Tempeh is a versatile and nutrient-dense vegan protein made from fermented soybeans. Its firm texture and slightly nutty flavor make it an excellent base for a variety of dishes, from stir-fries to sandwiches.
If you’ve been looking to add more plant-based meals to your routine or simply want to explore creative ways to cook with tempeh, you’re in the right place. In this post, we’ll dive into 15 of the best vegan tempeh recipes that are not only packed with flavor but also easy to prepare.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just curious about incorporating tempeh into your meals, these recipes will inspire your culinary adventures and satisfy your taste buds.
Tempeh’s versatility means you can marinate, grill, bake, or sauté it to fit any cuisine or flavor profile. Plus, it’s loaded with protein, fiber, and probiotics, making it a fantastic choice for a healthy diet.
Ready to transform your meals with this amazing ingredient? Let’s explore these delicious vegan tempeh recipes that will become staples in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These vegan tempeh recipes are a fantastic way to enjoy a high-protein, plant-based meal that never feels boring. With bold marinades, fresh herbs, and simple techniques, you can transform tempeh into dishes bursting with flavor and texture.
Health benefits: Tempeh is rich in protein and probiotics, supporting digestion and sustained energy. It’s also low in fat and a great source of vitamins and minerals.
Easy to customize: Whether you like spicy, savory, or sweet dishes, tempeh adapts beautifully to any seasoning or cooking method you prefer.
Perfect for meal prep: Many of these recipes can be made in advance and stored, making weeknight dinners or packed lunches a breeze.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tempeh | 1 block (about 8 oz) | Firm or organic preferred |
| Soy sauce or tamari | 3 tablespoons | Use tamari for gluten-free |
| Maple syrup | 1 tablespoon | For a touch of sweetness |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | Or any neutral oil |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | Fresh for best flavor |
| Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon | Adds warmth and earthiness |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon | Optional, for smoky depth |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | Brightens the dish |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Enhances all flavors |
| Fresh herbs (cilantro, parsley) | 2 tablespoons chopped | For garnish |
Equipment
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Frying pan or skillet
- Baking sheet (optional for baked recipes)
- Spatula or tongs
- Small whisk or fork for marinade
- Measuring spoons and cups
Instructions
- Prepare the tempeh: Slice the tempeh into thin strips or cubes depending on your recipe preference.
- Make the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Marinate the tempeh: Place tempeh pieces in the marinade and toss to coat thoroughly. Let it sit for at least 20 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
- Cook the tempeh: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Add the marinated tempeh in a single layer and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Optional baking method: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange marinated tempeh on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve and garnish: Transfer cooked tempeh to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh chopped herbs like cilantro or parsley for a fresh finish.
Tips & Variations
For a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili powder to your marinade. You can also switch up the marinade base by using tamari, coconut aminos, or a tangy balsamic vinegar.
Tempeh pairs wonderfully with Asian-style sauces, barbecue, or Mediterranean herbs.
Try steaming your tempeh for 10 minutes before marinating to reduce bitterness and improve texture. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cooking methods like air frying or grilling for new textures.
For an easy meal, serve the tempeh over quinoa or brown rice with steamed veggies. Alternatively, chop it finely for vegan “tacos” or a tempeh “bolognese” sauce.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (4 oz tempeh cooked) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 190 kcal |
| Protein | 20 g |
| Fat | 11 g |
| Carbohydrates | 9 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Tempeh is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Serve it as a main protein alongside steamed vegetables and quinoa or rice for a balanced meal.
It also shines in sandwiches or wraps with fresh veggies and vegan sauces.
For a flavorful bowl, add cooked tempeh to your favorite grain bowl with avocado, greens, and a drizzle of tahini or vegan bechamel sauce. If you love spicy dishes, try pairing tempeh with a side of vegan sriracha mayo or a zesty salsa.
Don’t miss out on these complementary recipes from our blog to round out your meal:
- Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes
- Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners
- Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves
Conclusion
These 15 vegan tempeh recipes offer a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious and satisfying plant-based protein. Tempeh’s unique texture and ability to soak up flavors make it an exciting ingredient to experiment with in your kitchen.
From quick stir-fries to baked delights, these recipes are approachable for cooks of all skill levels.
Incorporating tempeh into your meals not only diversifies your diet but also boosts your intake of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Plus, the versatility of tempeh means you can easily tailor it to your favorite cuisines and flavors.
We hope these recipes inspire you to get creative and enjoy delicious, wholesome vegan meals that nourish your body and delight your palate.
Ready to dive deeper into plant-based cooking? Explore more tasty vegan ideas on our site and keep expanding your culinary repertoire with dishes like Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals or our decadent Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious.
Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: 15 of the Best Vegan Tempeh Recipes
Description: A curated collection of delicious and nutritious vegan tempeh recipes perfect for any meal. Each recipe highlights tempeh's versatility and rich flavor in plant-based cooking.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz tempeh, sliced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
Instructions
- Slice tempeh into thin strips.
- Mix soy sauce, maple syrup, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and apple cider vinegar to make marinade.
- Marinate tempeh in mixture for at least 10 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add tempeh and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add mixed vegetables and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Pour in vegetable broth and sprinkle nutritional yeast.
- Simmer until broth reduces and vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
- Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 22 g | Fat: 15 g | Carbs: 18 g
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