What Is Tempeh?
If you haven’t tried tempeh yet, it’s time to add this traditional Indonesian fermented soybean cake to your vegan culinary adventures.
Tempeh is a type of fermented soybean product that is originally from Indonesia. It’s made by cooking soybeans, then inoculating them with a type of mold — Rhizopus oligosporus — and allowing the beans to ferment, which creates a cake-like structure. It has a firm, nutty texture and an earthy, savory flavor that absorbs marinades well.
Tempeh is often hailed as a nutritional powerhouse. It’s high in protein (about 30 grams of protein per cup cooked), fiber, and probiotics. It’s also rich in vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and manganese, making it an excellent addition to a plant-based diet.
The Texture and Flavor of Tempeh
Tempeh has a firm texture that’s similar to that of tofu, but with a slightly different mouthfeel. (Tofu is softer and more delicate, while tempeh has a heartier bite.) Tempeh is also more porous than tofu, which allows it to absorb flavors well.
The unique texture of tempeh comes from the fermentation process, which creates tiny pockets of air in the cake. The mold also gives tempeh a slight tang that complements its nutty flavor.
Tempeh can be used in a variety of dishes, including appetizers, main dishes, and sides. Here are some ideas for incorporating it into your meals.
Appetizers and Snacks
Tempeh satay with peanut sauce is a delicious appetizer. You can find tempeh in the refrigerated section of natural food stores, often in vacuum-sealed packages. Cut the tempeh into bite-sized pieces and marinate them in a mixture of soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, and garlic. Thread the tempeh onto skewers, and grill until browned on all sides. (You can also cook the tempeh on a grill pan or in a skillet.) Serve with a homemade peanut sauce for dipping.
Another option is tempeh bacon bits. Cut tempeh into thin strips and marinate in maple syrup, soy sauce, liquid smoke, and smoked paprika. Bake in the oven until crispy. Sprinkle over salads, avocado toast, or eat as a snack.
Main Dishes
Tempeh is a fantastic plant-based protein to use in stir-fries. Simply cut the tempeh into bite-sized pieces, sauté in a pan with a little oil, then remove from the pan and set aside. Cook your favorite vegetables in the same pan, adding garlic and ginger as desired. Return the tempeh to the pan and season with soy sauce, sesame oil, and any other desired seasonings. Serve with rice or noodles.
Another option is tempeh tacos or burritos. Marinate tempeh in taco seasoning, then sauté or grill. Warm corn or wheat tortillas, then fill with the tempeh, along with your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, and shredded cabbage.
For a plant-based twist on Bolognese sauce, crumble tempeh into a pan and cook with olive oil until browned. Add canned tomatoes, garlic, and your favorite herbs and spices (like basil, oregano, and parsley). Simmer until the sauce has thickened. Serve over pasta.
Sides and Salads
Instead of croutons, make tempeh croutons by cutting tempeh into cubes, then baking in the oven with olive oil and seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Sprinkle over salads or grain bowls.
Another option is to cut tempeh into bite-sized cubes, then roast in the oven with olive oil, salt, pepper, and any desired seasonings (like cumin or smoked paprika). Serve as a side dish, or add to grain bowls for extra protein and texture.
How to Prepare and Cook Tempeh
Before cooking, it’s important to prepare tempeh by removing any white mold that may have grown on the surface. Simply rub off with a clean cloth or paper towel.
Tempeh is often marinated and seasoned before cooking. You can use a store-bought marinade, or make your own by combining ingredients like soy sauce, maple syrup, garlic, ginger, and vinegar. You can also use a variety of spice blends and herbs to add flavor. Allow the tempeh to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
Tempeh can be cooked in a variety of ways: sautéing, baking, or grilling. When sautéing, cook in a little oil over medium heat until browned on all sides. When baking, place on a baking sheet with olive oil and seasonings, then bake at 375°F until crispy. When grilling, thread onto skewers and grill over medium heat until browned on all sides.
The Health Benefits of Tempeh
Tempeh is high in protein (about 30 grams of protein per cup cooked), which supports muscle growth and repair. It’s also high in fiber (about 8 grams of fiber per cup cooked), which promotes feelings of fullness and supports healthy digestion.
Tempeh is also a probiotic food, thanks to the Rhizopus oligosporus mold used to ferment it. This beneficial bacteria supports gut health and boosts immune function.
1. Incorporating Tempeh into Vegan Meals
A. Appetizers and Snacks
1. Tempeh Satay with Peanut Sauce
2. Tempeh Bacon Bites
B. Main Dishes
1. Tempeh Stir-Fry with Vegetables
2. Tempeh Tacos or Burritos
3. Tempeh Bolognese with Pasta
C. Sides and Salads
1. Tempeh Croutons on Salads
2. Tempeh Cubes in Grain Bowls
II. Preparing and Cooking Tempeh
A. Marinating and Seasoning Tempeh
1. Flavor-enhancing marinades
2. Spice blends and herbs
B. Cooking Methods
1. Sautéing, baking, and grilling
2. Incorporating tempeh into various cooking techniques
III. The Health Benefits of Tempeh
A. High in Protein and Fiber
1. Supports muscle growth and digestion
2. Promotes feelings of fullness
B. Probiotic Properties
1. Supports gut health
2. Boosts immune function
IV. Conclusion
A. Embrace the versatility and health benefits of tempeh
B. Experiment with new recipes and cooking methods
C. Incorporate tempeh into your plant-based meals for added protein, fiber, and probiotics.