Prawn tempura

Ingredients

For the batter
75g/2½oz cornflour
75g/2½oz plain flour
1 free-range egg, lightly beaten
188ml/6½fl oz beer
For the prawn tempura
vegetable oil, for deep-frying
50g/2oz plain flour
1.5kg/3lb 5oz uncooked king prawns, shells and central veins removed
soy sauce, to serve

Method

1. For the batter, sift the cornflour and flour together into a medium bowl.
2. Make a well in the centre and add the egg and beer and whisk from the centre outwards, until just combined (it is okay if the batter is a little lumpy). Allow the batter to stand for a few minutes in a cool place.
3. Heat the oil in a deep heavy-bottomed pan until a breadcrumb sizzles and turns brown when dropped into it. (CAUTION: hot oil can be dangerous. Do not leave unattended.)
4. Place the flour onto a plate and dredge the prawns into it to cover well. Dip the prawns into the batter and carefully add to the hot oil to deep-fry in batches for 2-3 minutes, or until crisp and golden.
5. Carefully remove with a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper.
6. Serve in bowls with a bowl of soy sauce for dipping.