This savory broccoli rabe is packed with extra garlicky goodness. Then, spicy tempeh vegan “sausage” is added to create a hearty and healthy plant-based side or just add pasta, a grain, or bread for a complete meal.
Benefits of Broccoli Rabe
Broccoli Rabe is one of those amazing ingredients that is almost like two vegetables that have merged to become one SUPER veggie with amazing texture. First, you have the leaves of the broccoli rabe which are reminiscent of spinach, and then you have the adorable tree-like florets that soak up all of the amazing garlicky flavor in this dish. 🧄
However, not only is broccoli rabe absolutely delicious but it is also incredibly nutritious. It’s fiber-rich and loaded with vitamins and minerals. Yep, this is one healthy green!
Savory Homemade Tempeh “Sausage”
Vegan “sausage” is about to happen in your life. That’s right– get ready!
If you haven’t experienced the wonder of tempeh, now is the time. Think Spicy Vegan Tempeh Sofritas, Turmeric Tempeh Skewers with Mango Relish, Tempeh & Mushroom Cabbage Rolls, and MORE!
But to be honest, initially we basically used tempeh only for stir frys or curries. Boy were we underutilizing this awesome plant-based protein! Fortunately, we soon discovered that depending on how the tempeh is prepared, it can honestly replicate meat including the traditional sausage that is often used alongside broccoli rabe in Italian fare.
The key is the seasoning that is used to mimic the sausage. Then, the crumbled tempeh quickly takes on the appearance and flavor of traditional ground sausage. A little weird to say, but trust us, it’s absolutely mouthwatering, especially alongside the garlicky broccoli rabe.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED:
- Broccoli Rabe – Healthy with a slightly more bitter taste than its common relative but definitely not to be underrated especially when garlic is added!
- Tempeh – A protein packed meat substitute that’s transformed into crumbled “sausage.”
- Vegan Sausage Seasoning Mix – The combination of fennel seeds and savory spices and liquids are the magic that makes this tempeh sausage so realistic.
- Garlic – Sliced garlic stays intact and serves as flavor bombs as you enjoy this amazing dish.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Hints of spice keep you coming back for more with each bite.
Watch: How to Make Garlicky Broccoli Rabe with Vegan Tempeh Sausage
FAQ & Garlicky Broccoli Rabe & Tempeh Sausage Tips:
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Is broccoli rabe bitter?
- Yes, it can be. However, this can be minimized drastically by how it is prepared. By adding garlic and olive oil, the natural bitterness is reduced.
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Is there a possible substitute for the tempeh?
- Absolutely. Tofu is a great replacement or beans can also be used including cannellini, chickpeas, or pinto beans.
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Serving Suggestions
- This recipe can either be served as a side or add some boiled pasta noodles for a complete meal. Additionally, it can also be served inside crispy bread for a delightful meat-free sandwich.
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Tip: Jazz it Up
- If you are a fan of heat, we highly recommend adding extra red pepper flakes or even including your favorite chili pepper when sautéing the garlic. Furthermore, add a little “cheesy” flavor with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast prior to serving.
A Nutritious Side or Easily Convertible into a Complete Meal
Enjoy all of the incredible health benefits of broccoli rabe and tempeh in this easy to make recipe. But best yet, it’s also insanely good. Enjoy! 🥦❤️
Finally, if you have made this broccoli rabe with vegan tempeh sausage, we would love to hear what you think! Please comment down below and be sure to rate the recipe. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Thanks so much!
Garlicky Broccoli Rabe with Vegan Tempeh Sausage
- Prep Time: 10 min.
- Cook Time: 10 min.
- Total Time: 20 min.
- Yield: 4 Servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sauté, Steam
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegan
Description
An easy side with amazing garlicky flavor, this broccoli rabe with vegan tempeh sausage is both nutritious and absolutely mouthwatering.
Ingredients
Tempeh Sausage:
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes
- 1 tsp Black Pepper
- 2 tsp Apple Cider Vinegar
- 2 Tbsp Liquid Aminos (or Soy Sauce)
- 1/4 Cup Vegetable Stock
- 1 Tbsp Fennel Seeds
- 1 Tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 8 oz. Package of Tempeh (Crumbled)
Broccoli Rabe:
- 2 Tbsp Olive Oil
- 3 Cloves of Garlic (Sliced)
- 1 Lb Broccoli Rabe (Roughly Chopped)
- 1 tsp Red Pepper Flake
- 1/4 Cup Water
Instructions
- In a small bowl add the paprika, garlic powder, red pepper flake, black pepper, apple cider vinegar, liquid aminos (or soy sauce) and vegetable stock. Whisk to combine.
- Crumble the tempeh and prepare the garlic and broccoli rabe as directed above.
- In a dry skillet over medium/high heat, toast the fennel seeds for approximately 1 minute. Stir occasionally.
- When the fennel is toasted and fragrant, add 1 Tbsp olive oil to the pan along with the crumbled tempeh. Stir occasionally until the tempeh starts to brown, approx. 3 minutes. Pour the sauce over the browned tempeh and stir until the tempeh is completely coated and the liquid has dissolved. Transfer to a bowl and set aside. Wipe out the skillet.
- Over medium/high heat, add 2 Tbsps olive oil to the skillet along with the sliced garlic. Sauté the garlic until it starts to brown, approx. 1 minute. Add the chopped broccoli rabe as well as 1 tsp red pepper flake and ¼ cup water and cover, allowing the broccoli rabe to steam. Approximately 2 minutes or until the broccoli rabe is wilted.
- Uncover the broccoli rabe and allow any excess liquid to evaporate, stir occasionally. Add the prepared tempeh “sausage” and stir to incorporate.
- Serve warm as a side, over pasta or in a sandwich. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Notes
- The equipment listed above contains affiliate links to products that we personally use, love, and recommend!
