What is tempeh? Taste, production, and preparation

Created on: July 16, 2026
Last edited on: July 16, 2026

Tempeh is a traditional Indonesian fermented food, usually made from whole soybeans. It is considered a versatile vegan protein source and impresses with its characteristic nutty flavor and firm texture.

An overview with pictures can be found here:

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How is tempeh made?

Tempeh is typically made from whole soybeans that are cooked and then fermented with a noble mold, binding them into a firm block. This creates a protein- and fiber-rich food.

Other legumes can also form the base of tempeh. Increasingly, variants made from beans or chickpeas are also found. The basic principle remains the same: the legumes are cooked and then fermented.

What does tempeh taste like?

Many describe the taste as:

• nutty
• savory
• slightly mushroomy
• pleasantly spicy

Due to its firm structure, tempeh absorbs marinades particularly well.

Is tempeh healthy?

Tempeh is considered a particularly nutrient-rich plant-based protein source. Among other things, it provides:

• high-quality plant protein
• fiber
• iron
• magnesium
• potassium
• folate
• unsaturated fats

Unlike animal meat, tempeh contains valuable fiber, no cholesterol, and above all, no animal slavery! 

During fermentation, spermidine is also produced. This natural substance is currently being intensively researched and linked in studies to healthy aging processes.

How can tempeh be prepared? 

Tempeh is very versatile and can be used in many dishes. You can eat it plain or lightly fried on bread - for example, with hummus or nut butter.
Tempeh tastes especially good if you cut it into cubes or strips, fry it until crispy, and serve it with a peanut, sesame, or teriyaki sauce with rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables.
It is also well-suited as a plant-based ground meat alternative: simply crumble, pan-fry until well-browned, and use for tacos, burritos, chili, or bolognese.
Marinated and pan-fried until golden brown, tempeh also makes a perfect protein-rich topping for bowls, salads, or curries. 

Where can you buy tempeh?

Tempeh is now available in many supermarkets. For example, at:

• Walmart
• Lidl
• Loblaws
• Coles
• Asian stores (often particularly affordable, though the soy may not always come from Europe)

 

Tempeh or tofu: What's the difference?

Although both tofu and tempeh are usually made from soy, they differ significantly. Tofu is obtained - similar to cow's milk cheese - by coagulating soy milk. It has a comparatively soft, smooth texture. 

In contrast, with tempeh, the whole beans remain intact. The fermentation process gives tempeh it its special bite and more intense flavor. Many people therefore find tempeh more filling and more interesting in taste. 

It cannot be universally said whether tempeh or tofu is better. It always depends on personal taste and which nutritional values are being compared. Tofu, for example, can contain significantly more calcium due to its production method (see NUTRIENT GUIDE 6.2). We therefore recommend integrating both foods into a balanced plant-based diet.

Can you eat tempeh raw?

Most tempeh products sold in supermarkets are pasteurized or otherwise heat-treated and can generally be consumed directly by healthy adults. However, many manufacturers still recommend heating tempeh thoroughly before eating - especially for pregnant women, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems. The same applies to tofu, by the way.

Conclusion: Is tempeh worth it?

Tempeh is much more than just "tofu by another name." It is a traditional fermented food made from whole legumes that impresses with its high protein content, plenty of fiber, and savory taste. If you're looking for a plant-based protein source that is filling, versatile, and easy to prepare, it's definitely worth trying tempeh.

Do you want to meet your protein needs plant-based? → Find more information about tempeh and other vegan protein sources in our free PROTEIN GUIDE.

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