Vegetarian Planet Asparagus Wasabi Tempura: A Crunchy Delight
Discover a world of flavor with this Asparagus Wasabi Tempura recipe, inspired by the beloved vegetarian cookbook Vegetarian Planet by Didi Emmons. This dish exemplifies the beauty of light, crispy tempura and offers an exciting twist with the inclusion of wasabi. Not only is it a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal asparagus, but it also opens the door to delicious onion rings if you’re feeling adventurous. Perfect as a snack or part of a light lunch, this dish is sure to impress with its delightful crunch and zesty flavor.
Recipe Overview
| Recipe Information | |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 6 minutes |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 26 minutes |
| Recipe Category | Lunch/Snacks |
| Servings | 16 asparagus spears |
| Rating | 5 stars (3 reviews) |
Description
This Asparagus Wasabi Tempura features fresh asparagus spears coated in a light and crispy batter, creating a delightful contrast between the tender vegetable and its crunchy exterior. The wasabi adds a unique kick that elevates the dish, making it perfect for those who appreciate a touch of spice. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a flavorful snack, this recipe is a must-try!
Ingredients
To prepare this mouthwatering dish, gather the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Asparagus spears | 16 |
| Unbleached flour | ¾ cup |
| Cornstarch | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground ginger | 1 teaspoon |
| Wasabi powder | 1-2 teaspoons |
| Water | ¼ cup |
| Beer | ½ cup |
| Vegetable oil (for frying) | as needed |
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this Asparagus Wasabi Tempura contains the following nutritional values, making it a delightful addition to your meals:
| Nutritional Content | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 274.1 kcal |
| Total Fat | 27.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 170.8 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 6.7 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sugar | 0.5 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Asparagus Wasabi Tempura:
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Prepare the Batter: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the unbleached flour, cornstarch, salt, sugar, baking powder, ground ginger, and wasabi powder. Mix these dry ingredients together thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
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Create the Tempura Mixture: Gradually add the water and beer to the dry mixture, whisking slowly until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. The consistency should be light and airy, ideal for creating that signature tempura texture.
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Heat the Oil: In a large saucepan or skillet, ideally at least 8 inches in diameter, pour in enough vegetable oil to submerge the asparagus spears. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches the right temperature.
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Test the Oil: To check if the oil is hot enough, drop in about ½ teaspoon of the batter. If it bubbles and fizzes immediately upon contact, your oil is ready for frying.
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Fry the Asparagus: Dip each asparagus spear into the batter, ensuring it is well-coated. Carefully place the battered asparagus into the hot oil. Fry 8 spears at a time for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
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Drain the Tempura: Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried asparagus from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb any excess oil, keeping your tempura light and crispy.
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Repeat the Process: Continue dipping and frying the remaining 8 asparagus spears in the same manner until they are all cooked.
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Serve and Enjoy: For the best experience, serve the Asparagus Wasabi Tempura immediately while it’s hot. Pair it with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
Additional Tips
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Onion Rings Variation: If you’re in the mood to experiment, try substituting the asparagus with onion slices to create your own delicious onion rings. Just slice the onions into rings, dip them in the batter, and follow the same frying instructions for a crunchy treat.
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Serving Suggestions: These tempura spears pair wonderfully with a soy sauce or a spicy dipping sauce made with additional wasabi for an extra kick.
This Asparagus Wasabi Tempura recipe is a delightful way to enjoy seasonal vegetables in a fun and flavorful manner. The combination of light batter and fresh asparagus creates a crunchy snack or side dish that everyone will love. Whether for lunch or a gathering, this dish is bound to be a hit, so prepare to savor each crispy bite!
