Smoky Tempeh Wedges

Smoky Tempeh Wedges Recipe - Indonesian Vegetarian Food

Region / culture: Indonesia | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Smoky Tempeh Wedges are a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for vegans and meat-eaters alike. The combination of smoky chipotle, sweet maple sugar, and tangy apple cider creates a delicious marinade for the tempeh. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.

History

Tempeh is a traditional Indonesian food made from fermented soybeans. It has a nutty flavor and a firm texture, making it a versatile ingredient in vegetarian cooking. The addition of smoky flavors like chipotle and dulse gives this dish a unique twist on traditional tempeh recipes.

Ingredients

1 small dried chipotle chile or 0.13 tsp ground
1.5 oz (43 g) smoked dulse
1 tbsp garlic powder
1.5 tsp ground coriander
1.5 tsp paprika
2 small bay leaves
0.5 tsp caraway seeds
0.25 cup maple sugar
2 tsp dried thyme
1 tbsp salt
0.5 tsp freshly ground pepper
0.25 cup olive oil
3 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp blackstrap molasses
1.5 cup apple cider
2 (8 oz (227 g)) packages tempeh, each cut crosswise into 12 thin strips

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Place chipotle and dulse on a baking sheet and toast in the oven until crisp, about 10 minutes. Let them cool.
In a food processor, blender, or with a mortar and pestle, combine chipotle pepper, dulse, garlic powder, coriander, paprika, bay leaves, caraway seeds, maple sugar, thyme, and salt and pepper to taste. Process until it becomes a fine powder (you may need to do this in two batches).
In a medium bowl, combine oil, vinegar, molasses, and cider. Whisk in the spice mixture. Add tempeh to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it stand for 15 minutes.
In a large, shallow baking dish, place the marinated tempeh in a single layer. Bake until the marinade is almost completely absorbed, about 40 minutes. Serve hot.

Variations

Add diced vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini to the marinade for added flavor and texture.
Use different spices like cumin, chili powder, or smoked paprika to customize the marinade to your taste.
Grill the tempeh wedges instead of baking them for a smokier flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to toast the chipotle and dulse before blending them into a powder. This will enhance their flavors and create a more intense marinade.

- Marinate the tempeh for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the tofu.

- Bake the tempeh in a single layer to ensure even cooking and absorption of the marinade.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Smoky Tempeh Wedges with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. You can also serve it on a bed of quinoa or brown rice for added protein and fiber.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking technique for this recipe is marinating the tempeh to infuse it with flavor before baking. This allows the tempeh to absorb the marinade and become tender and flavorful.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find smoked dulse, you can substitute regular dulse or another type of seaweed.

- You can use tamari or soy sauce instead of salt for a richer flavor.

- Substitute agave nectar or brown sugar for maple sugar if needed.

Make Ahead Tips

You can marinate the tempeh in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to develop even more and makes for an easy weeknight meal.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Smoky Tempeh Wedges on a platter with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. You can also drizzle with extra marinade or a squeeze of lemon juice for added freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Smoky Tempeh Wedges with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of quinoa for a balanced meal. A glass of white wine or a cold beer complements the smoky flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Smoky Tempeh Wedges in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Smoky Tempeh Wedges contains approximately 250 calories. This makes it a satisfying and filling dish that is perfect for a main course.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Smoky Tempeh Wedges contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates. The maple sugar and apple cider add natural sweetness to the dish, while the tempeh provides a good source of complex carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Smoky Tempeh Wedges contains approximately 10 grams of fat. The olive oil and tempeh are both sources of healthy fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Smoky Tempeh Wedges contains approximately 15 grams of protein. Tempeh is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids that the body needs.

Vitamins and minerals

Smoky Tempeh Wedges are a good source of iron, calcium, and magnesium. Tempeh is also rich in B vitamins, including vitamin B12, which is important for vegetarians and vegans.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and may not be suitable for those with soy allergies. It is also gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Summary

Smoky Tempeh Wedges are a nutritious and delicious dish that is high in protein, low in carbohydrates, and moderate in fats. It is a great option for vegetarians and vegans looking for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Summary

Smoky Tempeh Wedges are a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for vegetarians and vegans. The smoky chipotle marinade adds depth of flavor to the tempeh, making it a satisfying and filling meal. Serve with your favorite sides for a complete and balanced dinner option.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was a warm summer day, the sun was shining, and the smell of fresh herbs filled the air. I was visiting my friend Maria, who was an incredible cook and always had the most delicious meals to share.

As we sat in her kitchen, sipping on tea and chatting about life, Maria suddenly jumped up from her chair and exclaimed, "I have the perfect recipe to share with you today! It's for Smoky Tempeh Wedges, and I know you're going to love it."

I watched in awe as Maria pulled out a tattered old cookbook from her shelf and flipped through the pages with excitement. She pointed to a recipe for Smoky Tempeh Wedges and began to explain how she had come across it.

"I first learned this recipe from my dear friend, who traveled to Indonesia and brought back this amazing dish. It's a perfect combination of smoky flavors, crispy texture, and a hint of sweetness. I've been making it ever since, and it's become a favorite in my household," Maria said with a smile.

I could hardly contain my excitement as Maria started to gather the ingredients for the dish. She explained each step of the recipe in detail, from marinating the tempeh in a smoky sauce to baking it to perfection in the oven. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the final result.

After what felt like an eternity, the Smoky Tempeh Wedges were finally ready. Maria served them on a beautiful platter, garnished with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lime. I took my first bite and was instantly transported to a flavor paradise. The smoky tempeh melted in my mouth, and the crispy edges added the perfect crunch. It was a dish unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

From that moment on, I knew that the recipe for Smoky Tempeh Wedges would become a staple in my own kitchen. I asked Maria if she would be kind enough to write it down for me, and she happily obliged. I promised to cherish the recipe and pass it down to future generations, just as she had done for me.

Over the years, I have made the Smoky Tempeh Wedges countless times, each time adding my own twist and incorporating new flavors. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all fallen in love with its unique taste and texture.

As I stand in my kitchen now, preparing a batch of Smoky Tempeh Wedges for a family gathering, I can't help but feel grateful for the moment I found this recipe. It has brought me joy, connected me to loved ones, and inspired me to continue exploring the world of cooking.

And as I take a bite of the warm, smoky tempeh wedge in front of me, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together, create memories, and nourish both body and soul. This recipe will always hold a special place in my heart, for it represents the beauty of sharing and the magic of culinary exploration.