Tempeh is an ever-popular food in Asia. Those practising a plant-based diet would surely be accustomed to this soy-based food, for its particularly high protein content makes it a great meat replacer. Other then protein, it’s also rich in prebiotics, vitamins, and minerals. Some may say that it’s bland, while others may say it’s an acquired taste. We’re here to tell you however, that tempeh is simply healthy and awesome!
Originating from Indonesia, tempeh is made from soybeans that have been fermented, making it a gut-healthy food. The soybeans are then pressed and bound together to form a dense, cake-like patty. The result is a firm texture and rich, nutty and somewhat earthy taste. Like other soy products such as tofu, tempeh is known to take on the flavors of whatever it’s cooked with and can be marinated and seasoned to help easily boost the flavor. Tempeh is easy to prepare, and linked to a long list of health benefits. Here are some of them.
- A high-protein food and can be used as a plant-based protein.
- An excellent source of micronutrients such as manganese, phosphorus, magnesium, riboflavin, as well as calcium and iron.
- Rich in soy isoflavones, which are a class of compounds that have been extensively studied for their beneficial role in heart health.
- Contains antioxidants that can help fight free radicals and prevent oxidative damage to the cells.
- Contains prebiotics which feed the good bacteria in your gut, keeping you in top overall health.
- Thanks to its ever-growing popularity, you can easily buy tempeh at most grocery stores and supermarkets.
- Tempeh is brimming with bone-building nutrients, which include phosphorus, calcium, manganese, and copper.
- There are plenty of detailed guides available online for making homemade tempeh from scratch, try it!
