What Is Tempeh? Here’s Everything You Need to Know

Posted by Calvin on September 18, 2024

If you’re scanning vegan recipes or looking at vegan meal plans, you might see the word “tempeh” popping up. So, what is tempeh, and why is it such a staple in the vegan lifestyle? 🤔 Here’s everything you need to know:

What Is Tempeh?

Tempeh is a traditional Southeast Asian food made by fermenting soybeans. You can cook it and add it to various dishes. Because it’s so tasty and nutritious (more info on both of these points soon), it’s a great vegan food to eat instead of meat. (If you have a soy allergy, go with seitan instead.)

What Does Tempeh Taste Like?

Tempeh has a great nutty flavor and can soak up any flavors you marinate or cook it in. 😋 There are lots of different varieties of tempeh—some are made with just soybeans and water, while others also include flax or grains—so they’ll each taste a bit different. Pro tip: Steam tempeh for 10 minutes before cooking it with a sauce to make it soak up more flavor.

Is Tempeh Healthy?

If you’re looking for an excellent vegan source of protein and fiber, tempeh is tough to top. A 3.5-ounce serving provides about 20 grams of protein plus plenty of iron and vitamin B₁₂. 💪 Also, tempeh is an example of soy in its whole form, which can help improve bone health and even decrease your risk of getting some forms of cancer.

How Can You Enjoy Tempeh?

There are many options for preparing tempeh—try steaming, simmering, or pan-frying it and crumbling it up into delish vegan dishes. You can also marinate, grill, or deep-fry it and add it to a sandwich instead of meat. If you want to add it to a soup or stew, you don’t even need to steam it—it’ll soften during the cooking process and soak up the flavors in your pot.

Where Can You Buy Tempeh?

It’s available at most health food stores and in the refrigerated sections of major grocery store chains. You can find tempeh at Trader Joe’s, Franklin Farms tempeh at Sprouts, and Lightlife tempeh at Target, Whole Foods, Publix, and many local co-ops. When you open the package, the tempeh should be a bit dry to the touch and have a light, sweet smell.

Tempeh Recipes

Ready to give tempeh a try? 😁 Follow these recipes to enjoy it in all types of dishes:

• Al Pastor Tacos
• Baked Tempeh Bacon
• Maple-Miso Tempeh Cutlets
• Basic Braised Tempeh
• Thai Tempeh
• Jamaican Jerk-Spiced Tempeh Nuggets
• Cajun Tempeh
• Asian Tempeh Napoleon

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Tempeh isn’t the only vegan food that seems to work with everything—tofu has been dominating that game for thousands of years. Find out more about this delicious and nutritious soy-based food.