Air-Fried Tempura Veggies: A Healthy, Crispy Treat

Tempura is a popular Japanese dish that can be made with seafood, meat, or vegetables. Traditionally, tempura is deep-fried, but it can also be made in an air fryer for a healthier alternative. Making tempura in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get crispy and tasty results without the added oil of deep frying. This method is also a great way to get your tempura fix without the fuss of following a complex recipe.

Choosing your vegetables

You can also experiment with other vegetables such as green beans, asparagus, onions, avocados, and carrots. Just remember to cut your vegetables into bite-sized pieces or thin slices, especially if you are using root vegetables like sweet potatoes or lotus roots. The key is to ensure that your vegetables cook evenly and thoroughly without burning or becoming too soft.

Additionally, you can get creative and use different seasonings and dips to enhance the flavour of your tempura vegetables. For example, try curry powder and peanut sauce with bell peppers, or ground ginger and wasabi sauce with green beans.

So, go ahead and choose your favourite vegetables, cut them into the right size, and get ready to fry! With the right ingredients and some creativity, you can make delicious and crispy tempura vegetables in your air fryer.

Preparing the wet batter

In a bowl, start by mixing the water with the mayonnaise, if using. Then, add in the eggs and whisk until well combined. Next, gradually add in the flour, along with any seasoning you wish to include, such as salt and pepper, and whisk until a batter forms. It is important not to overmix the batter, as this can affect the texture of your final product. The batter should be lumpy, and it is normal for it to have a thin consistency.

Once your batter is ready, you can start dipping your chosen vegetables. Ensure that they are cut into bite-sized pieces or slices, patted dry, and ready for coating. Dip each vegetable piece into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off before moving on to the next step.

Dipping the vegetables

Firstly, prepare your vegetables of choice. Popular options include bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, broccoli, mushrooms, green beans, asparagus, onions, avocados, and sweet potatoes. Cut these vegetables into bite-sized pieces or slices. It is important to ensure that the vegetables are dry before proceeding to the next step. Use paper towels or a kitchen towel to pat them dry.

Next, prepare three separate shallow dishes for the dipping process. In the first dish, combine dry ingredients such as flour, salt, and black pepper. You can also add seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, shiso leaves, or fresh herbs to this mixture. The second dish should contain a wet mixture of eggs and water, whisked together. For an extra crispy texture, you can substitute Japanese mayonnaise for the eggs. Finally, the third dish should contain breadcrumbs, preferably panko, mixed with a small amount of oil.

Now you are ready to start dipping! Begin by coating the vegetables in the dry flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Then, dip them into the wet egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the vegetables in the breadcrumb mixture. This three-step process will result in a delicious, crispy coating on your vegetables.

Once all your vegetables are coated, it's time to cook them in the air fryer. Preheat your air fryer to around 350-400°F (175-200°C). Place the coated vegetables into the air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the basket. You may need to cook the vegetables in batches. Lightly spray the vegetables with oil or cooking spray to promote even browning and crispiness.

Cook the vegetables for approximately 7-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown. For best results, shake or flip the vegetables halfway through the cooking process.

Once they are cooked to perfection, remove them from the air fryer and sprinkle with additional salt or your preferred seasoning. Serve immediately to enjoy the crispy texture.

Your tempura vegetables can be enjoyed on their own, with rice, or in a wrap. They pair perfectly with various dipping sauces, including classic soy sauce, spicy mayo, sweet and sour sauce, teriyaki sauce, or honey garlic sauce. For a lighter option, a simple dip made of lemon juice and olive oil is also delightful.

Air-frying the tempura

Step 1: Prepare the Wet Batter

Begin by cutting your chosen vegetables into bite-sized pieces or thin slices, depending on the vegetable. Blot the vegetables with a paper towel to ensure they are dry. In a shallow dish, mix the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper. You can also add in other seasonings like garlic powder or onion powder. In a separate large bowl, whisk together eggs and water to form an egg wash. For an extra crispy coating, you can also prepare a third shallow dish with panko breadcrumbs and oil.

Step 2: Coat the Vegetables

Dip the vegetable pieces into the flour mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Then, dip them into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat them with the panko and oil mixture if using. This step will give your tempura an extra crispy texture.

Step 3: Air Fry the Tempura

Preheat your air fryer to around 350-400°F (175-200°C). Place the coated vegetables into the air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the basket. Cook the vegetables for 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

Step 4: Serve

Remove the vegetables from the air fryer and sprinkle with additional salt or your desired seasoning. Serve immediately while they are still crispy. You can also serve the tempura vegetables with a dipping sauce such as soy sauce, spicy mayo, or sweet and sour sauce. Enjoy!

Tips for Success:

• Use a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, asparagus, onions, avocado, and green beans.
• Keep your batter cold by using ice water to help achieve a light and crispy texture.
• Don't overcoat the vegetables—a light coating is enough to ensure crispiness.
• Preheat your air fryer and shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even crisping.
• Experiment with different seasonings and dipping sauces to find your favorite combinations.

Serving suggestions

Tempura vegetables made in an air fryer can be served as an appetizer, a side dish, or even as a main course. They can be served with a variety of dipping sauces, such as tentsuyu, classic soy sauce, spicy mayo, teriyaki sauce, honey garlic sauce, or a simple mix of soy sauce and mirin. For a lighter option, a dip made of lemon juice and olive oil can be served alongside. If you want something spicier, Japanese mayonnaise or chili-garlic paste are excellent choices.

Tempura vegetables can also be served on their own, over rice, or in a wrap with some greens and a drizzle of sauce. They can be served with a light salad or rice as a main course, or with steamed vegetables like broccoli or carrots for extra fiber. Top with black sesame seeds, chopped scallions, or grated daikon radish to complete the meal.

Frequently asked questions