Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that’s as delicious as it is nutritious? Dive into the vibrant flavors of our Balsamic Orange Glazed Tempeh—a vegan delight that will leave your taste buds dancing! With a perfect balance of tangy balsamic vinegar and sweet orange juice, this recipe brings out the best in tempeh, transforming it into a mouthwatering centerpiece for any meal. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to add more plant-based options to your table, this dish is sure to impress. Read on to discover how to create this culinary masterpiece in just 35 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package tempeh, sliced
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the tempeh. Remove the tempeh from its packaging and slice it into 1/2-inch thick rectangular or triangular pieces to ensure even cooking and maximum glaze absorption.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, fresh orange juice, maple syrup, olive oil, salt, and black pepper to create a vibrant marinade. Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Place the tempeh slices in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Allow the tempeh to marinate for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even coating. This will help the tempeh absorb the flavors.
- Heat a large non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Remove the tempeh from the marinade, reserving the remaining liquid. Carefully place the tempeh slices in the hot skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown caramelized exterior.
- Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer the tempeh in the sauce for an additional 5-7 minutes, occasionally spooning the glaze over the pieces to create a rich, sticky coating.
- Once the sauce has reduced and the tempeh is glazed and slightly crispy, remove from heat. The glaze should be thick and clinging to the tempeh pieces.
- Transfer the glazed tempeh to a serving platter and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
- Serve immediately while warm, optionally alongside roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad to complete the meal.
Tips
- Slice for Success: Ensure your tempeh is sliced evenly into 1/2-inch pieces for consistent cooking and optimal glaze absorption. This will help create that perfect caramelized texture.
- Marinate Wisely: Don’t rush the marinating process! Allow the tempeh to soak in the marinade for at least 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally. This step is crucial for infusing the flavors deeply into the tempeh.
- Heat Control: When cooking the tempeh, maintain medium-high heat for a golden-brown exterior, but be careful not to burn it. If necessary, adjust the heat to ensure even cooking.
- Glaze It Up: For a richer flavor, spoon the reserved marinade over the tempeh as it simmers. This will help create a thick, sticky glaze that clings beautifully to each piece.
- Garnish for Freshness: Don’t skip the fresh parsley garnish! It adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness that complements the dish perfectly.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your glazed tempeh with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal that’s both healthy and delicious!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 16g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
