“Tempeh… always delicious, and for some reason always a mystery.” That’s how Toni Fiore begins this recipe video. And it’s so true. For some reason, tempeh — tofu’s heartier cousin — confuses people. No one knows what to do with her.
Real quick, if you’ve never heard of tempeh, it is a soy product that originated in Indonesia hundreds of years ago. It is made by fermenting soybeans into a cake form. Similar to tofu, it is made from soy. But unlike tofu, tempeh is a whole soybean product. Its texture and taste are different from tofu too. Tempeh has a more substantial mouth-feel and a delightfully nutty flavor. Tempeh also contains more protein, fiber, and vitamins than tofu. If you ask me, I’d say it’s healthier.
Because it’s less well-known in the US, a lot of people avoid cooking tempeh at home. But that is a big mistake. Huge. First, tempeh is super cheap. You can get a package of tempeh for $1.99 at Trader Joe’s that easily feeds two people. Second, it’s really good for you. And third, this recipe.
Toni Fiore’s “Rotisserie Tempeh” is the easiest and best tempeh recipe I’ve found. My husband and I have made this countless times. We use these tempeh nuggets in sandwiches, salads, pasta dishes, over rice — honestly, they’re fabulous. And they’re so delicious!
Here is Fiore’s video that will show you how to make them. And just a word on Fiore — I’m obsessed with her. She is a vegan icon who’s been doing this for decades. I know she lives in Maine, but this video is giving me straight up New Jersey/Long Island vibes and as a proud Jersey gurl, I LOVE IT! Fiore has cookbooks, a website, and she hosts her own vegan shows on PBS! KWEEN! You can learn more about her here.
If you try this recipe, please let me know what you think! Happy cooking!