National Tempura Day

A person delicately dipping a variety of colorful, crispy tempura into a savory dipping sauce, surrounded by a serene Japanese garden.. — National tempura day illustration

Hey there, food lovers! Get ready to indulge your taste buds because National Tempura Day is here to satisfy your cravings and make you forget all about those pesky New Year resolutions. So, grab your chopsticks and prepare to dive into a crispy and delicious world of tempura!

When is Tempura Day?

It's national tempura day on the 7th January.

The Crispy Origins of Tempura

Tempura is a culinary delight that originated in Japan. This mouthwatering dish consists of battered and deep-fried seafood or vegetables, resulting in a crispy and golden exterior with a juicy and tender interior. The precise origin of tempura is still debated, but it is commonly believed to have been introduced to Japan by Portuguese missionaries in the 16th century.

The word 'tempura' is derived from the Latin word 'tempora,' meaning 'Ember Days' or 'times of fasting.' The Portuguese brought the concept of fasting and abstaining from meat to Japan, and the Japanese soon adapted it to their own traditions, creating the culinary masterpiece we now know as tempura.

A National Day Worth Celebrating

On January 7th, we celebrate National Tempura Day to honor this delectable dish and the joy it brings to our taste buds. Whether you're a seafood enthusiast, a vegetable lover, or simply someone who appreciates the art of frying, this day is for you.

What better way to celebrate National Tempura Day than by gathering your loved ones and heading to your favorite Japanese restaurant? Enjoy a plate of crispy tempura shrimp, perfectly cooked vegetables, and a side of tangy dipping sauce. If you prefer to stay in, why not try your hand at making tempura yourself? It's not as difficult as it might seem, and the reward is oh-so-worth it!

Fun Fact About Tempura

Did you know that tempura was initially considered a street food in Japan? It was common to see vendors selling tempura from portable carts, enticing passersby with the irresistible aroma of frying batter. Tempura's popularity eventually led to the creation of dedicated tempura specialty restaurants, where chefs refined the art of tempura-making to perfection.

History behind the term 'Tempura'

16th century

The Portuguese pioneers

During the 16th century, Portuguese missionaries were spreading Christianity in Nagasaki, Japan. They brought with them a unique way of frying food, which later evolved into what we now know as tempura. This technique involved dipping ingredients in a batter made of flour, eggs, and water before frying them in oil.

17th century

The influence of the Jesuits

In the 17th century, the Jesuit missionaries further developed the cooking method introduced by the Portuguese. They started using local Japanese ingredients such as seafood and vegetables in their fried dishes. This integration of local flavors and cooking techniques contributed to the evolution of tempura into a distinct Japanese culinary tradition.

19th century

Tempura gains popularity

Tempura gained popularity during the 19th century in Japan. It became a widely enjoyed dish, especially in the coastal regions where fresh seafood was abundant. The Japanese started perfecting the art of tempura, carefully selecting ingredients and refining the batter's texture and flavor. The crispy, light, and delicate nature of tempura made it a beloved dish among the Japanese people.

20th century

International recognition

In the 20th century, Japanese cuisine started gaining international recognition. As Japanese restaurants spread across the globe, tempura became one of the iconic dishes representing Japanese gastronomy. The crispy and visually appealing tempura, often served with dipping sauces, captivated the taste buds of people worldwide. Tempura became synonymous with Japanese cuisine and an integral part of Japanese culinary heritage.