Tomato Tempeh Stir Fry

Looking for a delicious and easy vegan dinner option? Look no further than this mouthwatering Tomato Tempeh Stir Fry! Packed with flavour and nutrients, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds and keep you feeling satisfied.

If you're searching for more easy and healthy plant based dinner ideas, you should also check out my tofu hokkien noodle recipe. Or, if its easy tempeh recipes that you're after, make sure to check out my favourite tempeh salad recipe, this tempeh tahini bowl. Another great way to enjoy tempeh is to marinate it and bake it in the oven, or you can marinate it and make these tempeh skewers too!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Tempeh, a plant-based protein made from fermented soybeans, takes center stage in this recipe, providing a hearty and meaty texture. Paired with juicy tomatoes and an array of colourful vegetables, this stir fry is not only a feast for the eyes but also a nutritional powerhouse. Plus, it's a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight meals when time is of the essence. Whether you're a seasoned vegan or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based options into your diet, this Tomato Tempeh Stir Fry is a must-try. Get ready to delight your senses and enjoy a delicious and wholesome meal that will leave you wanting more.

What is Tempeh?

Tempeh is a traditional Indonesian food made from fermented soybeans. It is a popular staple in vegan and vegetarian diets due to its high protein content and versatility in cooking. Unlike tofu, which is made from coagulated soy milk, tempeh is made by fermenting whole soybeans, which results in a firm and textured product. The fermentation process not only enhances the flavour but also increases the digestibility and nutrient profile of the soybeans. Tempeh is a rich source of protein, dietary fibre, vitamins, and minerals, making it an excellent addition to any plant-based diet (or any diet for that matter!)

Health benefits of incorporating tempeh into a vegan diet

Incorporating tempeh into any diet, especially a plant-based or vegan diet, offers numerous health benefits. Firstly, tempeh is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids that the body needs for optimal functioning. This makes it an excellent source of protein for vegans and vegetarians who may struggle to meet their protein needs. Additionally, the fermentation process used to create tempeh enhances its nutritional value by increasing the bioavailability of nutrients and promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut.

Tempeh is also a good source of dietary fibre, which is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system. Fibre helps to regulate bowel movements, prevent constipation, and support the growth of healthy gut bacteria. Furthermore, tempeh is rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, magnesium, and vitamin B12. Iron is crucial for transporting oxygen throughout the body, while calcium and magnesium are essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth. Vitamin B12 is particularly important for vegans, as it is primarily found in animal-based foods and is necessary for the production of red blood cells and the functioning of the nervous system.

Step by Step Instructions For This Tempeh Recipe

Gather The Ingredients

To make this delicious vegan tempeh stir fry recipe, you will need:

• 500 grams of tempeh, diced into 2-3cm cubes
• 3 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1 brown onion, finely diced
• 4 cloves of garlic, peeled and crushed
• ½ cup of SOS chilli sauce of sweet chilli sauce
• ½ cup of tomato sauce or ketchup
• 200 grams of fresh baby spinach
• ½ cup of vegetable stock (for cooking), you can also use oil instead
• ¾ cup uncooked rice / rice for serving with (I like to use basmati rice)

Step By Step Instructions for Tempeh Stir Fry

To make this tomato tempeh stir fry:

1. Prepare the tempeh, tomatoes, brown onion, and garlic as per the ingredient list
2. In a small bowl, mix together the chilli and tomato sauce
3. Simmer the garlic in a pan on low heat for 30 seconds (using oil or veggie stock)
4. Add the finely chopped onions and stir for 2-3 minutes on medium heat, until the onion browns. Adding more veggie stock or oil if needed
5. Add tempeh cubes and stir for 5 minutes, ensuring that all the tempeh pieces are slightly browner
6. Add the chilli and tomato sauce mix and stir through the tempeh until well combined
7. Add the tomatoes and continue to stir on medium heat for 2 minutes
8. Turn off the heat and add the fresh baby spinach leaves. Stir through until slightly wilted
9. Remove from heat and serve with cooked rice of your choice

Variations and substitutions for the recipe

The Tomato Tempeh Stir Fry is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your preferences and dietary restrictions. Here are some variations and substitutions you can try:

• Feel free to use any combination of vegetables you have on hand. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover veggies in your fridge.
• For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce
• If you prefer more spiciness, add some chilli flakes!
• Add some extra protein by including cooked chickpeas or lentils to the stir fry.