Japanese Tendon with Greens

Japanese Tendon with Greens recipe videos

Japanese Tendon with Greens, or 'Tendon', is a popular bowl of steamed rice topped with a variety of tempura—typically shrimp and vegetables like sweet potato, shiso leaf, or lotus root—drizzled with a sweet and savory tare sauce. This version incorporates a generous portion of fresh greens, such as mizuna or shiso, either as part of the tempura or as a fresh side. It originated in Japan as a casual, satisfying meal found in both restaurants and street stalls.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is high in carbohydrates from the rice and the tempura batter, with a moderate amount of protein from the shrimp and a significant amount of fat due to the deep-frying. The added greens contribute dietary fiber, vitamins (like A and C), and minerals. A typical serving can range from 600 to 900 calories, depending on the portion size and amount of sauce used.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	750 kcal
Protein	30 g
Carbs	90 g
Fat	30 g
Fiber	5 g
Sugar	15 g
Sodium	1200 mg
Potassium	450 mg
Iron	4.5 mg
Calcium	80 mg
Vitamin A	300 µg
Vitamin C	15 mg
Vitamin B1 (Thiamin)	0.3 mg
Vitamin B6	0.5 mg
Niacin (B3)	8 mg

Per 1 serving (350 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, Tendon represents the Japanese principle of 'ichiju sansai' (one soup, three sides) by combining a staple grain, protein, and vegetables in one bowl. Nutritionally, the inclusion of fresh greens adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, fried tempura, helping to balance the meal and introduce raw, nutrient-dense elements that are often missing in fried dishes.