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Broccoli Tempura Recipe: A Crispy Delight

Tempura is a culinary technique that hails from Japan, known for its light and crispy batter encasing a variety of vegetables and seafood. Broccoli tempura offers a unique twist on this delightful dish, combining the nutritional benefits of broccoli with the satisfying crunch of tempura batter. This recipe is not only simple to follow but also a fantastic way to impress guests or treat yourself to a gourmet experience at home.

Ingredients

To prepare delicious broccoli tempura, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Tempura Batter:

• 100g plain flour
• 50g cornflour (cornstarch)
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 250ml cold sparkling water (or ice water for extra crispiness)
• A pinch of salt

For the Broccoli:

• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Dipping Sauce:

• 4 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp mirin (optional)
• 1 tsp rice vinegar
• A sprinkle of sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli

Begin by washing the broccoli thoroughly. Cut the head into bite-sized florets, ensuring they are roughly similar in size to ensure even cooking. Set the florets aside while you prepare the batter.

Step 2: Make the Tempura Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine the plain flour, cornflour, and salt. Then, create a well in the centre and add the beaten egg. Gradually pour in the cold sparkling water, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing; it’s perfectly alright if the batter is slightly lumpy. The key to a light tempura is to keep the batter cold and not to overwork it.

Step 3: Heat the Oil

In a deep frying pan or wok, pour enough vegetable oil to submerge the broccoli florets (around 5cm deep). Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 180°C (350°F). To test if the oil is ready, drop a tiny bit of batter into the oil; if it bubbles and rises to the surface quickly, you’re ready to fry.

Step 4: Fry the Broccoli

Coat each broccoli floret in the tempura batter, allowing any excess to drip off before carefully lowering them into the hot oil. Fry the florets in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for approximately 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to turn them occasionally for even cooking.

Once cooked, remove the tempura broccoli from the oil and place them on a plate lined with kitchen paper to absorb any excess oil.

Step 5: Prepare the Dipping Sauce

While the broccoli is frying, whisk together the soy sauce, mirin (if using), and rice vinegar in a small bowl. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture and flavour.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the crispy broccoli tempura hot, alongside the dipping sauce. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed rice or as part of a larger Japanese-inspired spread. For an additional touch, garnish with finely sliced spring onions or serve with a dollop of wasabi for those who enjoy a kick!

Conclusion

Broccoli tempura is a delightful fusion of health and indulgence, offering a crunchy texture and a fresh taste that can brighten up any meal. Not only is it perfect for satisfying snack cravings, but it can also serve as an elegant appetiser at dinner parties. So next time you’re in the mood for something a bit different, give this easy recipe a try. You’ll be amazed at how delicious a humble vegetable can become when enveloped in a light, crispy batter! Enjoy your cooking!

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