Glossary
What is tempeh?
Tempeh is a firm, nutty protein made from whole soybeans fermented into a cake. Because the beans stay whole, it holds more fibre and protein than tofu and has a denser texture. It originated in Indonesia and is pronounced tem-pay.
Where it comes from
Tempeh comes from Java, Indonesia, where it has been made for several centuries and remains an everyday staple. It reached Western vegetarian cooking in the twentieth century.
Is it the same as tofu?
No. Tofu is made from coagulated soy milk, so the beans are broken down and the result is soft and neutral in flavour. Tempeh is made from whole fermented beans, so it is firm, textured and more strongly flavoured. They are different foods made from the same crop.