National Tempura Day, celebrated on January 7, is a day to honor the beloved Japanese dish that features light, crispy bites of seafood and vegetables. Known for its delicate batter and satisfying crunch, tempura has become a staple in Japanese cuisine, though it wasn’t originally from Japan. This day celebrates not only the artistry and flavor of tempura but also its unique journey from Europe to Japan, where it was transformed into the iconic dish we enjoy today.

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What is Tempura?

Tempura typically consists of shrimp, fish, or vegetables dipped in a thin, cold batter made of flour, egg, and water, then quickly deep-fried to perfection. The result is a light, golden crust that enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients. Popular tempura vegetables include sweet potato, eggplant, and mushrooms, while seafood tempura often includes shrimp and fish. Tempura is usually served with a light dipping sauce or seasoned salt, allowing the delicate flavors and textures to shine.

National Tempura Day celebrated on January 7th
National Tempura Day celebrated on January 7th

A Portuguese Influence or How Japan Made Tempura Its Own

Though now recognized as a classic Japanese dish, tempura’s origins actually trace back to 16th-century Portugal. During this time, Portuguese missionaries and traders reached Japan through the port of Nagasaki, bringing with them Western culinary methods, including the technique of coating foods in batter before frying. The dish that inspired tempura was called Peixinhos da Horta, which consisted of fried green beans in batter, resembling tiny fish. This fried dish quickly became popular in Japan and adapted to local tastes and ingredients.

The term “tempura” comes from the Latin phrase ad tempora quadragesimae, meaning “in the time of Lent.” Lent, a religious period in the Christian calendar, required abstinence from meat, prompting Portuguese Christians to enjoy fried vegetables and fish instead. The Japanese interpreted “tempora” as the name of the dish itself, and with seafood abundant in Japan’s waters, the fried preparation found a perfect fit in Japanese cuisine.

In Japan, tempura evolved into something distinctly Japanese. Initially, tempura was enjoyed as small, fried pieces of minced meat and vegetables. Over time, Japanese chefs began frying whole pieces of vegetables and seafood, creating the crisp, natural-tasting bites that define tempura today. This culinary evolution also turned tempura from a light snack into a main dish, embodying Japan’s tradition of preserving ingredients’ natural flavors.

When Is National Tempura Day Celebrated?

National Tempura Day is observed every year on January 7th, making it the perfect time to enjoy this crispy favorite. If you’re planning to cook tempura at home or visit a Japanese restaurant, it’s helpful to know the upcoming dates. Below is a list of when National Tempura Day will be celebrated in the coming years to help you prepare.

YearDate
2024January 7, Sunday
2025January 7, Tuesday
2026January 7, Wednesday
2027January 7, Thursday
2028January 7, Friday
2029January 7, Sunday
2030January 7, Monday
January 7th is when we celebrate National Tempura Day.
National Tempura Day on January 7th

Fun Facts About Tempura

Tempura may seem like a simple dish, but its origins, preparation techniques, and cultural significance offer much to explore. From its surprising history to the secrets behind achieving that perfect crunch, here are some fascinating facts about tempura that will give you a deeper appreciation for this crispy favorite.

  • Tempura’s origin traces back to Portuguese missionaries in the 1500s, who introduced the concept of batter-frying to Japan. Over time, it evolved into the distinctly Japanese dish we know and love today.
  • Traditionally, tempura was prepared using seasonal seafood and vegetables, reflecting the importance of freshness and highlighting regional specialties.
  • To achieve the perfect light and crispy texture, chefs often use ice-cold water in the batter. This technique prevents the gluten from developing too much, resulting in a lighter, crunchier coating.
  • During the Edo period (1603-1868), tempura became a popular street food in Japan. It was cooked fresh and served hot, making it a fast yet sophisticated dish enjoyed by people on the go.
  • A Shogun’s Obsession with Tempura: One famous story in Japanese history recounts how Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate, was said to have been so fond of tempura that he reportedly died from eating too much of it. Although likely an exaggeration, this tale highlights tempura’s popularity in Japan.
National Tempura Day, January 7

Ways to Celebrate National Tempura Day

On National Tempura Day, consider celebrating by visiting a Japanese restaurant or trying your hand at making tempura at home. All you need is a simple batter, fresh ingredients, and hot oil for frying. Remember to keep the batter cold, as this is the secret to achieving the delicate, crispy texture that makes tempura so beloved.

  • Try making tempura at home for a fun cooking experience. All you need are basic ingredients like flour, eggs, and cold water, plus shrimp, fish, or vegetables like sweet potatoes and mushrooms.
  • If you’d rather not cook, visit a Japanese restaurant and order a tempura platter. This is an easy way to try different kinds and enjoy the dish without the effort.
  • You can also try different dipping sauces to go with your tempura. Soy sauce with grated radish, ponzu (a citrus sauce), or something spicy can add more flavor.
  • For a fun group activity, host a tempura dinner party. Everyone can bring ingredients, and you can make tempura together and enjoy it fresh.

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Last Update: January 4, 2025