Tempeh FAQ: 35 Most Common Questions Answered

Everything you’ve ever wanted to know about tempeh — answered in one place. This is the most comprehensive tempeh FAQ for Indian audiences.

What is Tempeh?

What is tempeh made of?

Tempeh is made from whole soybeans (or other legumes like chickpeas) fermented with a mould called Rhizopus oligosporus. The fermentation binds the beans into a firm, sliceable cake.

Where does tempeh come from?

Tempeh originates from Java, Indonesia, where it has been a dietary staple for over 300 years. It is now made and consumed worldwide.

Is tempeh the same as tofu?

No. Tofu is made from soy milk pressed into curds — similar to how paneer is made from dairy. Tempeh uses the whole soybean, fermented into a solid cake. Tempeh is firmer, higher in protein, higher in fibre, and has probiotic content that tofu does not.

What does tempeh taste like?

Fresh tempeh has a mild, nutty, earthy flavour with a slight mushroomy note. It absorbs marinades and spices exceptionally well. Pan-fried, it develops a crispy golden crust and deepened flavour.

What is the white stuff on tempeh?

The white coating is the mycelium — the beneficial fungal threads of Rhizopus oligosporus that bind the beans together. This is entirely normal and is what makes tempeh, tempeh. It is safe and beneficial to eat.

What are the black spots on tempeh?

Black or grey spots are spore heads formed by the Rhizopus mould — completely normal in mature or well-fermented tempeh. They indicate active, healthy fermentation and are safe to eat.

Nutrition & Health

How much protein is in tempeh?

Approximately 19–20g of protein per 100g, making it one of the highest plant-based protein sources available. It is a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids.

Is tempeh good for weight loss?

Yes — tempeh’s combination of high protein (19g/100g), high fibre (5–8g/100g), and moderate calories (~195 kcal/100g) makes it highly satiating. High-protein diets are consistently shown to reduce total caloric intake and support fat loss while preserving muscle mass. Read our detailed guide on tempeh for weight loss.

Is tempeh good for diabetes?

Yes. Tempeh has a low glycaemic index (~25–35), and its high protein and fibre content blunts post-meal blood sugar spikes. Soy isoflavones have also shown insulin-sensitising effects in clinical research. Read our detailed guide on tempeh for diabetes.

Can tempeh lower cholesterol?

Yes. Research shows that 25g/day of soy protein (approximately 130g of tempeh) reduces LDL cholesterol by 3–5% on average. Tempeh’s fibre content additionally reduces cholesterol absorption in the gut. Read our cholesterol guide.

Is tempeh good for gut health?

Yes — fresh unpasteurised tempeh contains live probiotic bacteria produced during fermentation. These support gut microbiome diversity, improve digestion, strengthen the gut lining, and enhance immunity.

Is tempeh anti-inflammatory?

Yes. Soy isoflavones (genistein, daidzein) in tempeh have demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects in research. The probiotic bacteria produced during fermentation also reduce gut-derived inflammation.

How many calories does tempeh have?

Approximately 195 calories per 100g — significantly less than paneer (265–320 kcal) and comparable to chicken breast (165 kcal) while providing similar protein content.

Is tempeh good for building muscle?

Yes. Tempeh provides a complete protein with all BCAAs required for muscle protein synthesis, including leucine. Read our muscle-building guide.

Is tempeh safe for people with soy allergies?

Soy tempeh is not suitable for those with soy allergies. Chickpea tempeh is completely soy-free and provides the same fermentation, protein, and probiotic benefits.

Does tempeh have B12?

Traditionally fermented tempeh contains trace B12 analogues from the fermentation process, but in amounts too small to meet daily requirements. Vegans should not rely on tempeh as their B12 source and should supplement separately.

Cooking & Storage

Does tempeh need to be cooked?

Yes — fresh tempeh should be cooked before eating. Steaming, pan-frying, or adding to a curry improves both digestibility and flavour. Do not eat raw fresh tempeh.

How do I cook tempeh?

Slice and pan-fry in oil for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Steam for 10–15 minutes. Add cubed to any curry and simmer for 10+ minutes. Marinate and grill for tikka-style dishes. See our full recipe guide.

How long does fresh tempeh last?

5–7 days refrigerated. Up to 3 months frozen. Refrigerate immediately on receiving delivery or after local pickup.

Can I freeze tempeh?

Yes. Slice or cube first, freeze in a sealed bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using. Texture is minimally affected by freezing.

How do I reduce tempeh’s bitterness?

Steam fresh tempeh for 10–15 minutes before cooking. This reduces any residual bitterness and opens the texture to absorb marinades better. Marinating in soy sauce, lemon, or spiced yoghurt also effectively masks any residual bitterness.

Can I use tempeh instead of paneer?

Yes, in most recipes. Tempeh has a firmer texture that holds up equally well. The flavour is different (nutty vs creamy) but works excellently in curries, stir-fries, tikka, and bhurji.

Can I use tempeh instead of chicken or meat?

Yes. Tempeh’s protein density is comparable to meat, and its firm texture holds up in cooking. Marinated, grilled tempeh is particularly close to grilled chicken in experience.

Buying Tempeh in India

Where can I buy fresh tempeh in India?

Tempewala makes and delivers fresh tempeh across India — Bangalore (including local pickup), Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Pune. Order at tempewala.com/shop.

Is Tempewala tempeh available for local pickup in Bangalore?

Yes — Tempewala offers local pickup from our Bangalore facility. Order online, select pickup at checkout, and collect same day or next day. See our local pickup guide.

Is tempeh available in Indian supermarkets?

Some health food stores in metro cities stock shelf-stable or frozen tempeh. However, Tempewala’s fresh, unpasteurised tempeh is superior in quality and probiotic content and is only available online at tempewala.com.

What types of tempeh does Tempewala offer?

Fresh Soybean Tempeh, Fresh Chickpea Tempeh, Kripik Chips (6 flavours), Dehydrated Tempeh Bites (4 varieties), Sambal Orek Tempeh, Sambal Kering Tempeh, and Sambal Icebox pack.

How much does Tempewala tempeh cost?

Fresh tempeh (soy and chickpea) is ₹599 per pack. Kripik chips and dehydrated bites are ₹399 per bag. Sambal products are ₹399 each.

Dietary & Ethical Questions

Is tempeh vegan?

Yes, 100%. Tempeh contains only soybeans (or chickpeas) and Rhizopus mould culture — no animal products of any kind. Read our full vegan guide.

Is tempeh gluten-free?

Plain soy and chickpea tempeh are naturally gluten-free. Some flavoured or marinated products may contain gluten-bearing ingredients — check the label.

Is tempeh safe for children?

Yes — tempeh is safe for children from around 8–10 months as part of a varied diet (subject to no soy allergy). Read our children’s guide.

Is tempeh good for pregnant women?

Tempeh provides protein, iron, calcium, and folate — all critical during pregnancy. Soy isoflavone consumption at normal food amounts is generally considered safe during pregnancy. Consult your gynaecologist for personalised guidance.

Still have questions? Contact Tempewala directly →