Tropical Tempura Tenders

The art of tempura has been cherished and refined over centuries. Originating from Japan, tempura refers to seafood or vegetables that have been lightly battered and deep-fried to achieve a delicately light and crispy texture. The word "tempura" itself is believed to have been derived from the Latin word "tempora", which means "times" or "period", and refers to the times of fasting when eating meat was not permitted by the church. Spanish and Portuguese missionaries and traders are credited with introducing the idea to the Japanese in the 16th century. Over the years, this culinary technique has been adapted and embraced in various cultures and cuisines worldwide.

Our Tropical Tempura Tenders bring a modern twist to this classic dish by infusing vibrant island flavors. Combining the sweetness of tropical fruits with the savory and crispy elements of traditional tempura provides a taste sensation that transports you to sun-kissed shores. These tempura tenders are perfect for a summery main course or an exotic appetizer that pairs perfectly with fruity cocktails or a chilled white wine, creating an irresistible culinary experience.

Ingredients

• Chicken breast (500g)
• Pineapple (1 ripe, diced)
• Mango (1 ripe, sliced)
• Banana (1, sliced)
• Rice flour (1 cup)
• Cornstarch (1 cup)
• Baking powder (1 teaspoon)
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
• Sparkling water (1 cup)
• Coconut oil (for frying)
• Lime (1, juiced)
• Coconut flakes (1/2 cup, for garnish)
• Cilantro (a handful, chopped)

Preparation Steps

1. Start by preparing the chicken breast. Cut them into tender-sized strips ensuring each piece is uniform for even cooking.
2. In a bowl, mix the diced pineapple, sliced mango, and banana. Drizzle with freshly squeezed lime juice and gently toss to combine. Set this tropical fruit medley aside.
3. In a separate bowl, combine rice flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt to prepare the tempura batter. Whisk together.
4. Gradually add sparkling water to the dry ingredients, whisking until the batter is smooth but slightly thicker than pancake batter.

Cooking Process

1. Fill a pan or deep fryer with coconut oil to a depth that will allow the tenders to be submerged. Heat the oil to about 180°C (350°F). Monitor the cooking time to ensure tender, juicy bites.
2. Once the oil is hot, dip each cut of chicken into the tempura batter, allowing excess to drip off before carefully lowering it into the oil. Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding.
3. Fry the tenders until they are golden brown and crispy, which should take about 3-4 minutes, depending on size. Use a slotted spoon to carefully remove them from the oil, placing them onto a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
4. For the tropical twist, briefly fry the prepared fruit medley to enhance their flavors and to provide a hint of crisp texture. Fry the fruits in batches and remove them in 1-2 minutes or until just lightly browned.

It's advisable to use a cooking timer during this process to ensure each element of the meal is cooked to perfection.

Serving Suggestions

Arrange the Tropical Tempura Tenders on a platter, surrounded by the crisped tropical fruits. Sprinkle with coconut flakes and chopped cilantro for an added touch of freshness. Serve immediately while the tempura is still crunchy.

These delicious tenders can be enjoyed on their own as a main course or accompanied by a light salad and a dipping sauce of your choice. For a more immersive culinary experience, pair them with a coconut milk-based dip or a spicy-sweet chili sauce to accentuate the flavors.

The Joy of Tropical Tempura Tenders

Engaging all your senses, the lavish colors and fragrant aromas of this dish bring a sense of adventure with each bite. A perfect addition to any gathering, Tropical Tempura Tenders blend the elegance of Japanese cuisine with the vibrant flavors of the tropics, creating a fusion that's sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you yearning for more tropical culinary escapades.