Imagine biting into a tender, flavorful piece of protein that's not only good for you but also incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Tempeh, an Indonesian soy product, is just that. Loved for its dense texture and nutty flavor, tempeh offers countless possibilities for both novice and seasoned cooks looking to diversify their protein sources. Here, we explore seven mouth-watering tempeh recipes you've got to try to turn your meals from ordinary to extraordinary.
1. Tempeh in Satay Skewers
Imagine your taste buds dancing with every bite. Here’s how you can make them:
- Cut 8 oz of tempeh into small cubes.
- Marinate with 2 tbsp of peanut butter, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp honey, 1 crushed garlic clove, and a bit of red chili powder for heat. Let it soak in these flavors for at least 30 minutes.
- Skewer the tempeh and grill or broil until you see those perfect char marks.
- Serve with a homemade peanut sauce made from peanut butter, water, soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, and a dash of sambal.
🍢 Note: For an authentic touch, serve with slices of cucumber and pickled onions on the side.
2. Tempeh Stir-Fry with Garlic and Oyster Sauce
Quick to make and full of flavors, this dish is a must-try:
- Slice 8 oz of tempeh into strips.
- In a wok or large pan, heat vegetable oil and stir-fry 2 cloves of minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add tempeh, cook until golden, then stir in sliced vegetables of your choice like bell peppers and bok choy.
- Pour in 2 tbsp oyster sauce and a splash of soy sauce, then finish with a light sprinkle of sesame oil.
3. Crispy Tempeh Reuben Sandwich
Transform the classic Reuben with tempeh for a delightful surprise:
- Coat slices of tempeh in 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) until crispy, about 15 minutes.
- Assemble your sandwich with toasted rye bread, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing.
4. Tempeh and Kale Quinoa Bowl
Here’s a healthy bowl that’s both delicious and nutritious:
- Cook quinoa and set aside.
- Sauté tempeh, garlic, and kale together until the tempeh is browned and the kale is wilted.
- Mix with the cooked quinoa, and top with avocado slices and a squeeze of lemon.
🥗 Note: Use this recipe as a base, and feel free to add other vegetables or protein options.
5. Tempeh Curry
Rich in spices and flavor, this curry is comfort food at its best:
- In a pot, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until translucent.
- Add curry paste, then cubed tempeh, and stir until well coated.
- Pour in coconut milk, bring to a simmer, and add vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and green beans.
6. Tempeh Burger with Caramelized Onions
Who said burgers need to be meat-based?
- Grill or pan-fry tempeh patties seasoned with salt, pepper, and cumin.
- Top with caramelized onions, fresh lettuce, tomato, and a tangy sauce of your choice.
- Serve on a bun or lettuce wrap for a lighter option.
7. Tempeh Lettuce Wraps
Light, fresh, and incredibly tasty, here’s how to do it:
- Finely chop tempeh and stir-fry with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce.
- Add bell peppers, carrots, and green onions for crunch.
- Serve in lettuce leaves with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and peanuts.
Each of these tempeh recipes brings a unique twist to traditional dishes, proving that versatility and flavor are not the domain of meat alone. Incorporating tempeh into your diet is not just about exploring new flavors; it's also a nod to health and sustainability. With its high protein content, versatility, and the ability to soak up any flavor you throw at it, tempeh is an excellent choice for everyone from vegetarians to flexitarians looking to reduce their meat intake. Let these recipes inspire you to get creative in the kitchen and perhaps, discover a new favorite dish along the way.
What is tempeh made from?
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Tempeh is made from cooked and fermented soybeans. During fermentation, a binder such as vinegar or tempeh starter is added to create a cake-like consistency. Sometimes other legumes, grains, or seeds are included for added nutrition and flavor.
Is tempeh a good source of protein?
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Yes, tempeh is an excellent source of protein. It contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein, much like meat or eggs.
Can I freeze tempeh?
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Yes, you can freeze tempeh. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw and cook as desired. Freezing might change its texture slightly, but it’s still perfectly usable for most recipes.
