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Crispy & Addictive Chicken Tempura with Homemade Dipping Sauce

Tempura is a beloved Japanese dish renowned for its light, crispy batter and both meat and vegetables that are perfectly fried to golden perfection. Among the various options, chicken tempura stands out for its succulent interior and tantalising crunch. This delightful recipe for Crispy & Addictive Chicken Tempura, paired with a homemade dipping sauce, is sure to please your family and friends at any gathering.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tempura:

• 500g chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup plain flour, plus extra for dusting
• 1/2 cup cornflour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 cup ice-cold water
• 1 egg (optional, for extra richness)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Homemade Dipping Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon mirin (sweet rice wine)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger (fresh)
• 1 spring onion, finely chopped
• A sprinkle of sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
Begin by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. This step enhances the flavour of the meat, ensuring that every bite is delicious.

2. Make the Batter:
In a mixing bowl, combine the plain flour, cornflour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. If you opt for a richer batter, add the egg and mix until well blended. Gradually stir in the ice-cold water until you achieve a batter-like consistency. Be careful not to overmix; some lumps are perfectly okay as they help create the crispy texture characteristic of tempura.

3. Heat the Oil:
In a deep saucepan or frying pot, heat vegetables oil to around 180°C (350°F). You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small amount of batter into it; if it sizzles and rises to the surface, you’re good to go.

4. Coat the Chicken:
Dust the seasoned chicken pieces lightly with plain flour, allowing the batter to cling better during frying. Then, dip the pieces into the batter, ensuring they are well coated.

5. Fry the Chicken:
Carefully drop the battered chicken pieces into the hot oil in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, turning occasionally. Use a slotted spoon to remove the chicken, and place it on a plate lined with kitchen paper to drain excess oil.

6. Prepare the Dipping Sauce:
While the chicken is frying, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, mirin, sesame oil, and grated ginger in a small bowl. Stir in the chopped spring onion and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, if desired. Adjust the flavours according to your taste; you may want a touch more vinegar for tartness or soy sauce for saltiness.

Serving Suggestions

Once your chicken tempura is ready, arrange it on a serving platter, and present it with the homemade dipping sauce on the side. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed rice or a fresh salad, making it a complete meal. Alternatively, serve it as an appetiser at parties, allowing guests to enjoy the crispy delight as they mingle.

Conclusion

This Crispy & Addictive Chicken Tempura will undoubtedly become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Its crispy exterior combined with the tenderness of the chicken creates a delicious bite that’s hard to resist. The homemade dipping sauce adds an extra layer of flavour, making this dish even more enjoyable. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this delightful recipe – you’ll soon be known as the tempura queen or king among your friends and family! Enjoy!