Asparagus Tempura

• cup yogurt↗1⁄4 cup
• tablespoons light mayonnaise↗2 tablespoons
• tablespoons Dijon mustard↗2 tablespoons
• tablespoon honey↗1 tablespoon
• cups vegetable oil↗4 cups
• cup flour↗3⁄4 cup
• cup cornstarch↗1⁄2 cup
• cup sesame seeds↗1⁄4 cup
• teaspoon salt↗3⁄4 teaspoon
• teaspoon baking soda↗1⁄2 teaspoon
• cup seltzer water, at room temperature↗1 cup
• lb asparagus↗1 lb

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   In a small bowl, stir together the yogurt, mayonnaise, mustard, and honey.

2. 2

   In a large saucepan, heat the oil over medium-high heat until the temperature registers 375 degrees on a deep-fry thermometer.

3. 3

   Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, sesame seeds, salt, and baking soda.

4. 4

   Whisk in the seltzer until smooth.

5. 5

   Add the asparagus to the batter and turn to coat with a pair of tongs.

6. 6

   Transferring one piece at a time, add about one-quarter of the asparagus to the hot oil and cook, turning, until golden and crisp, 1 1/2 - 2 minutes.

7. 7

   Drain on paper towels.

8. 8

   Repeat with the remaining asparagus, allowing the oil to return to 375 degrees between batches.

9. 9

   Serve hot with the dipping sauce.