Crispy Tempura Tendon

Name: Crispy Tempura Tendon
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 12 large shrimps; assorted vegetables; 1 cup tempura batter mix; 1 cup ice cold water; cooking oil; steamed Japanese short-grain rice; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup mirin; 2 tbsp sake; 2 tbsp sugar; 1 cup dashi; 2 tbsp cornstarch

Fried shrimp in white dish with chopsticks, crispy Tempura Tendon.

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Tempura Tendon is a mouthwatering Japanese dish that combines the light and crispy perfection of tempura with a hearty bowl of rice and savory sauce. It’s a harmonious marriage of textures and flavors that delights the senses. In this culinary journey, we will uncover the secrets of making the perfect Tempura Tendon. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to create a meal that’s as delicious as it is visually stunning.

Crispy Tempura Tendon is a delightful Japanese dish with a history dating back to the Edo period in Japan (17th to 19th centuries). The term “tendon” is derived from two words: “ten” for tempura and “don” for donburi, which means a bowl of rice. Tempura is a Japanese cooking technique introduced by Portuguese missionaries in the 16th century, and it involves batter-frying seafood and vegetables to create a light, crispy texture.

The concept of combining tempura with a bowl of rice and savory sauce gained popularity in Tokyo’s tempura shops during the Edo period. This hearty and satisfying dish became known as Tempura Tendon and has since evolved into various regional styles and flavor profiles.

Today, Crispy Tempura Tendon is enjoyed worldwide, offering a delightful mix of crispy tempura, steamed rice, and a flavorful sauce. It’s a testament to the artistry of Japanese cuisine and the harmonious blend of textures and flavors.

Tempura Tendon is a beloved dish in Japan, and it's easy to understand why. It features a crispy and light tempura batter that coats an assortment of ingredients such as shrimp, vegetables, and seafood. This tempura ensemble is artfully arranged over a bowl of steamed rice and drizzled with a savory, umami-rich sauce. The result is a dish that offers a delightful contrast of textures and an explosion of flavors in every bite.

Tools and Equipment

Deep-fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot: Buy On Amazon / Buy On Amazon
Thermometer: Buy On Amazon
Slotted spoon or mesh strainer: Buy On Amazon / Buy On Amazon
Mixing bowls: Buy On Amazon
Whisk: Buy On Amazon
Paper towels: Buy On Amazon
Serving bowls: Buy On Amazon

Author: Anna Cooking Method: Deep-frying Cuisine: Japanese Courses: Dinner, Non-Veg

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Prep Time 30 mins Cook Time 20 mins Total Time 50 mins Difficulty: Intermediate Servings: 4 Calories: 204.12 Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Tempura Ingredients: Clean and peel the shrimp, trim the vegetables, and cut the seafood into manageable pieces.
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Make the Tempura Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the tempura batter mix and ice-cold water. Stir gently until just combined; it's okay if there are lumps.
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Heat the Oil: In a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot, heat the cooking oil to 340-350°F (170-180°C).
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Dip and Fry: Dip the prepared ingredients into the tempura batter, allowing any excess batter to drip off. Carefully place them into the hot oil and fry until golden and crispy. Use a slotted spoon or mesh strainer to remove them and place them on paper towels to drain.
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Make the Tempura Sauce: In a saucepan, combine soy sauce, mirin, sake, sugar, and dashi. Simmer over low heat until the sugar dissolves. In a separate small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Gradually add the slurry to the saucepan to thicken the sauce.
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Assemble the Tendon: In individual serving bowls, place a portion of steamed rice. Arrange the freshly fried tempura on top.
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Drizzle with Sauce: Generously drizzle the tempura sauce over the tempura and rice.
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Serve and Enjoy: Your Crispy Tempura Tendon is ready to be savored. Serve immediately.
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Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 204.12kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 0.27g1%
Saturated Fat 0.09g1%
Cholesterol 29.73mg10%
Sodium 1138.22mg48%
Potassium 117.17mg4%
Total Carbohydrate 41.9g14%
Dietary Fiber 0.87g4%
Sugars 11.34g
Protein 7.13g15%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Please note that the nutritional values provided are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. It's always best to double-check with your specific ingredients and measurements for accurate nutritional information.

Note

Tips and Variations:

Experiment with different tempura ingredients, such as sweet potato, eggplant, or mushrooms.
Try different dipping sauces or add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

Enjoy Tendon as a satisfying and complete meal on its own.
Pair with a side of miso soup and pickled vegetables for a traditional Japanese meal.

Allergen Information:

Here's some allergen information to consider for Crispy Tempura Tendon:

Wheat Allergy: Tempura batter is typically made with wheat flour. If you have a wheat allergy, you should look for wheat-free tempura batter recipes or pre-made gluten-free tempura batter.
Seafood Allergy: Tempura often includes seafood like shrimp and fish. Those with seafood allergies should avoid these ingredients or opt for vegetarian tempura alternatives.

Wine or Drink Pairing:

While Crispy Tempura Tendon is often enjoyed with tea or water, here are some beverage options to complement this dish:

Green Tea: A classic choice, green tea's earthy and slightly bitter notes can help balance the richness of the tempura and provide a refreshing palate cleanse.
Japanese Beer: A light and crisp Japanese lager or pilsner pairs well with the fried tempura, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a wedge of lemon or lime adds a touch of effervescence and acidity.

Storage and Leftovers:

Tempura is at its best when freshly cooked and served. However, if you have leftovers, here's how to handle them:

Tempura: Leftover tempura tends to lose its crispiness when refrigerated. To reheat, use an oven or toaster oven to help restore some of its crunchiness. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the tempura soggy.
Sauce: The sauce can be refrigerated for a short period, but it's best to consume it fresh. If reheating, do so gently over low heat to avoid scorching.
Rice: Rice can be refrigerated and reheated, but it may lose some of its texture. Consider using a microwave or stovetop to reheat it, and add a little moisture to prevent it from becoming too dry.

Keywords: Tendon, Tempura Donburi, Japanese Cuisine, Crispy Tempura, Rice Bowl

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is Crispy Tempura Tendon?

Crispy Tempura Tendon is a Japanese dish featuring deep-fried tempura shrimp and assorted vegetables served over a bed of steamed Japanese short-grain rice. It’s drizzled with a flavorful tempura sauce made from soy sauce, mirin, sake, and dashi. This dish offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making it a popular choice for tempura lovers.

What types of vegetables can I use in tempura?

You can use a variety of vegetables for tempura, including sweet potatoes, bell peppers, eggplant, zucchini, broccoli, and green beans. The key is to choose vegetables that are firm and hold up well when fried. Cut them into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking and create a visually appealing presentation.

Can I make tempura batter from scratch?

Yes, you can make tempura batter from scratch using a mixture of flour, cornstarch, and ice-cold water. Combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1/4 cup of cornstarch and add enough ice-cold water to achieve a thin consistency. The batter should be slightly lumpy for the best texture when frying.

How do I keep tempura crispy after frying?

To keep tempura crispy after frying, place the cooked pieces on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil immediately. Avoid stacking them on top of each other, as this can trap moisture. Serve the tempura right away for the best texture, and consider reheating in an oven if you have leftovers.

What can I use instead of dashi in the tempura sauce?

If you don't have dashi, you can substitute it with vegetable broth or chicken broth for a different flavor profile. You can also make a simple homemade dashi by simmering dried seaweed (kombu) and bonito flakes in water. This will provide a similar umami flavor to your tempura sauce.

Can I prepare the tempura sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tempura sauce ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days. When ready to use, gently reheat it over low heat to prevent scorching, adding a little water if it thickens too much. Fresh sauce is ideal, but stored sauce is still flavorful.

What type of rice is best for serving with tempura?

For serving with tempura, Japanese short-grain rice is the best choice, as it has a sticky texture that pairs well with the dish. This type of rice absorbs flavors nicely and provides a great base for the crispy tempura. You can cook the rice in a rice cooker or on the stovetop for perfectly fluffy grains.

Crispy Tempura Tendon

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