To prevent battered (tempura) goods from sticking to the deep frying pan, follow these tips:
Use the right temperature: Make sure the oil in the deep frying pan reaches the correct temperature before adding the battered goods. The ideal temperature for deep-frying tempura is around 350-375°F (175-190°C). Using an oil or candy thermometer can help you maintain the right temperature.
Choose the right oil: Use oils with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil, for deep frying. These oils can withstand high temperatures without breaking down and smoking, which could affect the flavor of the tempura and cause sticking.
Maintain consistent oil temperature: As you add the battered goods to the pan, the oil temperature may drop slightly. Try to maintain a relatively consistent oil temperature throughout the frying process by adjusting the heat as needed.
Use a deep-fry thermometer: If possible, use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the oil temperature continuously. This helps to ensure that the oil stays within the optimal range for frying tempura, reducing the chances of sticking.
Avoid overcrowding the pan: Fry only a few pieces of battered goods at a time to prevent overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding can cause the oil temperature to drop too much and result in uneven cooking and sticking.
Shake off excess batter: Before adding the battered goods to the deep frying pan, shake off any excess batter. Too much batter can create thick and uneven coatings, which may lead to sticking.
Use a slotted spoon or spider strainer: When removing the tempura from the oil, use a slotted spoon or a spider strainer. This allows excess oil to drain off the tempura, reducing the chance of them sticking to each other or the pan.
Fry lighter items first: If you're frying a variety of battered goods, start with the lighter items first. This way, any loose bits of batter or residue in the oil won't cling to the subsequent batches of tempura.
Clean the pan between batches: After each batch, remove any leftover bits of batter or debris from the oil to maintain its quality and prevent sticking.
By following these tips, you can achieve perfectly crispy and non-stick tempura when deep frying.