Delicious Ebi Tempura Soba: A Taste of Japan!
Welcome to the wonderful world of Japanese cuisine! Today, we’re diving into a fantastic recipe called Ebi Tempura Soba. This dish combines crunchy shrimp tempura and savory soba noodles, making it a favorite for many. But what makes this dish really special? Ebi Tempura Soba has deep roots in Japanese culture, showcasing the art of tempura that dates back to the 16th century. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that many people love!
What’s great about Ebi Tempura Soba is that it’s not only delicious but also a beautiful dish to serve. The combination of golden-brown tempura and the inviting aroma of soba noodles makes it appealing to everyone. Let’s get started and bring this delightful dish right into your kitchen!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Soba noodles | 200 grams |
| Shrimp (peeled and deveined) | 10 pieces |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Ice cold water | 1 cup |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Vegetable oil (for frying) | Enough for deep frying |
| Tempering sauce (tsuyu) | For serving |
You can easily substitute shrimp with vegetables like sweet potatoes or bell peppers if you prefer a vegetarian option!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the soba noodles: Boil water in a pot, then add the soba noodles. Cook according to the package instructions (usually about 4-5 minutes). Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Prepare the tempura batter: In a bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add the ice-cold water, stirring gently. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!
- Heat the oil: In a deep pot or frying pan, heat enough vegetable oil to reach about 2 inches deep. The oil should be around 350°F (175°C).
- Batter the shrimp: Dip each shrimp into the tempura batter, allowing excess batter to drip off.
- Fry the shrimp: Carefully place the battered shrimp in the hot oil, frying them a few at a time. Fry for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve: In a bowl, place the soba noodles and top them with the crispy shrimp tempura. Drizzle some tsuyu sauce over the dish to enhance the flavor.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 450 | 22% |
| Protein | 22g | 44% |
| Carbohydrates | 60g | 20% |
| Fats | 15g | 23% |
| Sodium | 800mg | 35% |
| Fiber | 5g | 20% |
Tips and Tricks
- Use ice-cold water: This helps create a light and crispy batter!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Fry a few shrimp at a time to keep the oil temperature consistent.
- Try different dips: While tsuyu is traditional, you can try sweet chili sauce or soy sauce for a twist!
- Watch the frying time: Overcooking will make the shrimp tough, so keep an eye on them!
FAQs
What is Ebi Tempura?
Ebi Tempura is a Japanese dish featuring shrimp that is battered and deep-fried until crispy. It’s often served with noodles like soba.
Can I use other seafood besides shrimp?
Yes! You can use fish, squid, or other shellfish for tempura. Just make sure they are fresh!
Is Ebi Tempura Soba healthy?
It can be part of a balanced diet. However, be mindful of the oil used for frying, as it adds to the calories.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep any leftover tempura in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven for the best crispiness!
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to make the batter just before frying to keep it light. Stale batter won’t yield a crispy texture.
What sauce do you serve with Ebi Tempura Soba?
The most common sauce is tsuyu, a blend of soy sauce, mirin, and dashi, which enhances the flavor beautifully.
Is this recipe easy to make?
Yes! With simple ingredients and clear steps, even a beginner can enjoy making this dish!
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the shrimp for vegetables like sweet potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers for a tasty vegetarian option!
What is soba noodles?
Soba noodles are thin, brown noodles made from buckwheat. They are nutritious and have a wonderful nutty flavor.
Do I need any special tools to make Ebi Tempura Soba?
No special tools are needed! Just a pot for boiling, a frying pan for frying, and a bowl for mixing ingredients will do!
Can I use store-bought tempura batter?
Yes! There are many premade tempura batters available, but homemade tends to have a fresher taste.
How can I make this dish more filling?
Add extra vegetables to the soba noodles or serve with a side salad for a more hearty meal.
Now that you have all the information needed, get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful Ebi Tempura Soba recipe! Happy cooking!
