RECIPE

Crisp Sage Tempura

• Recipe by Govind Armstrong

Poppy-studded batter makes a light and pleasantly crunchy coating for pungent, addictive sage leaves.

• Make-Ahead
• Vegetarian

Ingredients

1. 1/2 cup rice flour (see Note)
2. 1 1/2 teaspoons poppy seeds
3. Salt
4. 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
5. 1/2 cup cold club soda
6. 1 tablespoon cold water
7. Vegetable oil, for frying
8. 1 bunch of sage (about 24 leaves), stems trimmed to 1/4 inch

Directions

1. In a medium bowl, mix the rice flour with the poppy seeds, 1/2 teaspoon salt and the pepper. Whisk in the club soda and cold water. Let the batter rest for 20 minutes.
2. Heat 1/2 inch of oil in a small skillet just until shimmering. Holding each sage leaf by the stem, dip it into the batter to coat both sides. Add to the oil and fry over moderately high heat until lightly golden, about 30 seconds. Drain on paper towels and sprinkle lightly with salt. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Make Ahead

The fried sage leaves can be stored in an airtight container overnight.

Notes

Rice flour is available at Asian markets and health food stores.