Tempeh Stir Fry | Broccoli & Red Peppers

You’ll love this stir-fry made with tempeh, broccoli, and bell peppers because it’s packed with vibrant flavors, high in plant-based protein, and comes together in just minutes for a healthy, satisfying meal. Plus, the mix of crispy veggies and savory tempeh creates a perfect balance of taste and texture!

We have other protein-packed tempeh recipes on this website like our tempeh breakfast sandwich, these delicious tempeh BBQ ribs, and this sweet and sour tempeh stir-fry.

Reasons you will love this recipe

• Quick and Easy Weeknight Meal: This tempeh with broccoli and bell peppers recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need a fast, healthy meal.
• Packed with Plant-Based Protein: Tempeh is a nutrient-dense source of protein, ideal for vegetarians and vegans looking for a satisfying, protein-rich dish that pairs well with fresh vegetables.
• Flavorful and Versatile: The combination of savory tempeh, crunchy broccoli, and sweet bell peppers is full of flavor. Customize the recipe with your favorite seasonings or sauces for a personalized twist.
• Healthy and Low-Calorie: This recipe is loaded with fiber, vitamins, and minerals from the veggies, while remaining low in calories—perfect for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

What is tempeh?

Tempeh is a traditional Indonesian food made from fermented soybeans, known for its dense texture and earthy, nutty flavor. Unlike tofu, which is made from soy milk, tempeh uses whole soybeans, which are fermented and pressed into a firm block. This fermentation process not only gives tempeh its unique flavor but also increases its nutritional profile, making it rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and probiotics.

Tempeh is highly versatile, often used in stir-fries, sandwiches, salads, or marinated and grilled as a plant-based alternative to meat. Its hearty texture holds up well to a variety of cooking methods, making it a favorite in both vegan and vegetarian cooking. We have a great article on how to cook tempeh and recipes to use it in that should be helpful.

Which vegetables to use

Add any vegetable you like. I used broccoli, onion, and red bell peppers. Other great options might be Asian cabbages like Napa or Bok Choy, carrots, mushrooms, or even baby corn.

We usually serve stir-fries over rice, pasta, quinoa, or couscous.

How to make tempeh broccoli stir-fry

The recipe card at the bottom of the page has the full list of ingredients with measurements and instructions.

Tempeh is found in many grocery stores in the produce cold section. It’s a traditional soy product from Indonesia. It is made by a natural culturing and controlled fermentation process that binds soybeans into a cake form and has a nutty, mushroom, meaty flavor.

STEP #1: Steam the tempeh for 10 minutes. Steaming helps tempeh to accept more flavors and make it more tender.

STEP #2: Cut the tempeh into 1/2″ cubes. Chop broccoli, onion, red pepper, garlic, and ginger.

STEP #3: Heat the veggie broth or water in a wok or large skillet and add the tempeh, veggies, soy sauce or tamari, and maple syrup. Cook and stir over medium-high heat until the tempeh is lightly browned and the vegetables are tender-crisp.

I am often asked about which nonstick pan I use, and my favorite is the 12″ Stone Earth Ozeri Fry Pan. There are actually two of them in my kitchen, and I use them daily.

STEP #4: Serve over hot couscous, rice, or even noodles.

Tempeh is high in protein

Tempeh is an excellent source of plant-based protein, making it a popular choice for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone looking to incorporate more protein into their diet. Made from fermented soybeans, tempeh boasts around 15–20 grams of protein per 100 grams, which rivals many animal-based proteins.

Unlike some other plant proteins, tempeh contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein. Its firm texture and nutty flavor make it versatile in various dishes, from stir-fries to sandwiches like our tempeh, lettuce, and tomato (TLT) sandwich and this smoked tempeh breakfast sandwich, providing a nutrient-dense option that supports muscle repair, growth, and overall health.

Check out this short video of me demonstrating how easy it is to make a broccoli and red pepper stir fry without any oil.

The recipe is from the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine.