Tempura Recipe (Lobster, Onion Rings)

Beer Batter

2 1/2 C flour
1 1/2 C Corn Starch
2 tsp garlic powder
2 tsp onion powder
approx 1/2 tsp white pepper or cayenne for a "hotter" bite
1 egg
approx 2 - 4 tsp salt (to taste)
12 - 36 oz beer.  Start with 12 - 24 depending on the consistency that you want. 
(I used 36 oz).  Thinner batter is like a tempura.  With 36 oz beer I achieved a
good consistency and it coated nicely.  It was great on the Lobster AND the
Onion rings!  I think it would be amazing on a variety of veggies and other fish.

1)  Prepare it at least 2 hrs before use.  This gives the herbs and such a chance
to penetrate and spread their flavor.  This will make a surprisingly large amount
of batter, so if you only have a little bit of food to fry, cut all of the measurements
in half.

2)  Mix the dry ingredients and set aside.

3)  Wisk the egg into the beer, being careful not to "foam" it up too much.

4)  Add the wet to the dry and mix well so there are no lumps.

5)  Let the mix sit until you are ready.  No need to refrigerate.

6)  Slice onion rings (I just used regular yellow) about 1/2 - 3/4 inch thick.  Separate them.
I chopped up the smaller centers for another dish.

7)  It is not necessary, but it will help if you coat the veggies in some dry flour.  This
helps the batter "stick" better.  I think ANY veggies would be great in this batter, but
guests commented that the onion rings were better than some restaurants.

8)  This was great on the Lobster medallions that were cut approx 1/2 inch thick.
      a)  The Lobster medallions were created by first separating the tail-meat from the shell.
      b)  Then slice the tail-meat approx 1/2 inch thick.

9)  Fry until golden (pretty sure the oil in my fryer was 375), turning once or twice in the oil,
and then set them out on a paper towel or paper bag.  Eat warm, while it's crispy!

Comments

[natalie]

Ah, now tempura brings me back!!! I remember we made tempura vegetables in high school home economics class!!! I love, love, love tempura but I don't think I've ever made it since!!! I might have to try!!! Looks delicious!!!