noun Japanese Cooking. seafood or vegetables dipped in batter and deep-fried.

What does tempura mean?

Tempura Definition

Tempura refers to a variety of foods that have been lightly battered and fried, with the most common tempura dishes featuring seafood and vegetables.

Why is it called tempura?

This method of frying food was introduced in the 1600s by Portuguese missionaries. The original dish has disappeared, but it was a meal meant for Lent, when many Christian denominations are forbidden to eat meat. In fact, the name tempura comes from the Latin ad tempora cuaresme, which means 'in the time of Lent.