Every year, on the 7th of January, we joyfully celebrate National Tempura Day. This event is centered around paying tribute to the well-loved Japanese cuisine, Tempura. The dish manifests as a wide assortment of seafood and vegetables, all encased in a batter that is light and crispy.
This dish has won over hearts not just in its homeland, but in multiple countries across the world. Be it a gourmet enthusiast or someone who simply relishes good food, National Tempura Day offers a brilliant opportunity for everyone to savor this delicious dish.
History of National Tempura Day
Tempura is a universally loved Japanese dish that often includes lightly-fried seafood and vegetables in a delicate batter. In the United States, this culinary delight is honored annually on National Tempura Day, celebrated on January 7th.
The history of tempura can be linked back to the 16th century when the recipe was introduced to Nagasaki, a region in southern Japan, by Portuguese missionaries. The term ‘tempura’ has its roots in the Latin word ‘quatuor tempora’, which refers to the Ember Days, during which Catholics would traditionally abstain from eating meat and would opt for fish and vegetables.
Adopted by the Japanese, this dish was slowly transformed to its current version, known for its light, fluffy batter and special frying procedure.
Today, National Tempura Day is not only about savoring tempura at your favorite Japanese restaurant or home kitchen but also about understanding and experimenting with the array of ingredients and recipes that fall under the tempura umbrella. This event is a great opportunity for chefs, food enthusiasts, and culinary adventurers to show their appreciation for tempura and possibly, discover a new twist on this beloved dish.
National Tempura Day Timeline
Introduction of Fritters
The Portuguese introduced the concept of frying food in batter to Japan.
Development of Tempura
Japanese cooks began to modify the basic fritter recipe and tempura, as we know it today, was born.
Signature Dish of Japan
With the rise of nationalism, tempura became one of the signature dishes of Japan.
Tempura Restaurants in Japan
Specialized tempura restaurants started to become popular in Japan, serving a variety of tempura dishes.
Tempura Introduced to West
Japanese cuisine started gaining popularity in the west, and tempura was introduced to western cuisine.
Global Popularity of Tempura
Tempura is widely recognized as a staple of Japanese cuisine and is enjoyed globally.
Ideas to Celebrate National Tempura Day
Host a Tempura Tasting Party
Gather your close ones for an evening of tempura exploration. Create a variety-filled spread featuring the classic prawn tempura, alongside the sweet notes of sweet potato tempura, and for a twist, include vegetable tempuras like broccoli or asparagus. Don't omit a variety of delicious dipping sauces that will enhance the experience.
Explore Local Japanese Restaurants
Celebrate the day by paying a visit to the local Japanese culinary joints in your vicinity, and savour their tempura offerings. This way, you get to commemorate National Tempura Day and bolster local establishments simultaneously.
Tempura Cooking Class
If circumstances permit, consider enrolling in a tempura-focused culinary class to hone your cooking skills. This opportunity not only enhances your familiarity with tempura but also facilitates interaction with fellow enthusiasts.
Social Media Tempura Challenge
Kickstart a spirited tempura cooking contest on your social media. The idea is to invite your online pals to engage in a friendly competition where they either create their own tempura or locate the finest restaurant serving tempura. Use a custom hashtag to keep track of all the fun.
6 Interesting Facts About Tempura
Tempura's Origin
Despite its association with Japan, Tempura did not originate in this country. The technique of battering and deep frying food was brought to Japan by Portuguese missionaries during the 16th century.
Connection to Religion
The term 'Tempura' likely derives from the Latin 'Tempora', a reference to 'The Ember Days', a period during which Catholics would abstain from eating meat. During these days, the Portuguese missionaries would often consume fried fish or vegetables.
Eaten as a Fast Food
In Japan, tempura is often eaten as a quick meal. Numerous 'Tempura-ya', or tempura shops, are found across the country serving this delicious fried dish.
Seasoning Styles
There are various ways to serve and eat tempura. It can be dipped in sauce, seasoned with salt, or even served on a bed of rice with sauce drizzled over it.
Crispy Tempura
Authentic tempura needs to be crispy. To avoid it becoming mushy, it's traditionally served fresh from the fryer.
Pronunciation
The correct way to pronounce tempura in Japanese is 'ten-poo-rah'.
National Tempura Day FAQs
Next National Tempura Day Dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | January 7th | Saturday |
| 2024 | January 7th | Sunday |
| 2025 | January 7th | Tuesday |
| 2026 | January 7th | Wednesday |
| 2027 | January 7th | Thursday |
| What is the pattern? | Every January 7th | |
National Tempura Day Word Search
- Tempura
- Japan
- Shrimp
- Seafood
- Delicious
- Cuisine