National Tempura Day is celebrated on January 7 every year. It is always a great time to enjoy tempura, a delicious Japanese dish made from deep-frying vegetables, seafood, or other foods dipped in flour, eggs, and water. Tempura has been known for about 300 years. It was introduced by Portuguese living in Nagasaki in the 26th century but it has become a big part of Japanese culture and is available everywhere in Japan today. On National Tempura Day, you can eat tempura in several ways, including with dipping sauce or even try something more unique like tempura ice cream.
History of National Tempura Day
You might know some Japanese cuisines such as ramen, sushi, sashimi, and a host of others. But have you ever tried delectable tempura? Tempura is one of the delicious Japanese food which is popular in both Japan and around the world. Most people worldwide often think about tempura or sushi when they think of Japanese cuisine.
Tempura became famous in Japan after Portuguese missionaries introduced it during the 1600s. They brought a new method of deep-frying food to the Japanese city, Nagasaki, a port city at the time.
The original tempura was eaten during Lent, an annual Christian event where many Christian denominations are prohibited from consuming meat. The name ‘tempura’ was derived from the Latin word ‘ad temporal cuaresme,’ meaning “in the time of Lent.” The event was mistaken for the dish’s name, and tempura came to stay.
This method of deep-frying was not common and relatively new to Japan when it was introduced. However, the Japanese quickly adapted new techniques and skillfully made art out of it. Today, tempura has become a popular snack that accompanies meals at home and restaurants.
Originally, tempura was made up of minced meat in a ball shape, fish, and vegetables, but by the 1800s, Japanese chefs began frying whole fish and vegetables. This innovation made Tempura more popular and became a unique part of Japanese cuisine.
Over the years, the preparation and sales of tempura have become a significant part of Japanese cuisine. Through the transformation of tempura, the Japanese have shown how skillfully they adapted foreign dishes into something distinctly their own.
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| 1549 (Tempura Arrives in Japan) | The Portuguese missionaries introduced the first kind of tempura to Japan while they observed Lent. |
| 1671 (Modern Tempura Recipe) | The first publication of the modern tempura recipe in a book titled “Cook Menu.” |
| 1800 (Rebranding of Tempura) | The style of frying introduced by the Portuguese evolved to fit Japanese cuisine. |
| 2000 (Modern Tempura) | Modern chefs have unique ideas on tempura, and they don’t only use fish or vegetables. Almost anything goes into tempura these days. |
5 Interesting Facts About Tempura
Tempura Varieties: Shrimp and vegetables are the most common ingredients used for tempura but other variations also incorporate different proteins and even fruits. Some unique tempura items include soft-shell crab, lotus root, sweet potato, and even ice cream!
Cooking Technique: For frying tempura, the oil temperature is often maintained between 160-180°C (320-356°F). Keeping the precise temperature helps to preserve the natural flavours and textures of the ingredients which often include seafood such as shrimp and other various vegetables.
Serving Styles: You can enjoy tempura in several ways, like dipping sauce called tentsuyu, or simply sprinkled with salt. Similarly, it is also eaten with grated daikon which is used as a condiment rather than a palate cleanser. The coating tempura can vary depending on how it is served, for example, it might be lightly coated when it served on its own and more heavily when served over rice.
Culinary Significance: Tempura has become an important part of Japanese cuisine and is often found in restaurants called “tempura-ya.” It is not only famous in Japan but also has gained global popularity, appearing on menus around the world. Similarly, chefs take the cooking of tempura as an art form, emphasizing the importance of technique and ingredient selection.
Tempura Etiquette: The proper way of eating tempura is to dip the item into the tentsuyu sauce only once, as dipping repeatedly can make the tempura soggy. Similarly, it is also polite to eat the tempura in one bite, rather than breaking it apart with your hands or chopsticks.
Conclusion
National Tempura Day is a perfect day to enjoy one of Japan’s favourite dishes. Though it originated from Portuguese missionaries in the 16th century, tempura has become a significant part of Japanese cuisine. The cuisine is characterized by its light, crispy batter that enhances the natural flavours of seafood and vegetables.
This day not only showcases the rich history and cultural tempura. It also invites food lovers to explore its several range of variations, from shrimp and vegetable tempura to creative options like tempura ice cream. National Day invites everyone to appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship involved in the delightful dish whether it is prepared at home, dining at a restaurant or hosting a tempura-themed gathering. Embrace the flavours, textures, and culinary creativity that tempura represents, and enjoy the celebration of this crispy delicacy with friends and family.
Frequently Ask Question
What is National Tempura Day?
National Tempura Day is observed every year on January 7 to honour tempura, a Japanese dish made by deep-frying vegetables and seafood in a light batter.
When is National Tempura Day celebrated?
It is celebrated every year on January 7.
What is the origin of tempura?
In the 16th century, tempura was introduced to Japan by Portuguese missionaries and was originally served during Lent.
What does the name “tempura” mean?
The name “tempura” is derived from the Latin phrase “ad tempora cuaresme,” meaning “in the time of Lent.”
What are the main ingredients in tempura batter?
The main ingredients of classic tempura batter are cold water, cake flour, and eggs.
How can I celebrate National Tempura Day?
You can celebrate by making tempura at home, hosting a tempura party, or dining at a Japanese restaurant to enjoy tempura dishes.
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