Tempeh Taco “Meat”

Tempeh taco “meat” is an uncomplicated and delicious way to start experimenting with this plant-based protein.

Whenever I’m looking to replace the texture of ground beef in a vegan recipe, tempeh is my go-to. When you crumble it up, it takes on a very similar texture, making it perfect for things like meatless meatballs, bolognese sauce, and tempeh taco “meat”. 

In the past half-decade of teaching and writing about plant-based food, though, I’ve found that few ingredients cause as much trepidation as tempeh. (Pronounced tem-PAY, btw.) Most people are curious about it, but often too intimidated to cook with it at home. These vegan tempeh tacos are for those types of cooks – they’re truly simple to make and ready in about 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Tempeh Taco “Meat”

• It’s easy to make. All you need is one pan = zero fancy equipment.
• Simple ingredients. You likely already have everything you need to make it.
• Make ahead-able. Meal prep in advance – assemble easy tempeh tacos throughout the week.

Key Ingredients + Substitutions

• Tempeh: This fermented soybean ingredient is usually located in the supermarket next to things like tofu, kimchi, hummus, etc. Lightlife is the most common brand. I also like Soyboy (made locally in NY) and Trader Joe’s has their own brand, too. 
• Onion + Fresh Garlic: Use red or yellow onion.
• Mexican Spices: A combo of cumin and chili powder for smokiness and heat. If chili powder is too hot for you, sub with smoked paprika.
• Tomato Sauce: To bring everything together and make the filling saucy.

How to Make Tempeh Tacos

Find complete instructions with ingredient amounts in the recipe card below.

Step 1: Simmer the Tempeh

Crumble the tempeh with your fingers into small bits (you may also grate it on a box grater). Place in a large skillet and add some water. Bring to a simmer and cook until all the water’s evaporated. This step softens the tempeh and tones down its bitterness.

Step 2: Brown the Tempeh

Add oil, diced onion, salt, and pepper, and cook until the tempeh is nicely browned, about 10 minutes. Then add the spices and cook for 30 seconds more.

Step 3: Finish the Tempeh “Meat”

Lastly, add the tomato sauce and some more water, bring to a simmer, and cook for 10 minutes more. Wait until the end to finish seasoning with salt, in case your tomato sauce is on the saltier side.

Step 4: Serve the Tempeh Tacos

Divide the filling among tortillas and top with chopped romaine, pico de gallo (or salsa), and guacamole. (You can also use this filling for burritos, tostadas, or burrito bowls.)

If you’d like to serve these with a side dish, try my purple cabbage slaw or charred corn salad.

More Ways with Tempeh…

• Tempeh Curry
• Shepherd’s Pie with Tempeh
• Soy-Glazed Crumbled Tempeh
• Air Fryer Tempeh

Let me know if you try this recipe! Give it a rating below and leave a comment, and don’t forget to tag your creation with @thenewbaguette on Instagram.