Tempura, the classic Japanese dish of lightly battered and fried vegetables and seafood, reflects all the essential qualities of Japanese cooking using the freshest ingredients and paying close attention to the details and techniques employed. The best tempura is light, crispy, and not greasy. Making it is really not that complicated and is best done as a group activity, so rally the troops. Round up a few hands to cut vegetables while you dip and fry. You'll be an expert at making tempura in no time. From the Take-Out Menu Cookbook.