohnsShrimpTempura!