Spicy Vegan Tempeh Sofritas 

Spicy Vegan Tempeh Sofritas 

 

A spicy meat-free protein that can be used in tacos, burritos, nachos, and more! This homemade spicy vegan tempeh sofritas recipe is bursting with flavor. 

 

A Healthy Chipotle Copy-Cat Recipe

There was a time when I regularly picked up a burrito bowl from Chipotle.  Initially, it was topped with only veggies but soon, once tofu sofritas were introduced, that became a favorite as well. 

Fast forward a few years, and now fast food feels like a distant memory but we wanted to try recreating this old favorite with nutritious and gut-healthy tempeh. Although we like to make our own homemade tempeh, it can also be purchased at most grocery stores today.  

 

Tempeh Simmered in a Spicy Sauce

But truthfully, the real star of this recipe is the saucy chipotle mixture covering the crumbled tempeh.  It’s made with tomatoes, roasted poblano pepper, cilantro, jalapeño, onion, garlic, and chipotle peppers in adobo sauce that has been blended and then added to the savory browned tempeh.  In other words, a flavor explosion! 

 

WHAT YOU WILL NEED:

  • Tempeh This firm soy-based Indonesion protein is crumbled and browned to imitate meat and then simmered in a spicy chipotle sauce
  • Poblano Pepper  –  The poblano is roasted for added smoky flavor which adds depths to the sauce
  • Onion  – Pungent red onion provides brightness with a bite
  • Garlic  –  The garlic in the sauce adds an earthy yet pungent aspect 
  • Tomato  –   The tomato brings acidity that compliments the spice
  • Cilantro  –  This fresh herb provides necessary brightness and a pleasant aroma
  • Jalapeño  –  Abundant flavor with mild heat
  • Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce  –  A smoky and tangy addition to the fresh sauce
  • Spices  –  Cumin, Black Pepper, & Salt add richness
  • Lime  –  Zesty citrus notes brighten this spicy plant-based protein

 

FAQ & Tempeh Sofritas Tips:

  • What are the benefits of tempeh

    • Traditionally made with fermented soybeans, tempeh is high in protein, probiotics, vitamins and minerals but is low in sodium and carbohydrates. Additionally, it can be made with other protein sources, for example mung bean tempeh or adzuki bean tempeh. But no matter what protein is used, this is one healthy meat alternative.
  • What recipes can tempeh sofritas be used for? 

    • Burritos, nachos, and tacos, oh-my! Yup, this vegan protein can be used for almost any mexican dish. We actually like to mix it up and use it for burrito bowls one night and then use it for another recipe or two later in the week.  
  • Substitution Ideas. 

    • If you don’t have tempeh, it can also be substituted for tofu, seitan, or even canned chickpeas. In short, this sauce will basically work with just about any plant-based protein. 
  • How to Store. 

    • This tempeh sofritas can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days or it can be frozen for up to 3 months.  Most importantly, it reheats incredibly well and tastes just as good on day 5 as it did on day 1! 

  

A Versatile Protein 

There is not one taco, burrito, burrito bowl, or even plain rice that won’t benefit from this spicy and saucy mixture. This healthy homemade fast food alternative will delight your taste buds and still allow you to stick to your personal health goals. No delivery required! 🤩

Additionally, if you have made this sofritas recipe, we would love to hear what you think! Please comment down below  and be sure to rate the recipe. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Thanks so much!

Finally, you can also take a photo and tag us on instagram.  We would love to get your feedback! Happy cooking! 

 

Ingredients for spicy vegan tempeh sofritas  tempeh being crumbled in a white bowl

A poblano pepper being charred on an open flame  A poblano pepper peeled and deseeded on a white plate

Chopped ingredients for homemade sofrito on a cutting board  Sofrito ingredients in a food processor prior to pureeing

Puréed homemade sofrito in a food processor  Crumbled tempeh browning in a cast iron skillet

Homemade sofrito being added to crumbled and browned tempeh in a cast iron skillet  Prepared spicy vegan tempeh sofritas steaming in a cast iron skillet

Spicy vegan tempeh sofritas in a cast iron skillet with a wooden spoon  Spicy vegan tempeh sofritas in small glass bowl with a spoon with fresh ingredients in the background 

 

Print
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Spicy vegan tempeh sofritas in small glass bowl with a spoon with fresh ingredients in the background

Spicy Vegan Tempeh Sofritas 

  • Author: Meatless Makeovers
  • Prep Time: 20 min
  • Cook Time: 15 min.
  • Total Time: 35 min.
  • Yield: 8 Servings 1x
  • Category: Plant-based Protein
  • Method: Food Processor, Sauté, Simmer
  • Cuisine: Latin American
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

A versatile plant-based protein that’s perfect for tacos, burritos, and more. This spicy vegan tempeh sofritas recipe is healthy and satisfying!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 Poblano Pepper (Roasted, Peeled and Chopped)
  • 1 Red Onion (Peeled and Chopped)
  • 3 Cloves Garlic (Peeled)
  • 2 Plum Tomatoes (Chopped)
  • 1/2 Cup Packed Fresh Cilantro
  • 1 Jalapeño (Deseeded)
  • 3 Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce
  • 2 Tbsp Adobo Sauce
  • 1 tsp Ground Cumin
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 Lime (Juiced)
  • 1/2 Cup Water
  • 2 Packages Tempeh (Crumbled)

Instructions

  1. Place the poblano pepper onto the stove burner. Turn the burner on high and carefully watch the pepper as the skin chars. Turn the pepper as needed until the whole pepper has charred.
  2. Peel the charred skin off the pepper and remove the seeds and quarter the remaining pepper.
  3. Add the roasted pepper to a food processor along with the onion, tomato, jalapeño, garlic, chipotle peppers with adobo sauce, dry spices, lime juice and water.
  4. Process until combined. Set aside.
  5. In a skillet over medium heat, add the crumbled tempeh and stir it occasionally until it is golden brown on all sides. Approx. 5 minutes.
  6. Next pour the puréed sauce into the pan and bring to a simmer.
  7. Allow to simmer, stirring occasionally for 7-10 minutes.
  8. Remove from heat and serve warm in your favorite taco, burrito, or nacho. Enjoy!
  9. Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.


Notes

  • The equipment listed above contains affiliate links to products that we personally use, love, and recommend!

Keywords: Tempeh Recipe, Vegan Sofritas Recipe, Chipotle Sofritas Copycat Recipe



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