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prep time
5 min
cook time
15 min
ready time
20 min
Keto Vegetable Tempura
Vegetable tempura is one of the most popular delicious Japanese appetizers. Fresh crunchy veggies coated and fried until golden perfection. Paired with other Keto Japanese recipes, this version is a fantastic low-carb option for a crunchy and flavorful side-dish.
Is Japanese vegetables tempura Keto?
Any traditional tempura is not Keto because the batter consists mainly of wheat flour. However, this version is Keto-friendly because it is prepared with protein powder instead of flour. As long as you use low-carb veggies or lean protein like shrimp, you’re good to go.
Can you use any protein powder for this Keto recipe?
Unfortunately, no. While it may seem like most protein powders are low-carb, many contain a significant amount of carbohydrates to kick you off ketosis, especially if they’re flavored. But don’t throw in the towel yet, because many protein powder brands are suitable for a high-protein Keto diet. An excellent option for this recipe is unflavored whey protein isolate, containing 0g of carbs per serving.
What can you dip these veggies in?
You can dip these veggies in soy sauce or whip up a quick dressing by combining soy sauce, rice vinegar, mirin, and erythritol to balance out the flavors. Some great other options include peanut butter sauce, sesame dressing, and unagi sauce.
How can you customize this recipe?
Tempura is a batter that goes well with many ingredients when frying. We have used zucchini, eggplant, and red peppers, but the most common tempura-coated foods include shrimp, onions, asparagus, broccoli, cauliflower, and carrot. Feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients as long as they’re low-carb and Keto-friendly.
Disclaimer
The amount of oil listed is used for deep-frying, thus not all of it is absorbed into the veggies. The macros are an estimate to the amount of oil consumed.
Net Carbs
1.5 g
Fiber
0.9 g
Total Carbs
2.4 g
Protein
4.8 g
Fats
4.2 g
66 cals
#1 Low Carb & Keto Diet App Since 2010
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Ingredients
Zucchini
0.25 large
Eggplant, raw
0.25 medium
Red pepper
0.25 large - 3" diameter x 3 3/4"
Oil for Frying
0.5 cups
Protein Powder 100% Whey Protein Isolate
1 scoop
Baking powder
1 tsp
Baking Soda
0.5 tsp
Salt
0.5 tsp
Baking Aids Xanthan Gum
0.5 tsp
Dashi Powder Umami Broth
3 g
Raw egg, white
1 large
Raw egg
1 large
Sparkling water
4 tbsp
Scallions or spring onions, tops and bulb, raw
1 small - 3" long
Recipe Steps
steps 5
20 min
Step 1
Cut the zucchini into half circles, the eggplant into quarters, and the peppers into slices. You should have 36-40 veggies in total. Add the oil to a small saucepan and place it over medium heat. Bring it to 160-170 C / 320-340F and maintain that temperature.Step 2
To prepare the batter, add the protein powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt, xanthan gum, and dashi to a bowl. Whisk until combined, then add the egg, egg white, and sparkling water. Whisk until the batter is light and smooth.Step 3
Dip your veggies inside the batter and mix to coat. Using chopsticks, take one coated veggie out of the batter and into the oil. Dip and fry 5 at a time to maintain the oil’s heat.Step 4
Fry for 1-2 minutes until golden and crispy. Transfer to a plate lined with kitchen paper. Repeat with the remaining veggies.Step 5
Transfer the veggies to a bowl or serving platter. Garnish with chopped scallions. Serve immediately!