Tempeh is a high-protein, fermented staple food of Indonesia and Malaysia. It’s made by a natural culturing and controlled fermentation process that binds soybeans into a cake form, similar to a very firm vegetarian burger patty.
They are traditionally formed into a rough rectangle or cube but can also be formed into other shapes. Its taste can vary considerably, depending on preparation techniques and manufacturing ingredients.
In this article, we will tell you where to find tempeh in grocery stores, which is why you’re here in the first place.
Let’s get started!
How is Tempeh Served?
In traditional Indonesian cuisine, tempeh is often served raw (known as “tempe bacem”) or fried with sauce as a snack or side dish.
In Malaysia, it is sometimes cut into thin strips and deep-fried as ‘tempeh goreng’.
Tempeh has been gaining popularity in the West for several years due to its health benefits.
Many people are looking for ways to incorporate tempeh into their diet without having to learn how to prepare it themselves at home.
Here’s all you need to know about tempeh this plant-based protein.
Where to Find Tempeh in Grocery Stores
You can find tempeh in the refrigerated section of your grocery store. It’s usually near tofu and other soy products. Tempeh is usually sold in blocks, but it can also be found in tubes that you can slice yourself.
If you are still looking for it on the shelf, ask an employee where they keep it.
Which Grocery Store Sell Tempeh
Tempeh is available at the following stores:
- Amazon
- Whole Foods
- Publix
- Sprouts
- Winn-Dixie
- Costco
- Wegmans
- Trader Joe’s
How Do I Cook Tempeh?
To cook tempeh, first, rinse it under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel.
Then cut it into 1/2-inch cubes or slices and steam for 10 minutes until tender. You can also bake, fry, or grill it for about 10 minutes per side until browned.
What Do Tempeh Packages Look Like?
Tempeh packages come in various shapes and sizes, but they all have one thing in common: they contain tempeh. It is usually packaged in plastic or foil wrappers.
The package size will vary depending on the brand, but most are between 8 and 16 ounces. Tempeh can also be found in some health food stores in the frozen section.
Traditionally, tempeh is wrapped in banana leaves, hibiscus leaves, or bamboo.
This gives the food an enhanced flavor than those packed with plastic wraps.
Many people still bundle it with hibiscus leaves. However, it has been mostly replaced with plastic.
What Does Tempeh Taste Like?
Tempeh has a savory, nutty flavor with a slightly chewy texture. It is often described as tasting like mushrooms or nuts.
Tempeh can be used in various dishes, from savory breakfast scrambles to hearty stews.
When cooked, tempeh absorbs the flavors of the dish it is in, making it a versatile ingredient.
Is Tempeh Only Good for Vegetarians?
Many people believe tempeh is only for vegetarians, but this isn’t the case.
Tempeh can be enjoyed by anyone who wants its rich flavor and texture. It’s a great addition to any diet and can be used in a variety of recipes.
Can You Buy Tempeh Online?
There are a few places to buy tempeh online, but we recommend Amazon.com. They have a wide selection of brands, and the prices are reasonable.
Another option is to go to your local natural food store and see if they sell tempeh in their bulk section.
This is a great way to get fresh tempeh because it can be more expensive than buying it online.
If you’re having trouble finding tempeh in your area, you can always try making it yourself!
It’s not as difficult as you might think, and plenty of recipes online can help you out.
How To Tell If Tempeh Has Gone Bad
If you need to check whether your tempeh has spolied, there are a few key things to check. First, check the expiration date on the package.
If it’s past the expiration date, the tempeh has likely gone bad. Another thing to look for is mold.
If you see any mold on the tempeh, throw it away. Finally, smell the tempeh. If it smells sour or unpleasant, it’s probably bad, and you should discard it.
How To Store Tempeh the Right Way
Tempeh can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer. If storing in the fridge, place tempeh in an airtight container and store for up to 1 week.
If storing in the freezer, wrap tempeh in plastic wrap or place it in a freezer bag and store for up to 6 months.
Is Tempeh Harmful When Eaten Raw?
Tempeh contains protease inhibitors which are natural plant compounds that block key enzymes that would otherwise digest our food.
This makes tempeh harder to digest than cooked soy products such as tofu because the protease inhibitors continue to act after the tempeh has been prepared.
However, these enzymes are active only within the body of an animal, so eating raw tempeh should not pose any health risks.
How To Get The Bitterness Out Of Tempeh
A lot of people are afraid to try tempeh because they think it will be too bitter.
This is a misconception, and it’s easy to get rid of the bitterness by steaming or boiling the tempeh before using it.
Steaming is the most common method used to reduce bitterness in tempeh.
If you’re steaming your tempeh, boil some water and add your tempeh cubes to a steamer basket. Cover with a lid, turn down the heat, and steam for 15 minutes.
Tempeh can also be boiled at 140 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes. You can also boil it in stock or coconut milk — both of which will add their flavor profiles to your dish. Keep an eye on your tempeh so it doesn’t fall apart during cooking time.
Conclusion
Tempeh is a superfood, yet it is frequently overshadowed by its more famous relative, tofu.
However, tempeh is no longer just for vegans or health food store buyers; tempeh is now appearing on restaurant menus and in grocery stores across the country.
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