Peanut Tempeh Curry - Vegan Recipes - My Green Passion (2024)

FAQs

How do you cook tempeh without killing probiotics? ›

Doesn't cooking tempeh kill the good bacteria? Just on the outside. As long as the internal temperature doesn't get too hot the probiotic stimulators will remain alive. That's why we recommend you don't cook in the microwave.

Simmer the tempeh to soften the flavor.

Before using tempeh in any recipe, you can soften its bitter flavor by simmering the cubes for a couple minutes in the microwave or in a saucepan on the stove. An alternative to simmering: set a steamer basket in a pot and steam the cubes for 10 to 15 minutes. Drain and pat dry.

Tempeh is made by fermentation using beneficial microorganisms such as mold and lactic acid bacteria (LAB). LAB has potential as a probiotic. However, generally, people consume cooked tempeh. Thus, the microorganisms are inactivated and become paraprobiotics.

May support gut health

However, tempeh is rich in fibre – in particular, the type of fibre known to be prebiotic. This fibre feeds the beneficial bacteria in the gut, helping them thrive and increase in number.

You should avoid tempeh if you have a soy allergy. There is some concern that soy may affect how your thyroid works or how you absorb thyroid medication. To be safe, you should talk to your doctor about eating tempeh or other soy products if you have a thyroid disorder.

Steaming the tempeh will remove some of the bitterness before cooking it further. This step isn't always necessary, especially if you're pairing the tempeh with a boldly-flavored sauce. You can steam tempeh using a steamer basket in a saucepan or a microwave-safe dish covered with water or vegetable broth.

But where does the bitter taste that can ruin tempeh recipes come from? According to Home Kitchen Talk, bitterness may build up in tempeh because of too much fermentation or how vinegar was used during tempeh production.

But both of them can create bitter tastes in fermented foods. Luckily, throwing tempeh into a steam bath before cooking with it helps to purge the flavours these food-fermenting organisms can leave behind.

Steaming the tempeh will remove some of the bitterness before cooking it further. This step isn't always necessary, especially if you're pairing the tempeh with a boldly-flavored sauce. You can steam tempeh using a steamer basket in a saucepan or a microwave-safe dish covered with water or vegetable broth.

Pasteurized, Not Probiotic

This is why tempeh, though fermented, should not be considered a probiotic food. But don't worry! This plant-based food is low in fat yet high in protein, calcium, and other nutrients. Because it contains all the essential amino acids, it's a complete source of vegetarian protein.