If you love delicious seafood, then you’re going to enjoy Ebi Furai! This Japanese dish features crispy, golden-brown deep-fried shrimp that are incredibly tasty and fun to eat. Ebi Furai is not just a favorite in Japan; it has gained popularity worldwide for its crunchy texture and savory flavor.
The history of Ebi Furai goes back to the early 20th century when Western-style cooking started to influence Japanese cuisine. The dish showcases how cultures can blend to create something new and exciting! People love Ebi Furai because it’s perfect as a snack, a meal, or even as part of a larger banquet. Plus, who can resist that crispy coating?
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Shrimp (large, peeled and deveined) | 10 pieces |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Flour | 1/2 cup |
| Egg (beaten) | 1 large |
| Breadcrumbs (Panko preferred) | 1 cup |
| Vegetable oil (for frying) | Enough for deep frying |
| Lemon wedges (for serving) | Optional |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Make sure your shrimp are clean. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Season with salt and pepper.
- Set Up Your Breading Station: In three separate bowls, place the flour in one, beaten egg in another, and breadcrumbs in the last bowl.
- Bread the Shrimp: Dip each shrimp first into the flour, shaking off the excess. Then, dip it into the beaten egg, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs. Make sure every part is covered well!
- Heat the Oil: In a large frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. You want enough oil to cover the shrimp when frying. Let it heat for about 5 minutes.
- Fry the Shrimp: Carefully add the breaded shrimp to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown.
- Drain and Serve: Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the shrimp and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve with lemon wedges if desired.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 350 | 17% |
| Protein | 22g | 44% |
| Carbohydrates | 30g | 10% |
| Fat | 18g | 28% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Cholesterol | 150mg | 50% |
| Sodium | 480mg | 21% |
Tips and Tricks
- Craving something different? Try using other seafood like calamari or fish fillets instead of shrimp!
- For extra crunch: Use Panko breadcrumbs, which are lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs.
- Keep it fresh: For the best flavor, use fresh shrimp rather than frozen.
- Avoid sogginess: Ensure that the oil is hot enough before adding the shrimp, so they fry quickly and stay crispy!
FAQs
What is Ebi Furai?
Ebi Furai is a Japanese dish made of deep-fried shrimp, often served with a delicious dipping sauce. It’s a crunchy and flavorful treat!
How is Ebi Furai different from Tempura?
While both dishes involve fried shrimp, Ebi Furai is coated in breadcrumbs, making it crispier, whereas Tempura uses a light batter.
Can I bake Ebi Furai instead of frying it?
Yes! If you want a healthier option, you can bake Ebi Furai in an oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What dipping sauce goes well with Ebi Furai?
A popular choice is tonkatsu sauce, a sweet and savory sauce perfect for complementing the flavors of Ebi Furai.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and breading!
How long can I store leftover Ebi Furai?
You can store leftover Ebi Furai in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven for a few minutes to restore the crispiness.
Is Ebi Furai gluten-free?
No, traditional Ebi Furai is not gluten-free due to the use of flour and breadcrumbs. However, you can substitute with gluten-free alternatives!
What sides go well with Ebi Furai?
Serve Ebi Furai with rice, salad, or miso soup for a complete meal that captures the essence of Japanese cuisine!
Can I make Ebi Furai with other proteins?
Absolutely! You can make Furai with chicken, vegetables, or even tofu for vegetarian options.
What tools do I need to make Ebi Furai?
You will need a frying pan, tongs or a slotted spoon, and bowls for the breading station. Make sure to have paper towels on hand for draining the cooked shrimp!
How do I know when the oil is ready for frying?
You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread into it; if it sizzles and bubbles right away, your oil is ready for frying!
Can I prepare Ebi Furai ahead of time?
Yes! You can bread the shrimp ahead of time and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to fry.
