Tag: vegan alternative

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‘Tofu’ Instead of ‘Salmon’: 5 High Protein Plant-Based Meal Prep Ideas

photo of tofu on white ceramic plate

Introduction: If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious alternative to seafood, tofu is an excellent plant-based option that can provide you with the protein you need. Packed with essential amino acids and versatile in its preparation, tofu can easily replace salmon in your meal prep routine. In this post, we’ll explore five high-protein plant-based meal prep ideas featuring tofu that are not only healthy but also incredibly tasty. Get ready to elevate your plant-based cooking game with these delectable recipes!

  1. Crispy Tofu Stir-Fry: Ingredients:
  • Firm tofu
  • Assorted vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
  • Soy sauce
  • Sesame oil
  • Garlic
  • Ginger
  • Red chili flakes (optional)
  • Brown rice

Instructions:

  • Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cut it into cubes.
  • In a hot skillet or wok, add some sesame oil and stir-fry the tofu until it turns golden brown and crispy.
  • Remove the tofu from the pan and set it aside.
  • In the same pan, add the chopped garlic, ginger, and vegetables, and stir-fry until they are tender-crisp.
  • Return the tofu to the pan, add soy sauce and red chili flakes (if desired), and toss everything together.
  • Serve the stir-fry over a bed of cooked brown rice for a satisfying and protein-packed meal.
  1. Tofu “Salmon” Sushi Rolls: Ingredients:
  • Nori sheets
  • Sushi rice
  • Firm tofu
  • Avocado
  • Cucumber
  • Carrot
  • Soy sauce
  • Wasabi (optional)
  • Pickled ginger (optional)

Instructions:

  • Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then slice it into thin strips.
  • Prepare sushi rice according to package instructions.
  • Lay a sheet of nori on a bamboo sushi mat and spread a thin layer of sushi rice on top.
  • Add strips of tofu, avocado, cucumber, and carrot as your fillings.
  • Roll the sushi tightly using the bamboo mat, applying gentle pressure.
  • Slice the sushi roll into bite-sized pieces and serve with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger for a traditional sushi experience with a plant-based twist.
  1. Tofu and Vegetable Skewers: Ingredients:
  • Firm tofu
  • Assorted vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms)
  • Olive oil
  • Lemon juice
  • Garlic powder
  • Paprika
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  • Cut the tofu into cubes and prepare the vegetables by chopping them into bite-sized pieces.
  • Thread the tofu and vegetables onto skewers, alternating between them.
  • In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
  • Brush the marinade onto the tofu and vegetables skewers.
  • Grill the skewers on medium heat until the tofu is lightly browned and the vegetables are tender.
  • Serve the skewers as a protein-rich main course or as a flavorful addition to a salad or grain bowl.
  1. Tofu and Spinach Stuffed Shells: Ingredients:
  • Jumbo pasta shells
  • Firm tofu
  • Spinach (fresh or frozen)
  • Onion
  • Garlic
  • Marinara sauce
  • Nutritional yeast
  • Dried basil
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  • Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions, then set them aside.
  • In a pan, sauté chopped onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent.
  • Crumble the tofu and add it to the pan along with spinach. Cook until the spinach is wilted and the tofu is heated through.
  • Stir in nutritional yeast, dried basil, salt, and pepper for added flavor.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Stuff the cooked pasta shells with the tofu and spinach mixture and arrange them in a baking dish.
  • Pour marinara sauce over the shells, cover with foil, and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly.
  • Serve the stuffed shells as a comforting and protein-packed meal that will satisfy even the most discerning palates.
  1. Tofu Caesar Salad: Ingredients:
  • Romaine lettuce
  • Firm tofu
  • Croutons (store-bought or homemade)
  • Vegan Caesar dressing
  • Lemon juice
  • Garlic powder
  • Nutritional yeast
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  • Slice the tofu into thin strips and press to remove excess moisture.
  • In a bowl, mix together lemon juice, garlic powder, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
  • Place the tofu strips in the marinade and let them soak for 15-20 minutes.
  • Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and cook the tofu until it turns golden brown and crispy.
  • Assemble a bed of fresh romaine lettuce, top it with the crispy tofu, croutons, and drizzle with vegan Caesar dressing.
  • Enjoy a delicious and protein-rich Caesar salad with a tofu twist that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished.

Conclusion: With these five high-protein plant-based meal prep ideas, you can easily replace seafood with tofu and enjoy nutritious, delicious, and cruelty-free alternatives. Tofu offers a versatile canvas for your culinary creations, allowing you to explore a wide range of flavors and textures. Give these recipes a try, and discover the incredible potential of tofu in your plant-based cooking adventures. Stay tuned for more creative and protein-packed meal prep ideas in our next posts!

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The Power of Chia Seeds: 5 Plant-Based High-Protein Meal Prep Ideas

fish food inside jar

In the vast world of superfoods, chia seeds are quite the standout. Despite their tiny size, these seeds are packed with essential nutrients, boasting high amounts of protein, fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and various micronutrients. They have a mild, nutty flavor, making them an easy addition to a variety of dishes, from smoothies to salads to baked goods. Let’s explore how these powerful seeds can replace the typically used pork as the protein source in 5 delectable meal prep ideas.

1. Chia Pudding with Fresh Berries

A simple and nutritious way to kickstart your day.

  • Serving Size: 200g
  • Estimated Macros: 220 calories, 10g protein, 25g carbs, 10g fat
  • Preparation time: 10 minutes (plus soaking time)
  • Cooking instructions: Combine chia seeds with your choice of plant-based milk, a touch of vanilla extract, and a sweetener like maple syrup or honey. Let the mixture sit in the fridge overnight. The next morning, top your pudding with a variety of fresh berries, and enjoy.
  • Best time to eat: Breakfast
  • Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

2. Chia Seed Smoothie

A perfect post-workout refreshment.

  • Serving Size: 250g
  • Estimated Macros: 280 calories, 15g protein, 30g carbs, 10g fat
  • Preparation time: 5 minutes
  • Cooking instructions: Blend together a ripe banana, a handful of spinach, a spoonful of peanut butter, plant-based milk, and a tablespoon of chia seeds until smooth. Pour into a glass, and enjoy this nutrient-dense, protein-packed smoothie post-workout.
  • Best time to eat: Post-workout
  • Storage instructions: Best enjoyed immediately after preparation.

3. Chia-Crusted Tofu Stir-Fry

A flavorful main dish that’s high in protein.

  • Serving Size: 300g
  • Estimated Macros: 400 calories, 25g protein, 35g carbs, 15g fat
  • Preparation time: 30 minutes
  • Cooking instructions: Press and slice tofu into cubes. Dip the cubes in a mixture of soy sauce and sesame oil, then coat in chia seeds. Pan-fry the tofu cubes until they’re crispy, and serve with a colorful stir-fry of bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots.
  • Best time to eat: Lunch or dinner
  • Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove before serving.

4. Chia Seed Pancakes

A delicious, protein-packed twist on classic pancakes.

  • Serving Size: 2 pancakes
  • Estimated Macros: 320 calories, 12g protein, 40g carbs, 12g fat
  • Preparation time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking instructions: In a bowl, mix together whole wheat flour, chia seeds, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. In another bowl, whisk together a flax egg, plant-based milk, and a touch of maple syrup. Combine the wet and dry ingredients to form a batter. Cook the pancakes on a hot griddle until golden brown on both sides. Enjoy with a drizzle of maple syrup and a sprinkle of extra chia seeds.
  • Best time to eat: Breakfast
  • Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove before serving.

5. Chia Seed Granola

A versatile topping or snack, packed with protein and fiber.

  • Serving Size: 50g
  • Estimated Macros: 230 calories, 8g protein, 25g carbs, 12g fat
  • Preparation time: 10 minutes (plus baking time)
  • Cooking instructions: In a bowl, mix together oats, chia seeds, chopped nuts, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir in maple syrup and a touch of coconut oil until everything is well-coated. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and bake at 325°F until golden and crispy. Allow the granola to cool, then break into clusters. This granola is perfect for topping yogurt, smoothie bowls, or simply for snacking.
  • Best time to eat: Snack or as a topping
  • Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

I hope these meal prep ideas inspire you to explore the versatile world of chia seeds. Don’t forget to share your own creations in the comments below. Let’s spread the chia love!

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The Splendid Protein of Spirulina: 5 Plant-Based Meal Prep Ideas

basil leaves and avocado on sliced bread on white ceramic plate

A small, microscopic blue-green algae, spirulina has surged in popularity due to its impressive nutritional profile. It boasts high levels of protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it a favored choice among health enthusiasts and the vegan community.

Spirulina has a slightly savory, sea-like flavor, making it easy to incorporate into a variety of dishes. In powder form, it can be effortlessly added to smoothies, salads, and even baked goods for a nutrient boost. Let’s dive into 10 meal prep ideas with spirulina as the star protein source, substituting for the commonly used beef.

1. Spirulina Smoothie Bowl

Start your day with this vibrant, nutrient-dense bowl of goodness.

  • Serving Size: 300g
  • Estimated Macros: 250 calories, 15g protein, 45g carbs, 5g fat
  • Preparation time: 5 minutes
  • Cooking instructions: Blend together frozen bananas, a generous spoonful of spirulina powder, a splash of almond milk, and a handful of spinach until smooth. Pour this into a bowl and top with fresh berries, chia seeds, and a drizzle of honey. Enjoy this bright bowl for a refreshing start to your day.
  • Best time to eat: Breakfast
  • Storage instructions: Best enjoyed immediately after preparation.

2. Vegan Spirulina Pesto Pasta

This pasta dish is a delicious twist on the classic, with a punch of protein from spirulina.

  • Serving Size: 350g
  • Estimated Macros: 430 calories, 18g protein, 60g carbs, 15g fat
  • Preparation time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking instructions: To make the pesto, blend together fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, nutritional yeast, spirulina powder, and olive oil. Cook your preferred pasta as per packet instructions, and stir through the spirulina pesto. Enjoy this flavorful dish sprinkled with extra nutritional yeast and a side of cherry tomatoes.
  • Best time to eat: Lunch or dinner
  • Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove before serving.

3. Spirulina Infused Quinoa Salad

This fresh salad is a perfect mix of crunch, flavor, and nutrition.

  • Serving Size: 250g
  • Estimated Macros: 350 calories, 15g protein, 45g carbs, 12g fat
  • Preparation time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking instructions: Cook quinoa as per packet instructions, adding a teaspoon of spirulina powder towards the end. In a large bowl, combine the cooled spirulina-infused quinoa with chopped cucumber, cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese. Dress the salad with a drizzle of olive oil, lemon juice, and salt and pepper to taste.
  • Best time to eat: Lunch or dinner
  • Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Best served chilled.

4. Spirulina Energy Balls

These energy balls are perfect for a quick snack or a post-workout fuel-up.

  • Serving Size: 3 balls
  • Estimated Macros: 250 calories, 8g protein, 35g carbs, 10g fat
  • Preparation time: 15 minutes (plus chilling time)
  • Cooking instructions: In a food processor, combine dates, oats, almonds, a scoop of spirulina powder, and a drizzle of honey. Pulse until the mixture comes together. Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls and chill in the fridge for an hour before enjoying.
  • Best time to eat: Snack time
  • Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.

5. Spirulina Avocado Toast

Avocado toast gets a superfood upgrade in this easy recipe.

  • Serving Size: 2 slices
  • Estimated Macros: 330 calories, 12g protein, 35g carbs, 18g fat
  • Preparation time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking instructions: Mash a ripe avocado with a touch of lemon juice, salt, pepper, and a teaspoon of spirulina powder. Spread this vibrant green mixture over whole-grain toast. Top with radish slices and sesame seeds for extra crunch.
  • Best time to eat: Breakfast or lunch
  • Storage instructions: Best enjoyed immediately after preparation.

More to come in the next post. Experiment with these delicious recipes and don’t forget to share your experiences and tweaks in the comments below. Happy cooking and enjoy your exploration into the world of spirulina!

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Seitan, the Vegan’s Chicken: 10 High-Protein, Plant-Based Meal Prep Ideas

woman smelling a bottle of essential oil

Seitan, also known as wheat meat or gluten meat, has long been a staple of the vegan and vegetarian diet. Made from the protein component of wheat, seitan is a remarkably versatile ingredient, often celebrated for its uncanny ability to mimic the texture of meat, specifically chicken.

When cooked right, seitan can be tender and juicy, absorbing the flavors of the marinades and seasonings it’s paired with. It’s also a fantastic source of protein, with an impressive 25 grams per 3.5-ounce serving. Now, if you’re wondering how to incorporate seitan into your diet in a delicious, gourmet style, this post is for you.

We’re bringing you 10 meal prep ideas, transforming seitan into delicious, high-protein, chicken-alternative dishes. So let’s begin:

1. Seitan ‘Chicken’ Parmesan

Turn your traditional Chicken Parmesan into a delightful plant-based dish with seitan.

  • Serving Size: 250g
  • Macros (per serving): 320 calories, 25g protein, 35g carbs, 9g fat
  • Preparation time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking instructions: Begin by sautéing your seitan slices in a pan with some olive oil until they’re golden and crispy. Set these aside and in the same pan, prepare a tomato sauce with garlic, onions, canned tomatoes, and fresh basil. Once this has simmered down, add the seitan back in and sprinkle a generous helping of vegan cheese on top. Pop this into the oven until the cheese is melty and slightly browned. Serve this over a bed of whole wheat spaghetti.
  • Best time to eat: Lunch or dinner
  • Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.

2. Teriyaki Seitan Stir-fry

This Asian-inspired dish brings a medley of flavors and textures, perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or dinner.

  • Serving Size: 300g
  • Macros (per serving): 350 calories, 28g protein, 40g carbs, 8g fat
  • Preparation time: 25 minutes
  • Cooking instructions: Start by preparing your teriyaki sauce by combining soy sauce, rice vinegar, a sweetener like maple syrup, and a bit of cornstarch in a bowl. In a hot pan, sauté your seitan pieces until they’re browned and slightly crispy. Remove these and add in a medley of your favorite stir-fry veggies – think bell peppers, snap peas, and broccoli. Once these are tender, add the seitan back in and pour the sauce over, letting everything simmer until the sauce thickens. Serve over a bed of brown rice.
  • Best time to eat: Lunch or dinner
  • Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop before serving.

3. Seitan ‘Chicken’ and Quinoa Salad

This protein-packed salad is not only delicious but is also quick and easy to prepare.

  • Serving Size: 250g
  • Macros (per serving): 310 calories, 25g protein, 30g carbs, 9g fat
  • Preparation time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking instructions: Begin by pan-grilling your seitan ‘chicken’ strips until they’re slightly crispy on the edges. Simultaneously, prepare your quinoa as per packet instructions. Once done, toss the quinoa, seitan, and your choice of greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives in a large salad bowl. Drizzle with a lemon vinaigrette and enjoy a satisfyingly fresh meal.
  • Best time to eat: Lunch or dinner
  • Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This dish is best served cold.

4. Barbecue Seitan ‘Chicken’ Skewers

These skewers are perfect for a protein-packed plant-based barbecue.

  • Serving Size: 300g
  • Macros (per serving): 350 calories, 27g protein, 45g carbs, 8g fat
  • Preparation time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
  • Cooking instructions: Slice seitan into large chunks and marinate in your favorite BBQ sauce for at least two hours. Thread the seitan onto skewers, alternating with peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes. Grill until seitan is slightly charred and vegetables are tender. Serve with a fresh salad or grilled corn on the cob.
  • Best time to eat: Dinner
  • Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the grill or in the oven before serving.

5. Hearty Seitan ‘Chicken’ Noodle Soup

Comfort food at its best, this soup will fill you up without weighing you down.

  • Serving Size: 350g
  • Macros (per serving): 320 calories, 27g protein, 40g carbs, 7g fat
  • Preparation time: 35 minutes
  • Cooking instructions: Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and carrots in a large pot. Add in chunks of seitan and lightly brown them. Pour in vegetable broth, bay leaves, thyme, and your choice of noodles. Let this simmer until the noodles are cooked and the flavors meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
  • Best time to eat: Dinner
  • Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove before serving.

6. ‘Chicken’ Caesar Salad with Seitan

This vegan spin on a classic dish is sure to delight.

  • Serving Size: 250g
  • Macros (per serving): 330 calories, 26g protein, 35g carbs, 10g fat
  • Preparation time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking instructions: Pan-fry your seitan until it’s crispy and golden. Set it aside to cool. For the Caesar dressing, blend together cashews soaked overnight, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, capers, and a garlic clove. Arrange Romaine lettuce on a plate, sprinkle over the seitan, and drizzle with the Caesar dressing. Top with some vegan Parmesan shavings and enjoy.
  • Best time to eat: Lunch or dinner
  • Storage instructions: Store the salad and dressing separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble when ready to serve.

7. Spicy Seitan ‘Chicken’ Tacos

These tacos offer a satisfying crunch and a kick of heat.

  • Serving Size: 3 tacos
  • Macros (per serving): 350 calories, 28g protein, 40g carbs, 8g fat
  • Preparation time: 30 minutes
  • Cooking instructions: Sauté seitan strips with onion, bell pepper, and a blend of spices like smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder. Once the seitan is crispy and the spices are well absorbed, assemble your tacos with a base of the seitan mixture, a handful of shredded lettuce, and a dollop of salsa and vegan sour cream.
  • Best time to eat: Dinner
  • Storage instructions: Store the seitan mixture separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble the tacos when ready to serve.

8. Thai Green Curry with Seitan ‘Chicken’

This creamy and spicy curry is packed with authentic Thai flavors.

  • Serving Size: 350g
  • Macros (per serving): 360 calories, 26g protein, 40g carbs, 12g fat
  • Preparation time: 35 minutes
  • Cooking instructions: In a large pot, sauté green curry paste until fragrant. Add in coconut milk and let it simmer. Add seitan chunks, bell peppers, and snap peas. Let it cook until the vegetables are tender and the seitan has absorbed the curry flavors. Serve this aromatic dish with a side of steamed jasmine rice.
  • Best time to eat: Dinner
  • Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove before serving.

9. Seitan ‘Chicken’ and Vegetable Stir-fry

A quick and easy dish, perfect for those busy weeknights.

  • Serving Size: 300g
  • Macros (per serving): 340 calories, 28g protein, 38g carbs, 9g fat
  • Preparation time: 25 minutes
  • Cooking instructions: In a hot wok, stir-fry your seitan strips until they’re browned. Set these aside and in the same wok, stir-fry an assortment of your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, bok choy, and sugar snap peas. Add the seitan back in and season with soy sauce and a bit of sesame oil. Serve this colorful dish over brown rice or noodles.
  • Best time to eat: Lunch or dinner
  • Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove before serving.

10. Baked Seitan ‘Chicken’ with Roasted Vegetables

A wholesome and hearty meal, ideal for Sunday lunch.

  • Serving Size: 350g
  • Macros (per serving): 380 calories, 30g protein, 45g carbs, 10g fat
  • Preparation time: 45 minutes
  • Cooking instructions: Marinate seitan chunks in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for at least two hours. Arrange these on a baking tray along with an assortment of vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers. Roast in the oven until the seitan is golden and the vegetables are tender.
  • Best time to eat: Lunch or dinner
  • Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.

There you have it – a delicious selection of plant-based meals using seitan ‘chicken’ as your primary protein source. Each meal is easy to prepare, packed with nutrition, and full of flavor. As always, feel free to share your personal variations or new creations in the comments. Who knows, you might inspire someone to try their hand at plant-based cooking. Happy meal prepping, and enjoy your journey to a healthier lifestyle. Don’t forget to share your experience and the post with your friends!

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Using Tempeh Instead of Beef: 10 Plant-Based High Protein Meal Prep Ideas

traditional asian soy product in ceramic plate

Beef is a protein-rich staple in many diets, but for those following a plant-based lifestyle or simply trying to reduce their meat intake, finding an equally satisfying and nutritious substitute can be challenging. That’s where tempeh comes in.

Hailing from Indonesia, tempeh is a fermented soy product that’s packed with protein, fiber, and a variety of essential nutrients. It has a firm, meaty texture that holds up well in a range of dishes, making it a perfect substitute for beef.

If you’re new to cooking with tempeh, here are some tips to help you get started:

  • Steaming or simmering tempeh for about 10 minutes before using it in a recipe can help to remove its slightly bitter taste.
  • Tempeh absorbs marinades and sauces well, so don’t be afraid to get creative with flavors.
  • Because it’s fermented, tempeh is more easily digestible than other soy products, making it a great choice for those with sensitive digestion.

Now, let’s move onto the delicious high-protein meal prep ideas!

1. Tempeh ‘Beef’ Stir-Fry

Tempeh soaks up flavors remarkably well, making it an excellent choice for a saucy, veggie-packed stir-fry.

  • Serving Size: 400g
  • Macros (per serving): 450 calories, 28g protein, 40g carbs, 20g fat
  • Preparation time: 35 minutes
  • Cooking instructions: Start by steaming your tempeh for about 10 minutes to remove any bitterness. Then, cube the tempeh and toss it in soy sauce, sesame oil, and a dash of rice vinegar. Heat some oil in a large pan or wok, then add the tempeh, along with a mix of your favorite stir-fry veggies — bell peppers, broccoli, and snow peas are all great choices. Stir-fry until the veggies are tender and the tempeh is well-coated in sauce. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
  • Best time to eat: Lunch or dinner
  • Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

2. ‘Beefy’ Tempeh Tacos

Who doesn’t love a good taco night? These tempeh ‘beef’ tacos are sure to satisfy your craving for something savory and spicy.

  • Serving Size: 3 tacos (approx. 300g)
  • Macros (per serving): 380 calories, 24g protein, 30g carbs, 20g fat
  • Preparation time: 30 minutes
  • Cooking instructions: Begin by crumbling your tempeh into a hot pan with a little oil. Once it starts to brown, add a mix of traditional taco seasonings like cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. You can also stir in a bit of salsa for extra flavor. Cook until the tempeh is crispy and well-seasoned, then spoon it onto warm corn tortillas. Top with lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado slices, and a squeeze of fresh lime.
  • Best time to eat: Lunch or dinner
  • Storage instructions: Store the cooked tempeh and prepped veggies separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble the tacos just before serving.

3. Tempeh ‘Beef’ and Broccoli

A plant-based take on a classic Chinese dish, this tempeh ‘beef’ and broccoli delivers plenty of protein and heartwarming comfort.

  • Serving Size: 350g
  • Macros (per serving): 400 calories, 26g protein, 40g carbs, 16g fat
  • Preparation time: 35 minutes
  • Cooking instructions: First, steam your tempeh and cut it into thin strips. Sauté these in a hot pan with some oil until they’re brown and crispy. Set these aside and, in the same pan, stir-fry your broccoli florets until they’re vibrant and just tender. For the sauce, mix soy sauce, a touch of brown sugar, and a slurry of cornstarch and water. Pour this over the broccoli, add the tempeh back in, and toss everything together until it’s well-coated and the sauce has thickened. Serve hot over a bed of steamed rice.
  • Best time to eat: Lunch or dinner
  • Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

4. BBQ Tempeh ‘Beef’ Sandwiches

Perfect for picnics or a casual lunch, these BBQ tempeh ‘beef’ sandwiches are bursting with smoky-sweet flavor.

  • Serving Size: 1 sandwich (approx. 200g)
  • Macros (per serving): 320 calories, 20g protein, 40g carbs, 10g fat
  • Preparation time: 30 minutes
  • Cooking instructions: Slice your tempeh and marinate it in your favorite BBQ sauce for at least 30 minutes (the longer, the better!). In a pan, cook the tempeh slices until they’re caramelized and sticky. Build your sandwiches with a hearty bread, adding layers of the BBQ tempeh, crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and perhaps some tangy pickles. For an added crunch, serve with a side of sweet potato chips or a simple slaw.
  • Best time to eat: Lunch
  • Storage instructions: Store the cooked tempeh separately from the bread and veggies in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble the sandwiches just before serving.

5. Tempeh ‘Beef’ Skewers

With a firm texture and ability to hold onto marinades, tempeh makes excellent skewers, perfect for grilling season.

  • Serving Size: 2 skewers (approx. 250g)
  • Macros (per serving): 360 calories, 22g protein, 30g carbs, 18g fat
  • Preparation time: 40 minutes (plus marinating time)
  • Cooking instructions: Cube your tempeh and marinate it in a flavorful blend of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of maple syrup. After at least an hour (or overnight, if you have time), thread the tempeh cubes onto skewers, alternating with pieces of bell pepper, onion, and cherry tomatoes. Grill these until the veggies are charred and the tempeh is heated through. These skewers are perfectly served over a bed of fluffy quinoa or alongside a fresh garden salad.
  • Best time to eat: Lunch or dinner
  • Storage instructions: Store the cooked skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the grill or in the oven before serving.

6. Tempeh ‘Beef’ Stroganoff

A creamy, comforting dish perfect for colder days, this plant-based stroganoff swaps traditional beef for protein-packed tempeh.

  • Serving Size: 350g
  • Macros (per serving): 420 calories, 24g protein, 45g carbs, 18g fat
  • Preparation time: 40 minutes
  • Cooking instructions: Begin by steaming and cubing your tempeh. Sauté it in a pan with oil until browned, then remove it from the pan. In the same pan, cook sliced onions and mushrooms until softened. Add a sprinkle of flour and pour in vegetable broth, stirring to create a creamy sauce. Add the tempeh back in and let it simmer for a few minutes to absorb the flavors. Stir in a dollop of vegan sour cream and serve over egg-free egg noodles or mashed potatoes.
  • Best time to eat: Lunch or dinner
  • Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

7. Smoky Tempeh ‘Beef’ Chili

A bowl of chili is always a hearty, comforting meal. This version uses tempeh for a protein-packed, plant-based twist.

  • Serving Size: 400g
  • Macros (per serving): 450 calories, 30g protein, 50g carbs, 15g fat
  • Preparation time: 45 minutes
  • Cooking instructions: Crumble your tempeh into a hot pot and sauté until it starts to brown. Add diced onions, bell peppers, and garlic, cooking until they’re softened. Stir in a mix of spices like cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Pour in canned diced tomatoes and kidney beans, bringing the pot to a simmer. Let it cook for about 30 minutes until the flavors have melded together. Serve with a sprinkle of green onions and a side of cornbread for a complete meal.
  • Best time to eat: Lunch or dinner
  • Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

8. Tempeh ‘Beef’ Lettuce Wraps

For a lighter, low-carb option, try these tempeh ‘beef’ lettuce wraps. They’re fresh, crunchy, and full of flavor.

  • Serving Size: 4 lettuce wraps (approx. 200g)
  • Macros (per serving): 300 calories, 20g protein, 15g carbs, 18g fat
  • Preparation time: 30 minutes
  • Cooking instructions: Crumble and sauté your tempeh until it’s browned. Mix in diced onions, bell peppers, and a sauce of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of sweetener. Cook until everything is well-coated and the veggies are tender. Spoon this mixture into crisp lettuce leaves (like romaine or butter lettuce) and garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
  • Best time to eat: Lunch or dinner
  • Storage instructions: Store the tempeh filling separately from the lettuce in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble the wraps just before serving.

9. Tempeh ‘Beef’ and Peppers

A simple, quick meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, this tempeh ‘beef’ and peppers dish is a protein-packed alternative to the traditional beef version.

  • Serving Size: 300g
  • Macros (per serving): 350 calories, 22g protein, 40g carbs, 14g fat
  • Preparation time: 30 minutes
  • Cooking instructions: Slice your tempeh and sauté it in a hot pan until it’s browned and crispy. Remove the tempeh and add sliced bell peppers and onions to the same pan, cooking until they’re tender and slightly charred. Mix up a sauce of soy sauce, vinegar, and a touch of sweetener, and pour this over the veggies. Add the tempeh back in, tossing everything together until it’s well-coated. Serve over a bed of brown rice or quinoa.
  • Best time to eat: Lunch or dinner
  • Storage instructions: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

10. Tempeh ‘Beef’ Tacos

Celebrate Taco Tuesday with these high-protein, plant-based tacos filled with flavorful tempeh ‘beef’.

  • Serving Size: 2 tacos (approx. 200g)
  • Macros (per serving): 360 calories, 20g protein, 45g carbs, 12g fat
  • Preparation time: 30 minutes
  • Cooking instructions: Crumble your tempeh and sauté it in a pan with taco seasoning until it’s browned and fragrant. Warm your tortillas and fill them with the tempeh, then top with your favorite taco fillings – think diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, avocado slices, and a drizzle of vegan sour cream or guacamole. You could also add some black beans or corn for extra fiber.
  • Best time to eat: Lunch or dinner
  • Storage instructions: Store the cooked tempeh separately from the tortillas and toppings in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble the tacos just before serving.

This concludes our exploration of tempeh as a high-protein beef substitute in 10 diverse, delectable meal prep ideas. We hope this post has inspired you to try out tempeh in your next meal prep! As always, feel free to share your experiences and variations in the comments below, and don’t hesitate to share this post with your friends who might find it useful. Stay tuned for the next post in our series, where we’ll be venturing into another exciting plant-based protein source. Happy cooking!