Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Tempeh Sukiyaki Stir-Fry?
It is a nutritious one-pan dish featuring protein-rich tempeh and a variety of vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower, inspired by traditional Japanese sukiyaki flavors.
Is this Tempeh Sukiyaki recipe vegan?
The recipe can be made vegan by omitting the honey or replacing it with a plant-based sweetener like maple syrup or agave.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free tamari and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is a gluten-free variety.
How should the tempeh be prepared before marinating?
The tempeh should be steamed for 10 minutes and then cut into thin strips.
How long should the tempeh marinate?
Let the tempeh sit in the marinade for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.
What ingredients are in the marinade?
The marinade consists of tamari, mirin, Worcestershire sauce, honey, and finely minced fresh ginger.
What vegetables are used in this stir-fry?
This recipe uses broccoli florets, cauliflower, carrots, onions, green peppers, and celery.
How do I cook the broccoli and cauliflower?
Blanch them in boiling vegetable stock for one minute to ensure they stay vibrant and slightly crisp.
Should I throw away the vegetable stock after boiling the vegetables?
No, reserve the stock as it is used later to create the sauce for the stir-fry.
What is the best way to fry the tempeh?
Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat and fry the tempeh strips in a single layer until they are golden brown on both sides.
How are the carrots prepared?
The carrots should be cut into thin matchsticks.
What can I serve with Tempeh Sukiyaki Stir-Fry?
It is best served hot over a bed of brown rice to soak up the savory sauce.
What is the role of arrowroot in this recipe?
Arrowroot is listed as an optional ingredient used for thickening the sukiyaki sauce.
Can I substitute tamari with soy sauce?
Yes, soy sauce can be used as a 1:1 substitute for tamari, though tamari is typically used for a gluten-free option.
How long does it take to stir-fry the onions and peppers?
Stir-fry the onions and green peppers for about 3-4 minutes until they are slightly softened.
Why is the ginger minced?
Mincing the ginger allows its flavor to distribute evenly throughout the marinade and the final dish.
What kind of onion should I use?
The recipe calls for one large onion cut into thin wedges.
Is mirin necessary for this recipe?
Mirin adds a traditional Japanese sweetness and depth to the sukiyaki sauce, which is central to the dish's flavor profile.
How much vegetable stock is required?
You will need 1 cup of vegetable stock.
How do I ensure the vegetables don't get mushy?
By blanching the carrots, broccoli, and cauliflower for only one minute and adding them back at the very end just to heat through.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Fresh vegetables are recommended for the best texture, but frozen can be used if thawed and drained properly.
What is the total amount of oil used?
The recipe uses a total of 4 tablespoons of oil: 2 for frying the tempeh and 2 for stir-frying the vegetables.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is packed with plant-based protein from tempeh and a wide variety of fiber-rich vegetables.
How do I cut the celery?
The celery should be thinly sliced.
Can I add other proteins to this stir-fry?
While tempeh is the star, you could also add tofu or seitan if desired.
What does 'umami' mean in the context of this dish?
Umami refers to the savory, 'fifth' taste provided by the tamari and Worcestershire sauce.
How many grams of protein are in this dish?
The specific nutritional data for protein is not provided, but tempeh is a high-protein legume product.
What part of the broccoli should I use?
Use the florets, which are the flowery head parts of the broccoli.
Is this dish spicy?
No, it is savory and slightly sweet. For heat, you would need to add chili flakes or hot sauce separately.
How should I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or stock to maintain the texture of the vegetables.