Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Tempeh and White Bean Breakfast Sausage Patties?
They are a protein-packed, plant-based alternative to traditional breakfast sausage made from tempeh, white beans, and aromatic herbs.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, the recipe uses entirely plant-based ingredients and is suitable for a vegan diet.
How much protein is in each serving?
Each serving contains 8g of protein.
What are the primary ingredients?
The main components are 1 lb of tempeh, 1 cup of cooked white beans, tamari, and breadcrumbs.
How do I prepare the tempeh for this recipe?
You should crumble the tempeh into bite-sized pieces and steam it in a saucepan with a little water and tamari for about 15 minutes.
Can I use soy sauce instead of tamari?
Yes, soy sauce can be used as a direct substitute for tamari in this recipe.
How long does it take to steam the tempeh?
The tempeh should be simmered for about 15 minutes until most of the water is absorbed.
Why is the tempeh steamed first?
Steaming softens the tempeh and helps it absorb the tamari flavor while removing any natural bitterness.
What type of beans should I use?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of cooked white beans, which should be mashed slightly.
How should I mash the bean and tempeh mixture?
Use a potato masher or a fork until the mixture is slightly chunky, ensuring no whole beans remain.
Should I use a food processor to combine the ingredients?
It is better to mash by hand because you want a chunky texture rather than a smooth puree.
What spices give these patties their flavor?
The flavor comes from minced garlic, crushed fennel seeds, fresh thyme, fresh sage, cayenne pepper, and ground nutmeg.
How much fat is in one serving?
Each serving contains 5g of fat.
How many calories are in these patties?
There are 120 calories per serving.
What is the purpose of the tomato paste in this recipe?
Tomato paste adds depth of flavor, umami, and helps with the color and binding of the patties.
How do I cook the patties?
Fry them in a skillet with olive oil over medium heat for about 3 minutes on each side until browned.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but use approximately one-third of the amount of dried herbs compared to the fresh herbs listed.
What is the role of breadcrumbs in the recipe?
Breadcrumbs act as a binder to help the patties hold their shape during cooking.
How much carbohydrates are in a serving?
Each serving contains 12g of carbohydrates.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
The recipe requires 2 minced garlic cloves.
Is there any cholesterol in these patties?
No, these plant-based patties contain 0mg of cholesterol.
How should I form the patties?
Use approximately 3 tablespoons of the mixture for each patty.
Why should I let the mixture rest for 15 minutes?
Resting allows the breadcrumbs to hydrate and the flavors to meld together for better taste and texture.
What can I serve these patties with?
They are great in breakfast sandwiches, alongside eggs or tofu scrambles, or as a high-protein snack.
Do I need to add extra oil while cooking?
You may need to add a bit more oil when flipping the patties to ensure they crisp up nicely.
Are these patties spicy?
They have a very mild heat from a pinch of cayenne, but you can adjust the amount to your preference.
What should I do if the mixture is too dry?
If the mixture doesn't hold together, you can add a tiny amount of water or an extra teaspoon of tamari.
Can I freeze these sausage patties?
Yes, you can freeze them either before or after cooking; just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
How do I store leftovers?
Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days.
What ingredient provides the classic sausage flavor?
The combination of fennel seeds and sage is what gives these patties their traditional breakfast sausage taste.