There’s something magical about tempeh; its nutty flavor and firm texture make it a versatile canvas for a myriad of dishes. This recipe was born on a sun-drenched afternoon when I found myself rummaging through the pantry, seeking a burst of flavor. Tempeh caught my eye, and I thought, why not elevate it with a sweet and spicy glaze? The addition of a vibrant avocado mango salsa adds a refreshing twist, making this dish a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
Ingredients
1 block (8 oz) tempeh
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons maple syrup
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 ripe avocado, diced
1 ripe mango, diced
1/4 red onion, finely chopped
Juice of 1 lime
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Begin by slicing the tempeh into thin strips, about 1/2 inch thick. The thinner the slices, the more flavor they will absorb from the glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, soy sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne, salt, and pepper until combined. Add the tempeh slices to the bowl, ensuring each piece is well-coated in the marinade. Allow the tempeh to marinate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors penetrate.
While the tempeh is soaking up that deliciousness, prepare the avocado mango salsa. In a mixing bowl, gently combine the diced avocado, mango, red onion, and lime juice. Be careful not to mash the avocado; you want to keep those beautiful chunks intact. Season with salt and pepper, then sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top for a pop of color and flavor.
Once the tempeh has marinated, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the tempeh slices to the pan, allowing them to sizzle and develop a golden-brown crust. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are crispy and caramelized. The aroma of the spices will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a bite.
To serve, arrange the spiced tempeh on a plate and generously top it with the vibrant avocado mango salsa. A sprinkle of extra cilantro is always welcome for garnish! This dish not only looks stunning but delivers a delightful explosion of flavors with each bite, balancing the earthy notes of tempeh with the sweetness of mango and creaminess of avocado.
Enjoy this dish as a main course, or serve it as an appetizer at your next gathering. It’s a beautiful reminder that plant-based ingredients can shine brightly, bringing joy and flavor to the table.