Tempeh is a vegetarian and vegan staple. This fermented soy bean product is texturally and nutritionally different from tofu. Whole soy beans are packed together to form a cake that firms as it ages. Tempeh is high in protein, dietary fiber, and other vitamins.
At its best, tempeh has a rich and nutty flavor that works well in a number of dishes. Depending on the brand, it can sometimes have a bitter taste. Steaming the tempeh for about ten minutes prior to using helps remove some of that bitterness.
This versatile ingredient can be sliced into strips and steamed, marinated and grilled or crumbled and tossed with sauces or scrambled. Similar to tofu, tempeh absorbs the flavor of the other ingredients its surrounded by which makes it ideal for bold spice blends or marinades.
If you've never cooked with tempeh before, these sandwich recipes are an excellent introduction. They are quick, easy and delicious.
BBQ Tempeh Sandwich
Recipe from Oh My Veggies
Smoky Tempeh and Hummus Sandwiches
Recipe from Food 52
Tempeh Sloppy Joes
Recipe from Chickypea
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