She Strengthens

The Hidden Gem of Plant-Based Protein: Unlocking the Potential of Tempeh

Tempeh, once a rising star in the plant-based protein scene, has fallen out of favor in recent years. Overprocessing into imitation meats, energy bars, and cheese substitutes has led to a loss of its nutritional benefits. However, by consuming tempeh in its most unprocessed forms, we can reap its potential health benefits. Cultured and fermented tempeh offers a meatier, heartier, and chewier texture than tofu, with research suggesting neuroprotective effects, inflammation reduction, and antioxidative properties.

Breaking Free from Obscurity: Tempeh’s Mainstream Moment

Gone are the days of searching for tempeh in specialty stores. Now, it’s easily accessible at mainstream supermarkets. With its newfound availability, it’s time to experiment with this versatile ingredient.

Vegan Tempeh Recipes to Spice Up Your Life

Appetizers

1. Vegan Cheese and Tempeh Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms: A party in your mouth awaits with this crumbled tempeh mixture, nutritional yeast, and vegan Parmesan.
2. Red Curry Tempeh Summer Rolls: Swap tofu for tempeh in these summer rolls, and experience its nuttier flavor and texture.
3. Baked Buffalo Tempeh Tenders: Ditch the chicken wings for slices of tempeh, and enjoy a dairy-free, gluten-free snack.
4. Crispy Panko-Crusted Tempeh Fries: Crunchy bites without the frying – a game-changer for meat-eaters and herbivores alike.
5. Sesame Ginger Tempeh Lettuce Cups: Savory, sweet, crunchy, and buttery, these wraps will become a staple in your kitchen.

Salads

1. Simple Kale Caesar with Maple Pepper Tempeh: A vegan twist on the classic Caesar, with cashews, Dijon mustard, and nutritional yeast.
2. Blissed-Out Thai Salad with Peanut Tempeh: A flavorful salad featuring peanut butter, tempeh, carrots, cabbage, and a refreshing citrus dressing.
3. Tempeh Taco Salad: Crunch, protein, and smoky paprika come together in this taco salad.
4. Roasted Vegetable Salad with Smoky Tempeh: Spice up your roasted veggies with smoky tempeh and a blend of flavors.
5. Southwest BBQ Tempeh Salad with Vegan Ranch: A vegan ranch sauce takes center stage in this southwest-inspired salad.

Sandwiches

1. Sweet and Spicy Tempeh Sweet Potato Sandwiches: Layers of avocado, sweet potato, and balsamic-maple marinated tempeh make for a satisfying sandwich.
2. Tempeh Reuben Sandwich: A vegan take on the classic Reuben, with tempeh, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing.
3. Tempeh Salad Sandwich: A deli-inspired sandwich featuring tempeh, celery, carrots, and avocado.
4. Vegan Tempeh BLT Sandwich: Thinly sliced tempeh, marinated and cooked to perfection, makes for a convincing BLT.
5. Buffalo Tempeh Sandwich: Spicy seekers, rejoice! This sandwich packs heat, with homemade Buffalo sauce and fresh avocado.

Entrées

1. Peanut Tempeh Stir-Fry: A match made in heaven, with tempeh, peanut sauce, and a hint of spice.
2. Vegan Pumpkin and Smoky Tempeh Chili: A hearty, meaty chili that’s perfect for the fall season.
3. Kale and Tempeh Curry: A fragrant, coconut-based curry that’s ideal over steamed rice.
4. Spicy Tempeh Stuffed Peppers: A twist on traditional stuffed peppers, with tempeh, cauliflower, and vegan cheese.
5. Vegan Tempeh Carbonara: A luxurious, cashew-based carbonara that’s better than bacon.

Unlocking Tempeh’s Full Potential

Tempeh is no longer an obscure ingredient, and with these recipes, you’ll never run out of possibilities in the kitchen. From BLTs to pasta, chili to taco salad, this plant-based staple deserves a spot on your grocery list every week.