What is Tempeh and 15 Best Tempeh Recipes

Going vegan? Is it meatless Monday? Or are you simply looking to eat less meat and more tempeh? Whatever the case, you’ve come to the right place! You’re about to learn everything you need to know about tempeh, including the best tempeh recipes that are easy to make at home.

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What is Tempeh?

Tempeh is a soy-based food that is often found in vegan diets as an alternative to meat. Tempeh is both light and fluffy, and is often said to be cake-like. To make it, tempeh goes through a fermentation process to help break down the acid, making the starches easier to digest. Tempeh is a good source of protein and vitamin B12. 

Is Tempeh Healthier Than Tofu?

Often overshadowed by tofu, tempeh is a powerhouse food that’s packed with nutrients! Both foods are nutritious, however, tempeh has more protein, fiber, iron, and potassium per serving. Tofu has fewer calories than tempeh and has more calcium. So while tempeh is the healthier option, tofu can be a wiser choice for those focused on their calorie intake.

How to Cook Tempeh

You can cook tempeh in a few different ways: pan-fry, pan sear, bake, air fry or grill. There are a few things to remember when cooking tempeh. Use a microwave or boil it first for about 5 minutes to reduce bitterness, chop it into slices or cubes, marinate it and treat tempeh just as you would meat, which means, use spices! From there, pick some of these recipes and enjoy!

Easy Tempeh Recipes

1. Marinated Baked Tempeh

Your search for a baked tempeh marinade is over! This recipe produces both a flavorful and crispy baked tempeh. All it takes is 5 simple ingredients to transform bland tempeh into something delicious. Serve it with some rice and vegetables and enjoy! 

2. Vegan Tempeh Bacon

If you’re missing the crisp, salty deliciousness of bacon, don’t worry! You’re about to experience tempeh bacon that is vegan, tasty, and cholesterol-free! Crunchy on the outside, and ready in just 15 minutes, you’ll love the flavor and texture of this protein-packed treat. 

3. Best Methods to Cook Tempeh: Steam, Marinate, Bake

Are you new to the vegan game and not sure how exactly to cook tempeh? This step-by-step guide includes tips on how to make tempeh less bitter and pack it full of flavor! Marinade, bake, steam or sear – the choice is yours.  

4. Easy Tempeh Marinade

Here you will find 5 easy tempeh marinade recipes. Each one is simple and will easily make you love tempeh even more! You’ll get tips on how to prepare, marinate, and meal prep tempeh that’s perfect for baking, pan-frying, grilling, and so much more!  

5. Tempeh Stir Fry with Peanut Ginger Sauce

Ready and on your table in under 40 minutes, this tempeh stir fry is a must-try! From the peanut ginger sauce to the sesame seeds and maple syrup, this dish will easily have your mouthwatering! 

6. Tempeh Tacos

Yes, tempeh tacos really are a thing! Top these tacos with your favorite veggies and sauces for a meal your whole family will love! They’re also super fast to make, healthy, and beyond delicious! 

7. Teriyaki Tempeh and Broccoli

If you loved beef and broccoli before, you’ll love this recipe even more! This teriyaki tempeh and broccoli takes our meat recipe and gives it a vegan twist! It’s loaded with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for those nights when you’re looking for a healthy dinner option. 

8. BBQ Grilled Tempeh

With just 10 minutes to prep and about 15 minutes to cook, you and your guests will be enjoying some BBQ grilled tempeh in no time! Just place each piece of tempeh on a skewer, then grill and enjoy. It’s juicy with a bit of a smoky flavor that everyone will love!

9. Crispy Air Fryer Tempeh

If you have an air fryer, you need to try this recipe! The tempeh comes out crispy, filling and incredibly flavorful. Plus, it’s quick to make, so a great choice for those busy weeknights! We think this will be a new family favorite.  

10. Buffalo Tempeh Tenders

Here’s one for the kids! These Buffalo tenders are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside! Baked to perfection and then smothered in buffalo sauce, this is vegetarian comfort food at its finest. The secret? Three layers of buffalo sauce.

11. General Tso’s Tempeh

Time to skip the takeout and make this delicious general tso at home. It’s sticky, sweet and just what you need for your next dinner. Plus, it’s healthier than the takeout version. All you have to do is pan-fry, mix, and enjoy. Don’t forget, you can skip the MSG and sugar! 

12. Smoked Tempeh Bowls

Skip the wrap and buns and enjoy this tempeh in a bowl instead! Whether you’re new to the world of tempeh or a pro at making it, these smoked tempeh bowls are for you! Easy and quick to throw together, add some veggies or serve with quinoa or brown rice for a hearty meal. 

13. Tempeh Meatballs

If there’s one thing you can’t skip out on, it’s meatballs. Or in this case, tempeh meatballs! They’re easy, juicy, and delicious! All it takes is 35 minutes to have these on the dinner table. The secret ingredient in these meatballs? Quinoa! 

14. Tempeh Fajitas

Green peppers, red peppers, onions and tempeh – that’s exactly what makes up these tasty fajitas! The key to this recipe is marinating the tempeh so it soaks up a lot of flavor. Simply sauté and enjoy as is, or stuffed into tortillas with your favorite toppings.

15. Tempeh Sandwich

Stop right here for a sandwich that’s out of this world! It’s the newest vegan sandwich on the block and it’s tasty and incredibly nutritious! Made with tempeh, avocado, seasonings and oil, this sandwich is perfect for those days when you’re craving something filling but healthy!

 Is Tempeh Gluten-Free?

Made with just two simple ingredients, traditional fermented tempeh is gluten-free. The thing to keep an eye out for is the type of vinegar that’s used, as some may not be gluten-free. Some brands make tempeh with rice and grains, which wouldn’t make it gluten-free. The one brand to count on is Tofurky. 

What Is Tempeh Made Of?

Tempeh is typically made from soybeans, but you can also find it made with other kinds of beans. Vinegar is used to ferment the soybeans to break down the acid, making tempeh easier to digest. You can also buy tempeh seasoned or made with other grains.

Where to Buy Tempeh?

You can usually find tempeh in the produce section of most grocery stores. It’s also commonly found at large food retailers like Whole Foods, Costco, and Wegmans. If you prefer to shop online, you can buy tempeh on Amazon! 

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