‘Isobe’ means ‘Rocky Beachside’ in Japanese, and ‘Isobe-age’ is a type of Tempura made with the batter with a flavour of sea. Most commonly ‘Aonori’ (Dried Green Laver Flakes) is added to the batter, but it might be difficult to find. Finely crumbled Nori, Hijiki, Wakame, or other Seaweed can be used.


Makes

2 Servings

Ingredients

150g Chikuwa *OR Fish Balls

3 tablespoons Plain Flour
3 & 1/2 tablespoons Cold Water
1 to 2 teaspoons Aonori (Dried Green Laver Flakes) *OR finely crumbled Nori, Hijiki, Wakame, other Seaweed
Oil for frying

Method
  1. *Note: Chikuwa is a tube-shape Japanese fishcake. Made from Surimi (fish paste). Other ‘Surimi’ product such as Fish Balls are suitable for this dish. Today I used both.
  2. Cut Chikuwa into the size that is easy to eat. *Note: If you use frozen Chikuwa, thaw them first. I recommend to cut them in half lengthways because there might be excess water inside the hole and that could causes oil spattering.
  3. Make Tempura Batter by mixing Plain Flour, Water and Aonori.
  4. Heat about 2-3cm deep Oil to 180°C. Coat the Chikuwa pieces (OR Fish Balls) with the batter and fry until batter is light golden and crispy. Take them out and lay them on a rack or paper towel to drain the oil.