When people think of Japanese food, sushi and ramen often come to mind first. However, several fried foods are also popular options. Here are some light, nutritious, and flavorful fried dishes to try the next time you go out to a Japanese restaurant with friends and family. 

4 Fried Japanese Foods You’ll Love

1. Shrimp Tempura

This dish features shrimp coated with a light tempura batter and deep fried. Have it on top of udon or eat it by itself with a cold, savory dipping sauce. It’s usually served alongside a medley of likewise fried vegetables, such as bell peppers, trumpet mushrooms, eggplants, pumpkin, and green beans.

2. Chicken Nanban

If you’re in the mood for fried chicken, try this dish. It features chicken coated in a crispy egg batter and finished with chili powder and sweet and sour sauce. Many Japanese restaurants also include something cool on the side, such as avocado tartare. 

3. Agedashi Tofu

For vegetarians who want to enjoy fried foods, agedashi tofu is an excellent choice. This dish consists of silky tofu cubes coated in potato starch and fried until golden brown. To balance the flavors, shimeji and enoki mushrooms, green onion, grated ginger, and nori may appear on top. 

4. Potato Korokke

This is another tasty Japanese food for those who don’t eat meat. Mashed sweet potato cakes are coated with panko crumbs and deep-fried, topped with onion and kale, and served with mayo and Worcestershire for dipping. 

The next time you’re craving Japanese food, stop by Waioli Grill & Cafe for lunch or dinner. With over 20 years of experience in food preparation, this Japanese restaurant offers unique, healthy, and gorgeous small plates and entrees as well as a selection of wine, sake, and shochu to Honolulu patrons. Call (808) 734-5298 to make a reservation for family dining, and visit them online to view their complete menu.