Fish and Seafood Tempura

Instructions

1. Step 1

   Gather the ingredients.

2. Step 2

   Season the seafood with salt and set it aside.

3. Step 3

   Lay out a paper towel under a rack to place the fried seafood on. 

4. Step 4

   Heat the oil to 370 F over medium to medium-high heat in a deep fryer or a deep, heavy pot. If possible, attach the thermometer to the side. 

5. Step 5

   Mix the baking soda, 1/8 teaspoon of salt, cornstarch, and rice flour or all-purpose flour in a bowl until they are fully incorporated.

6. Step 6

   Only when the oil is hot, whisk the egg yolk and the sparkling water together.

7. Step 7

   Pour the egg yolk mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients, mixing well. The consistency of the batter should be like melted ice cream.

8. Step 8

   Rapidly dip the seafood into the thin batter, shake it off a bit, and drop it into the oil. Do this in batches so the oil temperature does not drop too far. Do not crowd the pot.

9. Step 9

   Fry the seafood for 2 to 4 minutes, depending on the size. When you hear the roiling, popping, and sizzling subsiding, remove the seafood immediately.

10. Step 10

    Once the seafood is out of the oil, lay it on the rack to drain.

11. Step 11

    Check the oil temperature between batches. Fry subsequent batches.

12. Step 12

    Serve immediately with dipping sauce and enjoy.