Are you looking to add a plant-based protein powerhouse to your culinary repertoire? Tempeh might just be the ingredient you're searching for. This versatile and nutritious soy product has been a staple in Indonesian cuisine for centuries, and it's steadily gaining popularity worldwide. Packed with protein, fibre, and a rich array of nutrients, tempeh can be transformed into a variety of mouthwatering dishes. Whether you're a seasoned vegan or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, these seven tempeh recipes will surely tantalise your taste buds.

1. Tempeh Stir-Fry

Let's kick things off with a quick and easy tempeh stir-fry. Start by slicing a block of tempeh into bite-sized pieces and marinating them in a mixture of soy sauce, minced garlic, ginger, and a splash of sesame oil. While the tempeh is marinating, chop up your favourite veggies – bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and snow peas work well.

Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, then add the marinated tempeh. Stir-fry until the tempeh is golden brown and crispy on the edges. Next, add in your chopped vegetables and continue to stir-fry until they're tender-crisp. Finish off with a drizzle of soy sauce and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a satisfying meal that's ready in minutes.

2. BBQ Tempeh Sandwich

Who says you need meat to enjoy a good barbecue sandwich? This BBQ tempeh creation is proof that plant-based meals can be just as flavourful and satisfying. Start by cutting a block of tempeh into thin strips and simmering them in a mixture of BBQ sauce and vegetable broth until they're tender and infused with flavour.

While the tempeh is simmering, toast your favourite burger buns and prepare your toppings – think crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and creamy avocado. Once the tempeh is done cooking, pile it high onto the toasted buns and top with your favourite fixings. Serve with a side of coleslaw or potato salad for the ultimate barbecue experience, minus the meat.

3. Tempeh Tacos

Taco night gets a plant-based makeover with these mouthwatering tempeh tacos. Start by crumbling a block of tempeh into a skillet and sautéing it with diced onions and peppers until everything is golden brown and fragrant. Add your favourite taco seasoning blend and a splash of water, then simmer until the flavours meld together.

While the tempeh mixture is simmering, warm up your tortillas and gather your taco toppings – shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, and a dollop of vegan sour cream are all excellent choices. Once the tempeh is done cooking, spoon it into the warm tortillas and top with your favourite fixings. Serve with a squeeze of lime for a zesty finish.

4. Tempeh Curry

Warm up on a chilly evening with a comforting bowl of tempeh curry. Start by cubing a block of tempeh and sautéing it in a large pot with diced onions, garlic, and ginger until the tempeh is golden brown. Add your favourite curry paste or powder, along with coconut milk, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Simmer until the flavours meld together and the sauce thickens.

While the curry is simmering, prepare your rice or naan bread for serving. Once the curry is done cooking, ladle it over the rice or serve it alongside warm naan bread for dipping. Garnish with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of freshness. This tempeh curry is sure to become a new favourite in your household.

5. Tempeh Buddha Bowl

Looking for a healthy and satisfying meal that's packed with nutrients? Look no further than this tempeh Buddha bowl. Start by marinating sliced tempeh in a mixture of tamari, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar for a sweet and tangy flavour. While the tempeh is marinating, roast a variety of vegetables – sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower work well.

Once the tempeh is done marinating, sauté it in a skillet until it's golden brown and caramelized. Assemble your Buddha bowls by layering cooked grains (such as quinoa or brown rice), roasted vegetables, sautéed tempeh, and your favourite greens (such as kale or spinach). Drizzle with tahini dressing or your favourite sauce for an extra flavour boost. These tempeh Buddha bowls are as nourishing as they are delicious.

6. Tempeh Caesar Salad

Give your Caesar salad a plant-based twist with the addition of crispy tempeh "bacon." Start by slicing a block of tempeh into thin strips and marinating them in a mixture of soy sauce, maple syrup, and liquid smoke. Once the tempeh is marinated, bake it in the oven until it's crispy and golden brown.

While the tempeh bacon is baking, prepare your Caesar salad ingredients – crisp romaine lettuce, homemade croutons, and a creamy vegan Caesar dressing. Once the tempeh bacon is done cooking, crumble it over the salad and toss everything together until well combined. Garnish with a sprinkle of vegan Parmesan cheese for a finishing touch. This tempeh Caesar salad is a satisfying meal that's perfect for lunch or dinner.

7. Tempeh Satay Skewers

Fire up the grill for these flavour-packed tempeh satay skewers. Start by cutting a block of tempeh into cubes and marinating them in a mixture of coconut milk, peanut butter, soy sauce, and lime juice. While the tempeh is marinating, soak wooden skewers in water to prevent them from burning on the grill.

Once the tempeh is done marinating, thread it onto the skewers along with your favourite vegetables – bell peppers, onions, and zucchini work well. Grill the skewers until the tempeh is golden brown and the vegetables are tender, then serve them with a side of peanut dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavour. These tempeh satay skewers are sure to be a hit at your next barbecue.

Whilst we haven't yet included it as an ingredient in our vegan ready meals yet, tempeh is a versatile and nutritious ingredient that can be used in a variety of delicious recipes. Whether you're craving a hearty stir-fry, a comforting curry, or a flavour-packed sandwich, tempeh has you covered. So why not give these recipes a try and discover the amazing world of tempeh for yourself? Your taste buds will thank you!