Xao Toi, or tempura as it is sometimes known, is a traditional Japanese food that is quite similar to fritters or crisps. It is made of finely chopped pieces of vegetables that are deep fried and served hot with a dip or soy sauce. Xao Toi is usually served as an accompaniment to a main course such as soba or udon noodles, but it can also be enjoyed on its own.
Origins Of Xao Toi
Xao Toi is thought to have originated in the city of Nagasaki and subsequently made its way to Osaka. It first appeared on the menus of well-known restaurants in the 20th century. In recent years, home chefs have taken up the challenge of recreating this delightful food.
While authentic Xao Toi can be difficult to find, it is possible to capture the essence of this beloved food with simple yet delectable recipes like this one. Made with Japanese eggplant, onions, and tofu, this vegan dish is a great alternative to those who are unable to eat gluten or wheat products.
How Is Xao Toi Made?
The process of making Xao Toi is very similar to making tempura. First, take the time to clean the vegetables well. Cut the eggplant and onion slices into small cubes or rounds and dry them with paper towels. The cubes should be about the same size as the fried food you are preparing.
Next, take the dried vegetables and mix them with the other ingredients to form a rough dough. Season with the salt and pepper and set aside. When you are ready to cook the dish, pour the oil into a wok or large frying pan and heat up over medium-high heat. Once the oil is heated, add the vegetable mixture to the pan and flatten it out using a spatula or fork. The idea is to create a thin layer about 1/4 inch thick. You may need to do this in several batches.
As each batch is cooked, remove it with a slotted spoon or spatula and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. When all the vegetables have been cooked, put them in a bowl or pot and toss with the Japanese mayonnaise or sesame sauce. Serve with rice or noodles and some pickles on the side.
You can also take this opportunity to add more vegetables and spices to the mix. Once you have tasted this delicious food, you will understand why it is such a popular choice among restaurants and home cooks alike.