Thai Peanut Tempeh Stir-Fry: A High Protein Vegan Meal

If you’re looking for a vibrant, flavorful, and protein-packed vegan meal idea, this Thai Peanut Tempeh Stir-Fry is the perfect dish.

Combining crispy tempeh, colorful vegetables, and a creamy peanut sauce, this stir-fry is both nutritious and irresistibly delicious.

It’s a celebration of fresh ingredients and bold flavors that will leave your taste buds singing.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving a crowd, this meal is bound to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a meal that’s as colorful as it is satisfying!

Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 block (8 oz) tempeh, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or neutral cooking oil)
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 cup sugar snap peas
• 1 medium carrot, julienned
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
• ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 small zucchini, sliced (optional for extra veggies)
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• ½ cup baby corn, halved (optional for extra texture)

For the Peanut Sauce:

• ¼ cup natural peanut butter (smooth or chunky)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or agave syrup)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• ¼ cup coconut milk (or water for a lighter sauce)
• Juice of ½ lime
• 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional, for spice)
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional for added nuttiness)

For Garnish:

• 2 tablespoons roasted peanuts, chopped
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges
• Thinly sliced green onions (optional)
• ½ cup fresh Thai basil leaves (optional for authentic flavor)

To Serve:

• Steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or quinoa
• Rice noodles (optional for a fun variation)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tempeh:

1. In a small pot, bring water to a boil and steam the tempeh cubes for 10 minutes. This step removes any bitterness and allows the tempeh to better absorb the sauce.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the steamed tempeh cubes and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of garlic powder and smoked paprika on the tempeh while cooking for extra flavor.

2. Make the Peanut Sauce:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, sesame oil, coconut milk, lime juice, sriracha (if using), and toasted sesame seeds. Adjust the consistency with more coconut milk or water if needed. Taste and tweak the balance of sweetness, saltiness, and acidity to your preference.
2. For a smoother sauce, blend the ingredients in a small blender or food processor.

3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:

1. In the same skillet or wok, add a bit more sesame oil if needed. Sauté the garlic, ginger, and onion until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
2. Add the broccoli, bell peppers, sugar snap peas, zucchini, carrot, and baby corn. Stir-fry over medium-high heat for 7-10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Sprinkle in the chili flakes for a touch of heat, if desired.
3. If you prefer softer vegetables, cover the skillet for a couple of minutes to let them steam slightly. Add a splash of water or vegetable broth if the pan becomes too dry.

4. Combine Everything:

1. Return the cooked tempeh to the skillet. Pour the peanut sauce over the stir-fry and toss to coat everything evenly. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and cling to the tempeh and vegetables.
2. Toss in the fresh Thai basil leaves during the last minute of cooking for a fragrant, authentic touch.

5. Serve and Garnish:

1. Serve the Thai Peanut Tempeh Stir-Fry over your choice of steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or quinoa. For a fun variation, try serving it over rice noodles.
2. Garnish with roasted peanuts, sesame seeds, fresh cilantro, green onions, and lime wedges for a burst of freshness and crunch.
3. For added indulgence, drizzle a little extra peanut sauce on top or sprinkle crushed chili flakes for spice lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• High Protein: Packed with protein-rich tempeh and peanuts, this dish is ideal for keeping you full and energized. It’s an excellent choice for athletes, busy professionals, or anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet.
• Colorful & Nutritious: The medley of fresh vegetables not only makes this meal visually stunning but also brims with vitamins and minerals. You’ll feel good about every bite!
• Customizable: Switch up the veggies, protein source, or spice level to suit your taste preferences. Try adding mushrooms, bok choy, or even tofu for variety.
• Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a wholesome meal without too much fuss. The entire dish can be ready in under 30 minutes.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe is a hit with vegans and non-vegans alike, making it perfect for dinner parties or potlucks.

Tips for the Perfect Stir-Fry

• Prep Ahead: Chop all your vegetables and prepare the sauce before starting. Stir-frying moves quickly, so having everything ready will make the process smoother.
• Use High Heat: A hot skillet or wok ensures that the vegetables cook quickly and retain their crunch. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can cause steaming instead of frying.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use the freshest produce you can find for the most vibrant flavors and best nutritional benefits.
• Double the Sauce: If you’re a sauce lover, consider doubling the peanut sauce recipe. It’s also fantastic as a dip or dressing for salads and wraps.
• Experiment with Garnishes: Add crushed peanuts, Thai basil, or crispy shallots for extra layers of flavor and texture.

This Thai Peanut Tempeh Stir-Fry is a feast for the eyes and the palate. With its creamy peanut sauce, colorful veggies, and golden tempeh, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again.

Enjoy a bowl of this wholesome stir-fry and let the flavors transport you to a world of Thai-inspired delight.

Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds. Why wait? Grab your ingredients and get cooking—a vibrant, protein-packed meal awaits!

Looking for more inspiration? Pair this stir-fry with a light vegan cucumber salad or a refreshing coconut lime sorbet for a complete Thai-inspired dining experience. Bon appétit!