Tempeh might be the most versatile and healthy power food that you've never eaten. If you took a poll of 100 Americans, chances are a handful at best will have eaten or even heard of tempeh. This is particularly unfortunate when you consider just how economical, healthy and potentially delicious tempeh is.
Tempeh Versus Tofu
Though in many ways tempeh is similar to tofu, they are two very different products. Tempeh, for one, was created in Indonesia, unlike tofu, which hails from Japan. They also have tastes and textures completely distinct from one another.
Though tofu comes in varying degrees of firmness, it is generally spongy and soft with a neutral taste and a smooth texture. It is bright white and very moist, making it great for a lot of dishes. Tempeh, on the other hand, is drier and far firmer. It is brownish in color and oftentimes even has whole chunks of soybeans spread throughout. While tofu is essentially congealed soy milk, tempeh is actually a fermented block of cooked soybeans. Tempeh has more calories than tofu, but it also has more protein and fiber, making it a great meat alternative for vegetarians, vegans or someone who just wants to change it up.
Ways To Use Tempeh
Though they are different in many ways, tempeh and tofu can be substituted for each other in many recipes. Oftentimes tempeh is steamed, however, before being sautéed or fried in order to improve its texture.
Tempeh has an earthy and even slightly sweet taste, making it a great addition to many foods. Here are some ways to consider using tempeh:
You can basically use tempeh in any recipe that you would otherwise use meat or tofu. Once you've had it a few times and get a better understanding of its flavor profile and texture, you will have no problem incorporating it into your diet.
 | Cooking vegetarian food does require that you think outside the butcher's case, but it need not be intimidating. Start by replacing meat in recipes you already cook, then look for vegetarian recipes that appeal to your senses, making sure to stock up on plenty of herbs and spices. |
 | Being a vegetarian is more than just a moral choice to protect animals or to rage against distasteful conditions in farms and the like. There are many health benefits to making the choice to eliminate meat from one's diet. The benefits of being a vegetarian are numerous and can help a person live a long and full life. |
 | Everyone needs variety in their diets to stay healthy and to keep their taste buds happy. Vegans perhaps need even more diversity in their diets to cover all of their nutritional needs. However, getting the proper vegan nutrition is not difficult. |
Seitan is gaining popularity amongst vegans and vegetarians, partly because it contains so much protein, and partly because the texture is often considered preferable to tofu or tempeh. Once you learn the basics of how to make seitan, you can experiment with different flavorings and shapes, making your own "steak" or "chicken" seitan cutlets. |
If you are looking for a vegetarian option for your barbecue guests, try creating this delicious tempeh recipe. Cooking tempeh is not difficult, especially when you prepare this curried barbecue dish. |
