Tempeh Satay with Peanut Sauce: A Flavor-Packed Vegan Delight

If you’re looking for a delicious, savory, and slightly spicy dish that’s completely plant-based, this Tempeh Satay with Peanut Sauce is for you! Made with marinated, crispy tempeh skewers and a rich, creamy peanut sauce, this recipe is perfect as an appetizer, snack, or main dish. The best part? It’s made without maple syrup, relying on natural sweetness and bold flavors to shine. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful dish:

For the Tempeh Satay:

Tempeh: 1 block (8 ounces), cut into cubes or strips.
Soy sauce: 3 tablespoons (use tamari for a gluten-free option).
Lime juice: Juice of 1 lime (for brightness).
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced.
Ginger: 1 teaspoon, grated (optional but recommended).
Smoked paprika: ½ teaspoon (for a smoky flavor).
Skewers: Wooden or metal (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes beforehand).

For the Peanut Sauce:

Peanut butter: ¼ cup (use creamy or crunchy, depending on your preference).
Soy sauce: 2 tablespoons.
Lime juice: Juice of 1 lime.
Garlic: 1 clove, minced.
Ginger: 1 teaspoon, grated.
Sriracha or chili flakes: ½ teaspoon (optional, for heat).
Water: 2-3 tablespoons (to thin the sauce to your desired consistency).

For Serving (Optional):

Steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles.
Sliced cucumbers, carrots, or bell peppers.
Fresh cilantro or chopped peanuts for garnish.

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Tempeh

In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, and smoked paprika.
Add the tempeh cubes or strips to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 20-30 minutes (or longer for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Prepare the Peanut Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, and sriracha or chili flakes (if using).
Gradually add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. It should be creamy but pourable. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 3: Cook the Tempeh

Thread the marinated tempeh onto skewers.
Heat a grill pan, skillet, or outdoor grill over medium heat. Lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking.
Cook the tempeh skewers for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and slightly crispy.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Arrange the tempeh skewers on a plate and drizzle generously with the peanut sauce.
Serve with steamed rice, fresh veggies, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Garnish with chopped peanuts, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice for extra flavor.

Tips and Variations

Make it nut-free: Substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini.
Add veggies: Include bell peppers, zucchini, or onions on the skewers for a colorful twist.
Meal prep-friendly: Double the recipe and store the tempeh and peanut sauce separately for quick meals throughout the week.
Spice level: Adjust the amount of sriracha or chili flakes to suit your taste.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This Tempeh Satay with Peanut Sauce is a crowd-pleaser that’s packed with flavor and texture. The tempeh is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, while the peanut sauce is creamy, tangy, and savory. It’s a versatile dish that works for parties, weeknight dinners, or even as a protein-packed snack.

Whether you’re a tempeh enthusiast or new to this plant-based protein, this recipe is sure to win you over. Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments below!

Happy cooking! 🌱

Order Tempeh blocks at www.artisantempeh.ca