Sparkling Water Tempura Batter

Instructions

1. 1

   Sift the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt into a large mixing bowl.

2. 2

   Place the mixing bowl inside a larger bowl filled with ice to keep the batter as cold as possible.

3. 3

   In a separate small container, lightly whisk the egg yolk and the optional vodka into the ice-cold sparkling water.

4. 4

   Pour the liquid mixture into the dry ingredients all at once.

5. 5

   Using chopsticks, stir the mixture very briefly for about 10-15 seconds; leave plenty of lumps in the batter.

6. 6

   Do not overmix, as developing gluten will make the tempura chewy rather than crispy.

7. 7

   Dust your vegetables or seafood in a light coating of dry flour before dipping into the batter.

8. 8

   Immediately drop the battered items into 350°F (175°C) oil and fry until pale golden and crisp.