What is Tempeh?

Tempeh is a food that has been enjoyed in Asia for centuries. In recent years, it has made its way to countries around the world. It is best known as a vegetarian food option and a great alternative to tofu. It can be prepared in a number ways and seasoned to your liking. Whichever brand of tempeh you prefer, it is a heavily nutritious food anyone can add to their healthy diet.

What is Tempeh?

Tempeh can be described as a firm patty or cake made from soybeans. Soybeans are cooked and left to ferment slightly before it is shaped and cut. If you like, you can learn how to make tempeh at home. If not, there are a few great brands in stores. Although it’s generally nutty in flavor, it is available in many flavors and seasonings. Choose one according to your taste preferences and fitness goals.

photo credit: Scott Veg

What is Tempeh Good For?

This soybean-based food is an amazing source of protein. One cup yields 30 grams of protein, which is more than half of what you need daily. Protein is filling and helps build muscle, which can help with weight management. It also contains manganese, copper and vitamin B. The body uses manganese and copper to improve healing and brain function, while vitamin B maintains a great metabolism.

How to Cook Tempeh

If you’re only finding out what tempeh is, you might not know how to start preparing it. Luckily, cooking tempeh is easy and can be quick depending on which method you use.

Prepping

Tempeh usually comes in firm blocks or cakes. Before cooking, cut into slices or cube them to decrease cooking time. Feel free to marinate it in broth, soy sauce, honey, milk, orange juice or any other flavor of marinade you enjoy. You can also add spices and herbs as desired.

Steaming

To steam tempeh, you can place the block in a pan and cover it in water. Bring water to the boil, lower heat to medium and allow it to simmer for 10 minutes. Once it’s cooked, you can season it and eat as is, or pan-fry or bake it in the oven until golden brown.

Pan-fry

Cut tempeh into slices and marinade for 10 to 20 minutes. Heat oil in a pan, add a chopped clove of garlic and fry until it is crispy and golden brown.

Crumble

If you would like to quickly add tempeh to a salad or soup, steam it and crumble it into your favorite dish.

Cooking Tips

Like tofu, tempeh easily adjusts to the taste of your dish. In other words, it takes on other food’s flavors. With that said, you can marinade it to give it a distinctive taste, or crumble it into strong-flavored foods for it to assimilate its taste while providing a protein boost.

If you’ve been asking yourself what tempeh is, the answer is quite simple. It is a nutrient-packed food made of soybeans you can add to your every day meals. Ideal for vegetarians looking for a tofu replacement, it contains plenty of protein, minerals and vitamins to fill you up and keep you healthy.