3 Best Places to Buy Tempeh (Updated 2024)

Name: 3 Best Tempeh Recipes
Ingredients: Sweet and Spicy Tempeh with Garlic Curry Noodles; Baked Lemon Pepper Tempeh; Sticky Ginger Tempeh with Coconut Rice

Updated Mar 2, 2023Recipe Marker

As the health craze continues to soar, more and more individuals are seeking alternatives to meat and seafood. One of the more popular products on the market today that appeals to both vegetarians and meat lovers alike is tempeh. Many have even started seeking where to buy tempeh in their neighborhood or have scoured restaurants for this particular ingredient.

Although most have heard of tofu as a meat alternative, tempeh remains a highly valuable ingredient and a staple for many vegetarians. This fermented soy product ranks as a superfood, not only because of its nutritional value but also for its versatility.

If you are a health and fitness enthusiast on the lookout for the next big thing, you probably want to know where to buy tempeh. To help guide you on your quest, make sure to read this article until the end. Check this out.

What Is Tempeh?

Considered a plant-based meat alternative, tempeh is a soy-based protein derived from what else but fermented soybeans. Often found in a cake- or brick-like appearance or packaging, tempeh is made by fermenting soybeans in order to break down their phytic acid. Once broken down and fully fermented, the starches found within tempeh become more digestible.

Though tempeh is traditionally made with soybeans, other variations do exist – from different types of beans to grains, technology has afforded us an array of tempeh designed to cater to our needs and tastes.

Those allergic to soy now have alternatives on the market, with those made from grains or other seeds, and some even flavored with seasoning, seaweed, vegetables, and much more. Black beans, chickpeas, and lentils are just some of the popular substitutes in making this but bear in mind that those made with grains may not be gluten-free.

A Brief History of Tempeh

Despite being relatively less well-known than tofu, you might be surprised to know that this dish is not exactly new in the food scene. As a matter of fact, it has existed since the 1970s, as a result of the counterculture movement. Today, with all the buzz surrounding fermented foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickles, tempeh may just have found its niche within the community.

As more individuals continue to explore the health and wellness industry, you can expect tempeh to shine bright like the star it truly is.

What Does Tempeh Taste Like?

Like tofu, tempeh may actually be an acquired taste for most. At the very least, you should not eat it raw, unlike other fermented foods on the market. However, from the get-go, you can see that it has a chunky and gritty texture.

When cooked, normally fried, steamed, or baked, tempeh’s natural umami flavor takes center stage as a result of its fermentation process. This umami flavor resembles that of a mushroom or may become meat-like. Those who want to bring out the flavor often season tempeh with salt or soy sauce, but on its own, it can impart a savory and meaty flavor. Meanwhile, others describe tempeh to have an earthy and nutty taste.

Ways of Cooking and Eating Tempeh

This product is highly versatile and can stand in for just about any type of meat, particularly with its absorbent nature and meaty texture. Because of this, it can be used in a wide range of recipes, from Asian dishes to Mexican-themed creations.

It can be sliced and fried, grilled, baked, and even used as a replacement for ground meat; so think outside the box and find what works best for you.

Nutritional Benefits of Tempeh

High in protein, this superfood often acts as a substitute for those weaning themselves off meat or simply those who follow vegan or vegetarian diets. Because this product is high in protein, it can promote satiety faster and stave off hunger pangs compared to eating carbohydrates alone.

This superfood is also a miracle worker as it can lower cholesterol. Not to mention, it provides a wealth of vitamins and nutrients, including B2, B3, and B6, as well as zinc, magnesium, manganese, and phosphorus. It is also an excellent source of the RDA for calcium and iron.

Where to Buy Tempeh

If you’re wondering where to buy tempeh, you’re in luck. Today, most groceries carry this item. Normally, you will find it in the same aisle or section as tofu. However, you may also find it in the produce or dairy section depending on your place of purchase.

Among the most popular brands of tempeh include Lightlife or Trader Joe’s own version called Organic 3-Grain Tempeh.

Supermarkets and Grocery Stores

Some grocery stores that carry this product today include Walmart, Target, and many more. Walmart also carries tofurky-flavored tempeh made by Turtle Island. Similar to bacon, it has that sweet, slightly smoky taste that everyone loves. Both of these stores also carry a tempeh starter pack if you want to try your hand at making it.

Trader Joe’s has created its own tempeh considered one of the best buys on the market today. Not to mention, it offers those allergic to soybeans a chance to enjoy the fermented dish.

Since it’s made with other grains and seeds, the Trader Joe’s version is a nutrient-packed product that will surely be enjoyed by anyone into clean eating.

Asian groceries are also worth checking out. With its Asian leanings and origins, you can surely find tempeh in just about any Asian mart near you. If you plan on buying some, don’t forget to check out other sauces and marinades that pair well with tempeh.

Health Stores

Dedicated health stores like Whole Foods carry tempeh. In fact, Whole Foods has this superfood in both its online and physical stores in the United Kingdom and the United States.

Sometimes, there are also local farmer’s markets and smaller establishments that carry it in their line, so make sure to check out health stores near you.

Online

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In a digital age, one thing’s for sure – everything can be found online, even tempeh. If you have tried scouring the grocery aisles to no avail, don’t despair. You can easily place an order online – such as from the ever-reliable Amazon – and have it delivered straight to your doorstep. Walmart and other supermarts also have this in-store, so check out their websites as well.

Aside from hassle-free purchases, the upside to buying online is that you also get to choose how many you wish to buy and what kinds you are interested in, rather than being limited to what the supermarket stocks.

However, since you’re not sure about its freshness, feel free to pore over customer reviews to fully know what you’re getting into.

The Bottom Line

Raring to try out tempeh? With its plump and meaty flavor, you might just be hankering to get your hands on this superfood. Through this article, you’re guaranteed to find this ingredient without breaking a sweat. Hope you learned some great places to buy tempeh.