It was a sun-drenched afternoon, and I found myself in the kitchen, reminiscing about my travels through vibrant Mexico. The streets were alive with the aroma of street food, and I couldn’t help but be inspired by the colorful tacos I had tasted. As I browsed through my pantry, I stumbled upon a package of tempeh, and a lightbulb moment struck me. What if I transformed those delicious taco memories into a plant-based delight? It was time to whip up some Spicy Tempeh Tacos with Avocado Lime Crema!
Ingredients
1 package (8 oz) of tempeh
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste
8 small corn tortillas
1 cup shredded red cabbage
½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 lime, cut into wedges
For the Avocado Lime Crema
1 ripe avocado
½ cup plain Greek yogurt (or vegan alternative)
1 lime, juiced
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Start by crumbling the tempeh into small pieces; this will create a wonderful texture for your tacos. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the tempeh. Sauté for a few minutes until it starts to brown. Sprinkle in the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure the tempeh is evenly coated with the spices. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
While the tempeh is cooking, prepare the Avocado Lime Crema. In a bowl, combine the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Use a fork or a blender to mix until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more lime juice for brightness.
Once the tempeh is ready, warm the corn tortillas in a separate pan or directly over the flame for a few seconds on each side until pliable. Assemble your tacos by placing a generous spoonful of the spiced tempeh on each tortilla. Top with a handful of shredded red cabbage and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Drizzle with the Avocado Lime Crema and finish with a squeeze of lime juice.
As I took my first bite, I was transported back to those lively streets filled with laughter and flavor. Each taco was a burst of spice, creamy goodness, and a hint of tang that danced on my palate. I knew I had created something special—these Spicy Tempeh Tacos with Avocado Lime Crema were not just a meal; they were a celebration of flavor and a tribute to the vibrant culinary traditions that inspire me every day.