Tempeh is produced by a natural culture of soybeans and sometimes other legumes, seeds, or grains. The process is very similar to that by which cheese or yogurt are made. Tempeh has a full-bodied, meaty texture and can be used as a main course and substitute for animal foods in stews, soups, spreads, sushi or sandwiches. It is readily available in natural foods stores. Tempeh is high in protein, omega 3 oils, and B vitamins. Buy organic to avoid GMO’s.
Tempeh needs to cook 20-25 minutes to be digestible. Many recipes (even the package) will tell you to pan fry on each side a few minutes. It will be very hard on your digestive system and will not taste good either. And please never eat it raw.
Hijiki is a sea vegetable that benefits the thyroid; moistens dryness; builds bones and teeth; supports hormone functions; helps normalize blood sugar; softens hardened masses in the body; resolves heat phlegm; an excellent source of calcium, iron, iodine, niacin and other nutrients.
Ingredients
- One 8 ounce package Tempeh
- 1/2 cup dried Hijiki
- 1 cup carrots, julienne cut
- Toasted Sesame Oil
- Tamari or GF Soy Sauce
- Water to Cover
Directions
- Place the hijiki in a bowl of room temperature water and let sit 20-25 minutes
- Cut the tempeh in one inch pieces
- Heat sesame oil in skillet. Add the tempeh and saute on each side until golden brown and drain of paper towels
- Drain the hijiki and add to the skillet. You have have to add more oil to the pan before adding hijiki. You can cut the hijiki in smaller pieces if you like
- Saute for 4-5 minutes stirring frequently
- Add the tamari
- Add the carrots, cover with water, and simmer 25 minutes covered
- If too much liquid remains, simmer a few more minutes uncovered
- Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro
- You can add some fresh grated ginger along with the tamari if you like
Notes
I like Lightlife brand of tempeh; the one that says original is gluten-free
You can substitute Arame seaweed for Hijiki in this recipe
I use the hijiki soaking water to water my plants
I never use, nor do I recommend, hijiki and other sea vegetables from Hong Kong or China. Mitoku brand is superior and is my personal favorite. Order from Natural Import Co. online. Eden, Ohsawa, and Maine Coast are also reputable brands.
