Flavorful & Easy Tempeh Stir Fry with Creamy Peanut Ginger Sauce (Vegan & Weeknight Ready!)
This Tempeh Stir Fry with Peanut Ginger Sauce is a culinary delight, ready in just 35 minutes and perfect for any busy weeknight meal! It’s also an excellent option for meal prep, delivering incredible flavor in every bite.
My journey with tempeh started with a bit of a bumpy road. I vividly recall the first time my partner, Gav, and I attempted to cook with it. His initial reaction after one bite was a firm, “Ew, no.” He wasn’t fond of the taste, the texture, or even the aroma. I laugh recalling that moment because it was so memorable it took us months to even consider buying tempeh again. As it turned out, we had made the crucial mistake of trying a very — let’s just say — “natural” chickpea tempeh for our inaugural experience. Spoiler alert: if it’s your first time trying tempeh, steer clear of chickpea varieties!
Fortunately, our perseverance paid off. After buying a standard soybean tempeh and giving it a proper marinade, Gav was 100% on board. From that day forward, tempeh earned its rightful place as a beloved staple in our kitchen. This versatile plant-based protein has since become a cornerstone of many of our favorite meals, including this incredibly flavorful Tempeh Stir Fry with Peanut Ginger Sauce, which I’m thrilled to share with you today.
Understanding Tempeh: The Fermented Powerhouse
Tempeh is often misunderstood, frequently overshadowed by its more popular cousin, tofu. But truly, tempeh is tofu’s more robust, fermented relative. Both are derived from soybeans, but tempeh undergoes a unique fermentation process where whole soybeans are cooked, fermented with a Rhizopus fungus, and then pressed into a firm, nutty cake. This process not only binds the soybeans together but also enhances their nutritional profile and makes them easier to digest.
Unlike tofu, which is made from coagulated soy milk, tempeh retains the whole soybean, making it less processed and significantly higher in fiber and protein. It also boasts a wealth of beneficial nutrients, including prebiotics, which support gut health. You can delve into more full details about various vegan ingredients here, but the long story short is: I absolutely adore tempeh as a vegan protein option. The key is simply knowing how to prepare and flavor it correctly. Once you master that, it opens up a world of delicious possibilities.
The Magic of Tempeh’s Texture and Flavor Absorption
One of the most remarkable qualities of tempeh is its unique texture. When cooked properly, it develops a beautifully crisp exterior while remaining tender and satisfyingly chewy on the inside. This fibrous texture also makes it an incredible sponge for flavors, readily soaking up marinades and sauces to deliver an explosion of taste in every bite. That’s precisely why it shines so brightly in a stir fry.
Recently, I found myself really craving some tempeh, so I asked Gav to pick some up from the supermarket. While my initial plan was to simply adapt my popular Tofu and Veggie Stir Fry in Sweet Ginger Sauce, a brilliant idea sparked: why not try it with a vibrant peanut ginger sauce? The combination promised to be utterly divine, adding a rich, creamy, and savory dimension that I knew would elevate the dish to new heights.
Why Peanut Ginger Sauce is a Game-Changer for Stir Fries
My affection for a truly great Thai peanut sauce runs deep. It’s a versatile condiment that has graced many of my dishes, from Fresh Spring Rolls and an Asian Noodle Salad to a hearty Cashew Thai Quinoa Salad. The allure lies in its perfect balance: it’s creamy, umami-packed, delightfully salty, with just the right hint of sweetness and a touch of heat. The ginger adds a fresh, zesty kick that brightens the whole profile.
This sauce isn’t just about incredible flavor; it’s also a powerhouse of nutrition, high in plant-based protein and healthy fats from the peanuts. Imagine tossing perfectly crispy tempeh, which immediately absorbs this magnificent sauce, with tender-crisp broccoli and carrots. The result is a truly divine, flavor-packed stir fry that comes together in a mere 35 minutes. The peanut ginger sauce thickens beautifully, clinging to every piece of tempeh and vegetable, creating a rich, cohesive flavor profile that is simply irresistible. Trust me, this is one dish you’ll want to add to your regular rotation!
What to Serve with Your Vibrant Tempeh Stir Fry
When it comes to pairing this delightful tempeh stir fry, the options are plentiful and can cater to various dietary preferences. I personally love serving this dish with some well-seasoned cauliflower rice, and honestly, I had forgotten how much I truly enjoy it! For a long time, I wasn’t a huge fan of plain rice (unless it was for sushi or fried rice). During my dating years with Gav, I would almost always opt for noodles at our favorite Asian restaurant. Over time, my preference shifted, and I started gravitating towards rice, though I always felt the need to drench it in sauce for flavor.
Cauliflower rice, however, is a game-changer. It’s incredibly quick to prepare, easily absorbs seasonings, and offers a fantastic low-carb alternative packed with nutrients. This allows the vibrant flavors of the stir fry to truly shine. You can find my simple cauliflower rice recipe here. Other excellent serving suggestions include:
- Brown Rice or Jasmine Rice: For a more traditional and hearty option.
- Quinoa: A protein-rich grain that adds a slightly nutty flavor.
- Rice Noodles: If you’re still craving that classic noodle experience.
- Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): Another fantastic low-carb, veggie-packed alternative.
- Lettuce Wraps: For a super light and refreshing meal, spoon the stir fry into crisp lettuce cups.
Expert Tips for Crafting the Perfect Tempeh Stir Fry with Peanut Ginger Sauce
To ensure your Tempeh Stir Fry turns out absolutely perfect every time, keep these essential tips in mind:
- Prioritize Tempeh Crispness: This is arguably the most critical step. In the initial cooking stage, make sure to crisp up the tempeh really well. A beautiful golden-brown crust will provide an incredible textural contrast once the sauce is mixed in, preventing it from becoming mushy and enhancing the overall eating experience. Don’t rush this step!
- Uniform Vegetable Sizing: For even cooking and a pleasant mouthfeel, cut all your vegetables to roughly the same size. If you’re julienning carrots, ensure they are consistent, and similarly, chop your broccoli florets uniformly. This way, everything cooks through at a similar pace, and you’ll get a satisfying, consistent bite in every spoonful.
- Optimal Reheating Method: While the microwave is convenient, I highly recommend reheating this stir fry on the stovetop. It truly helps to restore the tempeh’s desirable crispness and maintains the integrity of the sauce’s texture, ensuring your leftovers are just as delicious as the freshly made dish.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: When cooking the tempeh and vegetables, work in batches if necessary, or use a large enough pan. Overcrowding lowers the pan’s temperature, leading to steaming instead of searing, which prevents those coveted crispy edges on your tempeh and tender-crisp texture on your veggies.
- Consider Steaming Tempeh (When Needed): While not always necessary for all brands, some tempeh can have a slightly bitter taste. If you encounter this, a quick steam before cooking can make a world of difference. Here’s how:
- Cut the tempeh into 1-inch cubes or slices.
- Set up a steamer basket, a cooling rack, or even a plate placed on crushed foil inside a pot. Pour water underneath, ensuring it doesn’t touch the tempeh.
- Bring the water to a boil, then add the tempeh pieces to your steaming setup.
- Cover the pot and steam for about 10 minutes. This process effectively removes any bitterness and allows the tempeh to better absorb the delicious flavors of your sauce. I didn’t need to do this for the tempeh brand used in this recipe, but I’ve certainly done it for others!
Is This Tempeh Stir Fry a Low Carb Option?
For those, like me, who enjoy experimenting with lower-carb meal options, you’ll be delighted to know that this Tempeh Stir Fry with Peanut Ginger Sauce is remarkably carb-friendly. Each serving clocks in at approximately 8.6 net carbs, which I find quite incredible for such a flavorful and satisfying dish. When paired with a side of cauliflower rice, you have a complete, perfectly filling meal that aligns wonderfully with a low-carb lifestyle.
Initially, I wondered if a serving for five would feel too small, but thanks to the rich protein content in the tempeh and the healthy fats from the peanuts, I found myself thoroughly satisfied after my meal. This dish offers excellent satiety, preventing those pesky hunger pangs later. Of course, if your caloric or dietary needs require more, simply adjust your portion size accordingly! I genuinely hope you and your loved ones enjoy this delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make dish. Dig in and savor every bite!
Tempeh Stir Fry with Peanut Ginger Sauce
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Ingredients
Peanut Ginger Sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger or freshly minced ginger
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 2 tablespoon liquid aminos
- 1 teaspoon rice wine vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame seeds
- 1/3 cup natural peanut butter
- 1/4 cup hot water
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Tempeh Stir Fry
- 8 ounces tempeh, cut into 1″ cubes
- Pinch sea salt and pepper
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil or sesame oil
- 2 168g heads of broccoli, large stem removed and chopped
- 1 large carrot, peeled and julienned
Instructions
Peanut Ginger Sauce
- In a medium bowl, whisk all the sauce ingredients together until thoroughly combined and smooth. Alternatively, you can combine them in a jar with a tight-fitting lid and shake vigorously. Set the sauce aside; it can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for convenience.
Tempeh Stir Fry
- Heat the coconut or sesame oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cubed tempeh. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 2 minutes per side, until all sides are beautifully crisped up and browned. This crucial step develops flavor and texture. Next, add 2 tablespoons of the prepared peanut ginger sauce to the pan with the tempeh. Stir to coat thoroughly, allowing the tempeh to absorb the sauce for about 1-2 minutes. This infuses deep flavor into the tempeh while it continues to cook. Season with a pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Remove the tempeh from the pan and set it aside.
- Using the same pan, add the chopped broccoli and julienned carrots. Toss them for about 2 minutes over medium-high heat to start the cooking process. Then, add a few tablespoons of water to the pan and immediately cover it. Allow the vegetables to steam for approximately 2 minutes until they are tender-crisp. Remove the cover, reduce the heat to medium, and return the cooked tempeh to the pan. Pour in the remaining peanut ginger sauce. Stir everything well to ensure all the tempeh and vegetables are evenly coated in the rich sauce. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Remove the pan from the heat. Garnish generously with extra sesame seeds for added crunch and visual appeal. Serve immediately with your preferred side dish, such as cauliflower rice or brown rice, and enjoy this incredibly satisfying stir fry!
Notes
- Cut the tempeh in 1 inch cubes.
- In a pan, a steam basket or a cooling rack, and pour some water under neath that is not touching the pan. We’re doing this to steam your tempeh, so if you have another way to steam it that’s fine too! Even a place on crushed up foil with water underneath will work. Bring to a boil them add the slices of tempeh on top of the cooling rack/basket/plate (not touching the water). Cover with pot cover and steam for ten minutes. This helps to remove the bitterness and helps the tempeh to absorb more flavour.
Again, we didn’t do it here and it wasn’t bitter at all! We did have to do it for another tempeh brand that we tried.
Disclaimer: Although jessicainthekitchen.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, kindly note that these are only estimates. Nutritional information may be affected based on the product type, the brand that was purchased, and in other unforeseeable ways. Jessicainthekitchen.com will not be held liable for any loss or damage resulting for your reliance on nutritional information. If you need to follow a specific caloric regimen, please consult your doctor first.