Tempeh’s firm texture makes it perfect for the grill, and its blandness allows it to pick up bold marinade flavors. A tempeh marinade can also become a quick dressing, no further cooking required. Tempeh’s firm texture makes it perfect for
Tempeh’s firm texture makes it perfect for the grill, and its blandness allows it to pick up bold marinade flavors. A tempeh marinade can also become a quick dressing, no further cooking required.
Tempeh kebabs with cilantro-lime sauce
Adapted from “The New Persian Kitchen” by Louisa Shafia (Ten Speed Press, 2013).
Makes six servings
5 scallions, green and white parts, minced
1/2 cup oil
1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice (3 to 4 large limes)
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon sea salt
2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
1 pound tempeh, cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes
1 pint cherry tomatoes
1 cup loosely packed fresh mint leaves
1 cup loosely packed fresh cilantro
1/3 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons sumac, for garnish (optional)
In a shallow casserole dish, whisk together scallions, oil, lime juice, turmeric, garlic, salt and pepper. Add tempeh and toss to coat. Cover dish and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or up to 2 days.
If using wooden or bamboo skewers, soak in water for at least 2 hours before grilling. Thread tempeh and tomatoes onto skewers, leaving 2 inches of space at one end. (You should have enough for six 12-inch skewers.)
Reserve 1/4 cup of remaining marinade for basting, and pour rest into a blender. Add mint, cilantro and yogurt. Blend until smooth to make the sauce, tasting and seasoning with more salt, if needed.
Prepare a grill for direct heat.
Grill skewers, basting a few times with the reserved marinade, until tempeh begins to char, 4 to 5 minutes per side. (Alternatively, cook kabobs indoors, under the broiler or on a grill pan over high heat.)
Transfer skewers to a serving platter and spoon sauce on top or serve it on the side for dipping, along with rice and salad greens. Garnish skewers with sprinkles of sumac, if desired.
Nutrition: Per serving: 340 calories, 16 g protein, 14 g carbohydrates, 27 g fat, 4 g saturated fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 380 mg sodium, 2 g dietary fiber, 3 g sugar.
