Lemon Grilled Tempeh

Lemon Grilled Tempeh Recipe - Vegetarian Food from Indonesia

Region / culture: Indonesia | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Lemon Grilled Tempeh is a delicious and healthy plant-based dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight meal. The tangy lemon marinade adds a burst of flavor to the tempeh, while grilling it gives it a nice smoky char. This recipe is sure to be a hit with both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

History

Tempeh is a traditional Indonesian food made from fermented soybeans. It has been a staple in Indonesian cuisine for centuries and has gained popularity in the Western world as a meat alternative. Grilling tempeh with a lemon marinade is a modern twist on this classic dish, combining traditional flavors with a contemporary cooking technique.

Ingredients

0.25 cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice
0.13 cup of olive oil
0.25 tsp of thyme
0.13 tsp of black pepper
16 oz (454 g) of tempeh
1 large onion, sliced into rings
4 whole wheat hamburger rolls

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
In a small bowl, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, thyme, and black pepper for a marinade; set aside.
Cut the tempeh into pieces.
Place the tempeh pieces in a steamer or metal sieve over boiling water and steam for 15 minutes.
In a 2 qt (1.89 liter) casserole dish, combine the tempeh and the onions; pour the marinade over them.
Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
Bake the tempeh, onions, and marinade, covered, for 30 minutes.
Or cook the tempeh and onions over a grill until heated through, basting with the marinade.
To serve, place the tempeh and onions on the hamburger rolls. Garnish with lettuce and sliced tomatoes.

Per serving:

373 calories;
22 g protein;
18 g fat;
33 g carbohydrate;
42% fat.

Variations

Add your favorite herbs and spices to the marinade for a different flavor profile.
Use different marinades, such as teriyaki or barbecue sauce, for a unique twist on this recipe.
Add grilled vegetables, such as bell peppers and zucchini, to the sandwich for added flavor and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to steam the tempeh before marinating it to help soften it and remove any bitterness.

- Marinate the tempeh for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the tofu.

- Baste the tempeh with the marinade while grilling to keep it moist and flavorful.

- Serve the tempeh on a toasted bun with your favorite toppings for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Lemon Grilled Tempeh on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments. Pair it with a side salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling the tempeh gives it a nice smoky flavor and charred exterior. You can also bake the tempeh in the oven if you prefer.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use tofu or seitan instead of tempeh if you prefer.

- Use any type of bread or bun for the sandwich.

- Substitute the lemon juice with lime juice for a different citrus flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the tempeh and onions ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook them. This makes it a great option for meal prep.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Lemon Grilled Tempeh on a platter with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation. You can also garnish it with sliced avocado or pickled vegetables for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Lemon Grilled Tempeh with a side of grilled vegetables, such as asparagus or eggplant, for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a side of quinoa or brown rice for added protein and fiber.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the tempeh until heated through or reheat it in a skillet on the stovetop.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Lemon Grilled Tempeh contains 373 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Lemon Grilled Tempeh contains 33 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Lemon Grilled Tempeh contains 18 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Lemon Grilled Tempeh contains 22 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Tempeh is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, and vitamin B6.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy, which is a common allergen.

Summary

Lemon Grilled Tempeh is a nutritious and protein-rich dish that is perfect for vegetarians and vegans. It is high in protein and low in calories, making it a healthy choice for a meatless meal.

Summary

Lemon Grilled Tempeh is a delicious and healthy plant-based dish that is perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight meal. It is high in protein, low in calories, and full of flavor. Try this recipe for a tasty and satisfying meatless meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Lemon Grilled Tempeh. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished a yoga class at the community center. As I was walking back to my car, I noticed a small farmers market set up in the parking lot. Intrigued, I decided to take a look around.

As I wandered through the stalls, sampling ripe strawberries and fragrant herbs, I came across a booth selling tempeh. I had never cooked with tempeh before, but I had heard of its health benefits and decided to give it a try. The vendor at the booth was a friendly woman with a warm smile, and she handed me a flyer with a recipe for Lemon Grilled Tempeh.

I was immediately drawn to the bright, citrusy flavors of the dish. The combination of tangy lemon and savory tempeh sounded like the perfect summer meal. I thanked the vendor and made my purchase, excited to try out the recipe for myself.

When I got home, I gathered all the ingredients I would need for the Lemon Grilled Tempeh. I marinated the tempeh in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs, allowing the flavors to meld together for a few hours. As I grilled the tempeh on my outdoor barbecue, the smell of the lemon and garlic wafted through the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

When the tempeh was finished cooking, I plated it up with a side of grilled vegetables and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. The first bite was a revelation. The tempeh was tender and flavorful, with a bright citrusy kick from the lemon. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen.

Over the years, I have made Lemon Grilled Tempeh countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my taste. Sometimes I add a bit of honey for sweetness, or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat. Each time I make it, I am transported back to that warm summer day at the farmers market, discovering a new and exciting ingredient that would become a favorite in my cooking repertoire.

I have shared the recipe for Lemon Grilled Tempeh with friends and family, and it has always been met with rave reviews. Everyone is amazed by the bold flavors and delicious textures of the dish, and they always ask me where I learned to make it. I simply smile and tell them the story of how I stumbled upon the recipe at a farmers market, and how it has since become a beloved part of my culinary journey.

As I sit here now, writing down the story of how I learned to make Lemon Grilled Tempeh, I am filled with gratitude for the serendipitous moments that have led me to discover new recipes and ingredients. Cooking has always been a source of joy and creativity for me, and I am grateful for the opportunities to experiment and learn in the kitchen.

I hope that this recipe brings as much joy and deliciousness to your table as it has to mine. May you savor each bite of Lemon Grilled Tempeh, and may it inspire you to seek out new flavors and experiences in your own culinary adventures. Bon appétit!