Tempura

Definition

A Japanese technique of light frying in a delicate, airy batter—the batter should be as thin and crispy as a whisper. It's elegant when done right and a grease bomb when done wrong.

Example Usage

The shrimp tempura arrived with a perfectly crispy, feather-light exterior.

Origin

Japanese, believed derived from Portuguese 'tempêro' (seasoning), introduced in the 16th century

Fun Fact

The key to great tempura is ice-cold batter and high heat—the temperature differential creates instant crispiness.

Source: Japanese culinary technique

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