# 天ぷら (Tempura)

## Description:
天ぷら (Tempura) is a popular Japanese cooking technique where vegetables, seafood, or thin cuts of meat are coated in a light batter and deep-fried until crispy. This dish is known for its delicate texture and vibrant flavors, often served with a sweet and savory dipping sauce.

## Instructions:
1. **Prepare the ingredients**: Cut vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, potatoes, and green beans) into bite-sized pieces. Cut seafood (like shrimp, squid, or crab) into thin slices. Beat 2 large eggs in a bowl and set aside. Combine 1 cup (125g) of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 cup (120ml) of cold water in another bowl to make the batter. Mix until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps.
2. **Heat the oil**: Fill a deep pan or pot with 3-4 inches of vegetable oil and heat it to 350°F (175°C). You can use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature.
3. **Coat the ingredients**: Dip each piece of vegetable or seafood into the beaten eggs, allowing the excess to drip off. Then, coat them evenly in the batter, making sure all surfaces are covered.
4. **Fry the tempura**: Carefully place the coated ingredients into the hot oil in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Turn them over once to ensure even cooking. Remove from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
5. **Serve**: Place the tempura on a serving plate and serve immediately with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as a mix of soy sauce, lemon juice, and wasabi.

## Allergens:
- Eggs
- Wheat (from flour)
- Seafood (if using)
- Soy (soy sauce)

## Cooking Time:
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 5-7 minutes (depending on the batch size)
- Total: Approximately 20-25 minutes

## Substitutes:
- **Flour**: If wheat flour is not available, you can use a gluten-free alternative like rice flour or a blend of potato starch and cornstarch.
- **Dipping Sauce**: Instead of the traditional soy sauce-based sauce, you can opt for a simpler lemon-dill yogurt sauce or a spicy aioli for a twist.
- **Seafood**: For those who do not consume seafood, you can substitute it with tofu or tempeh cut into thin strips.
- **Vegetables**: Feel free to experiment with a variety of vegetables like cauliflower, mushrooms, or even fruits like banana slices for a sweet tempura variation.