What Is Tempeh?

Tempeh is derived from soybeans. It is made by fermentation and comes in the form of a cake. Its origin is on the island of Java, Indonesia, where it is very popular and can be found in hundreds of preparations.

It is similar to tofu in terms of its preparation, but with a different texture and nutritional characteristics. Find out all about tempeh in this article. 

What is tempeh?

This product can be prepared at home or purchased ready-made. In the latter case, you have to read the packaging well because they usually add other cereals such as barley and seasonings.

Its flavor is similar to that of walnut and is an option for those who consider tofu as bland. In turn, tempeh has more protein, beneficial isoflavones, and calcium.

Nutritional values

For starters, being a derivative of soy, it offers the vast majority of the benefits of this legume. However, its main property is its high protein content, being an excellent substitute for foods of animal origin.

Therefore it is recommended for vegetarians and vegans. In addition, if we consume 100 grams of tempeh per day, our body receives about 40% of the protein it needs and only 225 calories.

Health properties

In addition, it is beneficial in different areas of health:

• It can be beneficial for women in the menopausal stage, as it helps strengthen their bones and alleviates typical symptoms.
• Help reduce the risk of heart disease.
• It is believed to regulate blood sugar levels, but there are no studies to confirm this.
• Helps regulate the intestinal rhythm.
• It is a powerful antioxidant due to its copper and manganese content.
• Lastly, it is believed to promote digestive health.

How to use tempeh?

This food can be used in various preparations in the kitchen.  In general, it is cut into cubes and then sautéed in olive or corn oil, to add to salads or eat as a main dish. Also, if cut into slices, it can be another ingredient for sandwiches.

In its home country, Indonesia, it is eaten sautéed until golden, but it can also be steamed, boiled or cooked. As it has a firm texture, it can be grated or pressed like a hamburger or crumbled as a condiment.

You can cook at home

The homemade process for making tempeh is simple and inexpensive.

• You only need dehulled soybeans that are soaked for 12 hours and then cooked for 30 minutes with two tablespoons of vinegar.

• After that, two tablespoons of the Rhizopus mushroom are added and when it cools it is placed in a plastic bag with perforations so that it ‘breathes’.
• Leave in a warm place for 2 days and that’s it.
• It can be preserved in the refrigerator for up to 10 days.