If you’re looking to add more plant-based protein to your diet, these tempeh crumbles are a great prep-ahead option to add to bowls and salads all week long. Tempeh gets crumbled, quickly steamed in the pan, and sauteed with maple syrup and soy sauce for that sweet/salty flavor bomb. You could easily add in some fresh ginger or other spices to personalize it!
Ingredient highlight
Tempeh! Is a fermented soybean (or other legume or grain) product that is packed with protein, fiber, magnesium, B vitamins, and iron to name a few. I prefer it over tofu because it’s less processed (tofu is fermented soy milk whereas tempeh is fermented soy beans) and has a nutty flavor and better texture. Steaming tempeh can help remove the slightly bitter taste.
Servings 4 People
Prep Time 15 minutes 
Cook Time 10 minutes Ingredients
- 1 (8 oz) pack tempeh, crumbled
- ½ cup water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼-½ tsp red pepper flakes optional, to make spicy
- ¼ tsp kosher salt
Instructions
- In a large skillet over high heat, add crumbled tempeh and water. Bring to a rapid simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until all the water has evaporated, about 3-5 minutes.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add olive oil, maple syrup, soy sauce, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Give it a stir to coat, spread out into an even layer, and let cook for 3-5 more minutes, undisturbed, or until nicely browned. Turn the heat down if it begins to burn. Give it a stir, spread out again, and cook for 1 more minute, undisturbed. Sprinkle on the salt and stir to coat.
Items you can prep ahead (optional)
- Crumble tempeh
- Make tempeh
Substitutions:
- You could substitute the tempeh with crumbled tofu. Just be sure to press as much water out of the tofu as possible to prevent splatter and get more browning.
Storage:
- Store leftover tempeh in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Leftovers + Repurposing:
- Gently warm up leftovers in the microwave before adding to bowls and/or salads.
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