Italian Marinade

This is my favorite marinade for tempeh, but it’s also great with tofu or brushed onto vegetables before you throw them on the grill.

1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup tamari
1 minced garlic clove
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (to taste)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed between fingers
1 teaspoon minced onions
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
freshly ground black pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients and stir or whisk to combine.

Variations

• Experiment with some different spices.
• This marinade can be a little strong for some people. If so, you can add 1/4 cup of water or vegetable broth to tone it down a bit.
• Omit the tamari for a low-sodium version. Add a little extra balsamic vinegar or water if you need more liquid.
• Can be easily made gluten-free.

More information for Italian Marinade recipe:

• Prep time: 5 min
• Total time: 5 min

Italian Marinated Tempeh

This is great as a side dish, but my favorite way to use it is as part of the Tempeh Salad. Makes 4 servings.

1 8 ounce package tempeh
1 batch Italian Marinade recipe (see above)

Cut tempeh into 1 to 1/2 inch wide cubes. Combine marinade and tempeh in a sealed bowl. Cover and shake well until all pieces are coated.

Place in the refrigerator for one hour or overnight shaking the container every now and again (when you think of it) to coat all pieces. The tempeh will begin to absorb all the marinade.

When ready to cook, heat a non-stick skillet over medium low heat. Add tempeh and any liquid and cook for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring to turn the pieces until all of the liquid has evaporated or been absorbed. Serve immediately or keep in a covered container in fridge.

Variations

• Slice the tempeh into larger strips and grill them instead of cooking them on the stove.
• Omit the tamari in the marinade for a low-sodium version. Add a little extra balsamic vinegar or water if you need more liquid.
• Can be easily made gluten-free.

More information for Italian Marinated Tempeh recipe:

• Prep time: 5 min
• Cook time: 10 min
• Total time: 15 min