Vegan delight: easy general tso tempeh recipe for plant-based pleasure

Craving the bold flavors of General Tso’s chicken but seeking a healthier, plant-based alternative? Look no further than this delectable General Tso Tempeh recipe. This dish offers a tantalizing blend of sweet, savory, and spicy notes that will satisfy any craving.

Ingredients:

• 1 block (14 ounces) tempeh, crumbled
• 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tempeh: Crumble the tempeh into a large bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, soy sauce, vegetable broth, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic powder, and black pepper. Pour the wet ingredients over the tempeh and stir to coat evenly.

2. Fry the Tempeh: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tempeh mixture and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per side.

3. Make the Sauce: In a small saucepan, whisk together all the sauce ingredients. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

4. Combine the Tempeh and Sauce: Add the fried tempeh to the saucepan with the sauce. Stir to coat the tempeh evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the tempeh is heated through.

5. Serve: Serve the General Tso Tempeh hot over rice or noodles. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor.

Nutritional Benefits of Tempeh:

• High in Protein: Tempeh is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids.
• Rich in Fiber: Tempeh is a good source of dietary fiber, which helps promote digestive health and satiety.
• Contains Prebiotics: Tempeh contains prebiotics, which feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut and support a healthy microbiome.
• Good Source of Iron: Tempeh is a good source of iron, which is essential for red blood cell production.

Variations:

• Spicy Tempeh: Add an extra 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicier dish.
• Baked Tempeh: Instead of frying, bake the tempeh at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy.
• Add Vegetables: Sauté some bell peppers, onions, or broccoli and add them to the sauce for an extra dose of vegetables.

How to Store Leftovers:

Store any leftover General Tso Tempeh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Wrap-Up:

This General Tso Tempeh recipe is a delicious and nutritious plant-based alternative to the classic Chinese dish. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So next time you’re craving General Tso’s, give this tempeh version a try. You won’t be disappointed!

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: Can I use tofu instead of tempeh?
A: Yes, you can use extra-firm tofu as a substitute for tempeh. Crumble the tofu and press out any excess water before using it.

Q: What is a good side dish to serve with General Tso Tempeh?
A: Rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables are all great side dishes to complement the bold flavors of General Tso Tempeh.

Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free soy sauce and cornstarch to make this dish gluten-free. You can also use tamari instead of soy sauce.