Barbeque Tempeh Sandwiches
Are you tired of the same old sandwich options? Looking for a delicious and hearty alternative? Look no further than barbeque tempeh sandwiches! These mouth-watering sandwiches are packed with flavor and are a perfect choice for vegans and meat lovers alike.
What is Tempeh?
Tempeh is a traditional Indonesian food made from fermented soybeans. It has a unique nutty flavor and a firm texture, making it an excellent meat substitute. Not only is tempeh delicious, but it is also packed with protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients.
The Perfect Barbeque Sauce
The key to a fantastic barbeque tempeh sandwich lies in the sauce. A tangy and smoky barbeque sauce can take your sandwich to the next level. Whether you prefer a store-bought sauce or want to make your own, be sure to choose one that complements the flavors of the tempeh.
Store-Bought Sauce Options
If you’re short on time or prefer convenience, there are plenty of delicious store-bought barbeque sauce options available. Look for a sauce that is bold and flavorful, with a balance of sweet and tangy notes. You can experiment with different brands and flavors to find your favorite.
Homemade Sauce
Making your own barbeque sauce allows you to customize the flavors to your liking. Start with a base of ketchup or tomato sauce and add ingredients like brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and spices such as paprika and garlic powder. Don’t be afraid to get creative and adjust the ingredients to suit your taste.
Preparing the Tempeh
Before you can assemble your barbeque tempeh sandwich, you’ll need to prepare the tempeh. Start by cutting the tempeh into thin slices or small cubes. This will help the tempeh absorb the flavors of the barbeque sauce and ensure a more even cooking process.
Marinating the Tempeh
To infuse the tempeh with flavor, marinate it in the barbeque sauce for at least 30 minutes. This will allow the tempeh to soak up the delicious sauce and become tender and flavorful. You can marinate the tempeh in a bowl or a zip-top bag for easy cleanup.
Cooking the Tempeh
Once the tempeh has marinated, it’s time to cook it to perfection. You can grill the tempeh on a barbeque or cook it in a skillet on the stovetop. Both methods will result in a deliciously charred and smoky flavor. Cook the tempeh until it is firm and slightly crispy on the outside.
Assembling the Sandwich
Now that your tempeh is cooked and bursting with flavor, it’s time to assemble your barbeque tempeh sandwich. Start with a hearty bun or bread of your choice. Spread a generous amount of barbeque sauce on both sides of the bun. Layer the cooked tempeh on the bottom bun and top it with your favorite sandwich toppings, such as pickles, lettuce, and onions.
Serving Suggestions
Barbeque tempeh sandwiches are versatile and can be served with a variety of side dishes. Pair your sandwich with a side of coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. The flavors of the tempeh and the barbeque sauce will complement the sides perfectly.
Leftover Tempeh
If you have leftover cooked tempeh, don’t let it go to waste. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can use the leftover tempeh in salads, stir-fries, or even as a topping for pizzas. The possibilities are endless!
In Conclusion
Barbeque tempeh sandwiches are a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional meat-based sandwiches. With their bold and smoky flavors, they are sure to satisfy even the most discerning taste buds. Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or meat lover, give barbeque tempeh sandwiches a try and discover a whole new world of sandwich greatness.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze tempeh?
Yes, tempeh can be frozen for up to three months. To freeze tempeh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Thaw the frozen tempeh in the refrigerator before using it.
2. How can I make the tempeh even more flavorful?
If you want to amp up the flavor of your tempeh, try marinating it overnight. This will allow the tempeh to absorb even more of the delicious flavors from the sauce.
3. Can I make barbeque tempeh sandwiches ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the sandwiches ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to two days. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap to keep them fresh.
4. Can I use tempeh in other recipes?
Definitely! Tempeh is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes. You can crumble it and use it as a substitute for ground meat in dishes like tacos or chili, or slice it and add it to stir-fries or salads.
5. Can I grill tempeh without marinating it?
While marinating the tempeh adds flavor, you can still grill it without marinating. Just make sure to brush the tempeh with some barbeque sauce while grilling to enhance the taste.
6. How can I make the barbeque sauce spicier?
If you prefer a spicier barbeque sauce, you can add ingredients like cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce to the sauce. Adjust the amount of spice to your personal preference.
Barbeque Tempeh Sandwiches
Ingredients
- 1 cup of your preferred barbecue sauce
- 1 package (8 ounces) of crumbled tempeh
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper , seeded and chopped
- 1 green bell pepper , seeded and chopped
- 1 medium-sized onion , chopped
- 4 kaiser rolls , split and toasted
Instructions
- Place the barbeque sauce in a medium-sized bowl.
- Break the tempeh into small pieces and add it to the sauce. Allow it to marinate for approximately 10 minutes.
- In a skillet, heat some oil over medium heat.
- Add the red and green peppers, as well as the onion to the skillet. Cook and stir frequently until they become tender.
- Stir in the marinated tempeh and barbeque sauce mixture, and heat it through.
- Using a spoon, place the tempeh mixture onto kaiser rolls.
- Serve and enjoy.
