Coconut-Crusted Tempeh

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Tempeh is one of those foods I never thought I’d be eating just two years ago. Just the thought of fermented soy isn’t exactly appetizing. Thoughts aside, it’s nutritionally great and easy to prepare and eat. You don’t even have to cook it, but this recipe adds some sweet and saltiness to it. The coconut coating reminds me of coconut shrimp. And it couldn’t be easier to make.

Coconut-Crusted Tempeh

Ingredients(For 2 servings):

  • 1 block of tempeh
  • 1/4 cup shredded, unsweetened coconut
  • 2 tablespoons agave nectar
  • a pinch of salt

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Preheat an oven to 350 degrees. Cube a block of tempeh into bite-sized pieces and combine in a bowl with the coconut, salt, and agave nectar.

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Toss the tempeh to coat it in coconut. Next, line a baking pan and lay out the tempeh in a single layer.

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Bake for 30 minutes or until the coconut begins to toast.

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The flavor is really nutty and a little sweet. The texture doesn’t really change from raw tempeh which is good because it has a “meaty” bite to it. It goes good on its own or with a salad.

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And don’t forget today’s the last day to enter the giveaway!

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20 Responses to Coconut-Crusted Tempeh
  1. Liz @ Tip Top Shape
    February 4, 2011 | 10:27 am

    The vegan-wanabee in me is pretty excited about this recipe. I know what I’m making this weekend!!!

  2. Beth @ Beth's Journey to Thin
    February 4, 2011 | 11:11 am

    This looks awesome!! I have two blocks of tempeh in my fridge right now that I’m debating what to do with… was thinking tempeh tacos but maybe I’ll make this instead!

  3. Errign
    February 4, 2011 | 2:18 pm

    I am a little scared of tempeh – I’ve never had it or bought it, but this looks yummy!

  4. Katelyn @ Chef Katelyn
    February 4, 2011 | 2:26 pm

    I have approx. 3 things of tempeh in my fridgy fridge that I should probably use! Thank you for the idea!

  5. Christin@purplebirdblog
    February 4, 2011 | 2:45 pm

    I accidentally bought 5-grain tempeh that has bulgur wheat in it, doh! I love the texture of tempeh and am always looking for fun new ways to cook it!

  6. Jenn L @ Peas and Crayons
    February 4, 2011 | 3:22 pm

    YES!!!! This is PERFECT! I’ve been craving coconut shrimp — this just makes me even more excited! must make!

  7. Averie (LoveVeggiesAndYoga)
    February 4, 2011 | 4:27 pm

    you know i rarely buy tempeh, more just regular soy, but i really should get my ferment on more 🙂

    love the coconut addition!

  8. Ashley @ Will Run for Food
    February 4, 2011 | 5:17 pm

    Sounds yummy! I bought some once and just ended up throwing it away…hmmm, will have to try again!

  9. Ela
    February 4, 2011 | 6:21 pm

    Sounds delicious. I think I’ve only had tempeh once, but fermented is the only way I’ll eat soy, and coconut is an awesome pairing. May have to try next time we’re up in the big town and can get tempeh…

    Interesting plating with more veggies–that lentil-spinach takes me right back to my Mediterranean childhood…

  10. Hannah
    February 4, 2011 | 7:11 pm

    Two months ago, I wouldn’t have had any of these ingredients in my kitchen. I used to think coconut was bleurgh, couldn’t justify the price of agave, and always forgot how much I love tempeh. But I have alllll the ingredients right now! Hurrah!

    If only I weren’t going out for dinner for my dad’s 60th. Tomorrow then 🙂

  11. Maryea {Happy Healthy Mama}
    February 4, 2011 | 7:51 pm

    I have always been intimidated by tempeh. Your recipe might just change my mind. Does tempeh have a taste? People say plain tofu is tasteless, but I disagree. I think without any sauce or marinade, tofu is disgusting! But with the right sauce I like it. I’m wondering if tempeh is the same way.

    • Wannabe Chef
      February 4, 2011 | 7:52 pm

      Yes, tempeh has a slight fermented flavor to it, kind of like kombucha but not as strong. It’s pretty easy to mask, too.

  12. Baking 'n' Books
    February 4, 2011 | 11:30 pm

    Love tempeh! I usually just saute it or grill it – whatever is quickest. I just put it on a veggie pizza too – yummo! 🙂

  13. Kate (What Kate is Cooking)
    February 4, 2011 | 11:50 pm

    I haven’t had tempeh in a while! I’ve cooked it myself, and it was good, but not great. Every time I’ve had it in a restaurant, it’s been amazing!

  14. Liz
    February 5, 2011 | 2:21 pm

    Wow, that looks good. I’m not a vegetarian… I’m definitely a carnivore… but I still love tempeh. I always eat it the same way, though… in stir-fry. I will definitely try this.

  15. Amy
    February 5, 2011 | 10:03 pm

    This tempeh sounds delicious! I am going to have to try this coconut crusted variation!

  16. Zuzia
    February 6, 2011 | 9:53 am

    I want to try temph but I’m just too afraid!

  17. Tiffany @ Conor & Bella
    February 6, 2011 | 3:11 pm

    Ooo, this sounds good! I’ve only had tempeh once before and I’ve been wanting to try it again.

  18. DeeDee
    January 24, 2013 | 11:39 am

    Wow, you can find tempeh in the States,
    I am glad, I was afraid of not eating it when I am there.
    It is a traditional food from Indonesia, It is healthy and has a long history. I eat tempeh almost everyday. You can simply fry it, but you should let it soak for a while in a mixture of salt, minced garlic and water. Where do you get some tempeh by the way? Does Walmart have it? Or do you have to find it in An Asian market which sells Indonesian products?thanks a lot.

    • Wannabe Chef
      January 24, 2013 | 3:19 pm

      I’m not sure if Walmart would have it but most grocery store chains do.