Turmeric Tempeh Tamarind Sauce

Here is a delightful variation to explore the versatility of tempeh: Tempeh with Tamarind Sauce. Tempeh, with its ability to absorb and adapt to the flavors it is paired with, becomes a perfect canvas for culinary creativity. This healthy, fermented staple is an essential addition to any pantry.

Adding to the dish’s vibrancy is turmeric, a truly remarkable and revered ingredient. In India, turmeric powder has been cherished for thousands of years for its boundless natural health benefits, held sacred in traditional practices. Recently, the West has embraced turmeric as a celebrated superfood, but in truth, all foods, in their natural essence, are superfoods.

As we reconnect with the nutritional wisdom of our ancestors, who lived harmoniously with nature, we rediscover how spices, vegetables, fruits, roots, and herbs have been instrumental in enhancing health and vitality. These gifts of nature, refined over centuries of use, have contributed to longevity and strength.

Let us rekindle our appreciation for this vibrant tradition with a dish that embodies nourishment and zest for life: Turmeric Tempeh with Tamarind Sauce, a blend that enriches both protein and magnesium in your diet.

Print Recipe

Turmeric Tempeh Tamarind Sauce

Appetizer – Indonesian

By Dada Shivananada – Serves: 2

Prep Time: 15 minutes – Cooking Time: 20 minutes – Total Time: 35 minutes

A tangy, vibrant tamarind sauce infused with turmeric, perfectly paired with crispy tempeh to deliver a burst of flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 block tempeh (250 grams for 2).
• Add more depending on the number of people you're serving.
• 1 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder.
• 1 teaspoon salt.

Instructions

1

Cut tempeh into 2 cm (1-inch) cubes.

2

Sprinkle turmeric powder and salt over the tempeh cubes, and gently toss until evenly coated.

3

Shallow fry the tempeh in coconut or roasted sesame oil in a large open pan until golden brown, then set aside.

4

Prepare the tamarind sauce and spoon it generously over the tempeh.

5

Garnish with mung bean or soy sprouts, grated or steamed cubed carrots, cucumber slices, and steamed broccoli for a visually stunning dish.

Nutrition

• 243.8 Calories
• 11.8g Carbohydrates
• 0.0mg Cholesterol
• 13.8g Fat
• 9.5g Fiber
• 23.8g Protein
• 1150.0mg Sodium
• 0.0g Trans fat

Notes

Most stores sell tempeh in blocks ranging from 250 g (8.8 oz) to 400 g (14 oz). This recipe allows you to fry, sauté, or bake the tempeh—and it can even be eaten raw. To bake, place the tempeh on a tray and bake in a preheated 400°F oven for 25 to 27 minutes. Alternatively, use an air fryer at 380°F for 12 to 15 minutes, tossing every 5 minutes.