In the ever - expanding world of vegan cuisine, finding a dish that is both delicious and packed with nutrition can be a rewarding journey. One such culinary gem is the tempeh marinated in a sweet sesame - soy sauce, offering an Asian - inspired vegan meal that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Tempeh, a fermented soybean cake, is a staple in many vegan diets. It is a great source of protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. Unlike tofu, tempeh has a firmer texture and a nutty flavor, which makes it an excellent candidate for marinating and absorbing the flavors of the sauce.

Let's start by gathering the ingredients for the sweet sesame - soy marinate. You will need soy sauce, which forms the base of the marinade and provides that classic umami flavor. A touch of honey or maple syrup adds the much - needed sweetness, balancing out the saltiness of the soy sauce. To enhance the Asian flavor profile, a splash of rice vinegar can be added. It gives a slight tang and helps to cut through the richness of the other ingredients.

For the sesame element, both sesame oil and sesame seeds are essential. Sesame oil has a distinct, rich flavor that is characteristic of Asian cooking. A few drops can go a long way in infusing the tempeh with that authentic taste. And the sesame seeds, whether white or black, not only add a crunchy texture but also a nutty aroma when toasted.

Now, onto preparing the tempeh. First, select a good - quality tempeh. You can find it in most health food stores or the vegan section of your local supermarket. Cut the tempeh into cubes or slices, depending on your preference. A common size for cubes is about 1 - inch, which allows for even marinating and cooking.

To make the marinade, combine the soy sauce, honey or maple syrup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Whisk the ingredients together until well - combined. You can adjust the ratio of sweet to savory according to your taste. If you like it sweeter, add a bit more honey; if you prefer a saltier flavor, increase the amount of soy sauce.

Place the cut tempeh in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Make sure the tempeh is completely submerged. You can use a fork to gently poke the tempeh, which will help the marinade penetrate deeper. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight. The longer the tempeh marinates, the more flavorful it will become.

When it's time to cook the marinated tempeh, there are several methods you can choose from. One popular way is to pan - fry it. Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium - high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated tempeh pieces. Cook them for a few minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. The heat will also help to caramelize the marinade, creating a delicious crust.

Another option is to bake the tempeh in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the marinated tempeh on it. Drizzle a little more sesame oil over the tempeh and sprinkle some additional sesame seeds. Bake for about 20 - 25 minutes, flipping the tempeh halfway through the cooking time. This method results in a more evenly cooked and slightly drier tempeh.

You can serve the cooked tempeh in various ways. It makes a great addition to stir - fries, where it can be combined with colorful vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snow peas. You can also use it as a topping for salads, adding a protein - rich and flavorful element. For a more substantial meal, serve the tempeh with steamed rice or noodles, along with a side of steamed greens.

In conclusion, the sweet sesame - soy marinated tempeh is a versatile and delicious vegan meal. It showcases the beauty of plant - based cooking, using simple ingredients to create a complex and satisfying dish. Whether you are a seasoned vegan or just looking to incorporate more plant - based meals into your diet, this recipe is definitely worth trying.