How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, marinate the tempeh and prepare the sauce up to a day ahead.

Can I use tofu instead of tempeh?

Yes, tofu can be substituted for tempeh, but make sure to press it well before marinating.

Is there a substitute for lemongrass?

If lemongrass is unavailable, try adding a teaspoon of lemon zest and a bit of fresh ginger.

Can I bake the skewers instead of grilling?

Yes, bake them in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Vietnamese Lemongrass Tempeh Skewers with Pineapple Dipping Sauce

Name: Vietnamese Lemongrass Tempeh Skewers with Pineapple Dipping Sauce
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Main Course
Ingredients: 350g tempeh; 2 stalks lemongrass; 3 cloves garlic; 3 tbsp soy sauce; 2 tbsp maple syrup; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 1 tsp ground turmeric; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 cup pineapple chunks; 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp ginger; 1 tbsp maple syrup; 1 red chili; 2 tbsp roasted peanuts; 2 sprigs fresh cilantro; Lime wedges; 8 wooden or metal skewers

A Flavorful Vegan Delight

Marinated tempeh skewers bursting with Vietnamese flavors, accompanied by a sweet and tangy pineapple dipping sauce.

1 h 30 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Lemongrass Tempeh

350g tempeh

cut into 1-inch cubes

2 stalks lemongrass

finely chopped

3 cloves garlic

minced

3 tbsp soy sauce

2 tbsp maple syrup

1 tbsp sesame oil

1 tsp ground turmeric

1 tsp black pepper

For the Pineapple Dipping Sauce

1 cup pineapple chunks

fresh or canned

2 tbsp rice vinegar

1 tbsp soy sauce

1 tbsp ginger

grated

1 tbsp maple syrup

1 red chili

chopped (optional for heat)

For the Garnish

2 tbsp roasted peanuts

crushed

2 sprigs fresh cilantro

chopped

Lime wedges

For the Skewers

8 wooden or metal skewers

Preparation

Marinating the Tempeh

Combine Marinade Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine lemongrass, garlic, soy sauce, maple syrup, sesame oil, turmeric, and black pepper.

Add and Coat Tempeh

Add the tempeh cubes to the marinade and mix well to coat evenly.

Marinate

Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.

Marinate the tempeh overnight for a deeper infusion of flavors.

Preparing the Pineapple Dipping Sauce

Blend Ingredients

Blend pineapple chunks, rice vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, maple syrup, and red chili (if using) until smooth.

Chill Sauce

Transfer to a small bowl and refrigerate until needed for serving.

Notes

Soak Skewers

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.

Thicken Sauce (Optional)

If you prefer a thick dipping sauce, simmer it on low heat until it reduces to the desired consistency.

Cooking Process

Skewer the Tempeh

Thread the marinated tempeh onto the skewers evenly.

Grill

Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high. Grill the skewers until golden, 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Rest & Garnish

Allow skewers to rest for a few minutes, then sprinkle with crushed peanuts and chopped cilantro before serving.

Plating & Serving