slug: tempeh
name: Tempeh
description: Fermented soybean cake. Dense, nutty, high in protein. Excellent at absorbing marinades.
dietary_labels: [vegan, high-protein, fermented]
base_ingredients:
  - tempeh block (store-bought or homemade from soybeans + starter)
base_method: steam then marinate
base_time_minutes: 20
yield_formats:
  raw:
    elements: [Structure, Depth, Richness]
    shelf_days: 7
    storage: refrigerated in original packaging or wrapped
    methods: [steam, crumble, slice]
    texture: dense, firm
  marinated:
    elements: [Structure, Depth, Seasoning, Aroma]
    shelf_days: 5
    storage: submerged in marinade, refrigerated
    methods: [bake, pan-fry, grill]
    texture: chewy, flavor-dense
  crumbled:
    elements: [Structure, Depth, Texture]
    shelf_days: 3
    storage: refrigerated, use quickly
    methods: [saute as ground meat substitute, add to tacos or pasta]
    texture: crumbly, browned bits
compatible_styles: [latin, east_asian, mediterranean]