Description
Protein-packed plant-based stir-fry with sweet-savory sauce and crisp vegetables
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Ingredients
Scale
For the Stir-Fry:
- 8 oz tempeh, cubed (naturally fermented protein powerhouse)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips (creates gorgeous color variety)
- 1 cup fresh snow peas, trimmed (naturally vegan crisp perfection)
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil (don’t substitute—this flavor is essential)
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari (use good quality for best flavor)
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (creates perfect sweet-salty balance)
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced (don’t use powdered—fresh creates authentic depth)
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced (essential aromatic complexity)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your heat preference)
For Serving:
- Cooked brown rice (fluffy and nutritious base)
- Green onions, chopped for garnish (adds brightness and color)
- Sesame seeds for garnish (makes it look restaurant-fancy)
Instructions
- Create the magic sauce by whisking together soy sauce, maple syrup, minced ginger, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes until glossy and well combined.
- Heat your wok by warming sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat—proper temperature creates perfect browning without burning.
- Brown the protein by adding cubed tempeh and sautéing until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes—don’t stir too frequently for best texture.
- Add the rainbow by incorporating bell peppers and snow peas, cooking 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender and gorgeously colored—they should still have crunch.
- Glaze to perfection by pouring the beautiful sauce over everything, stirring to coat evenly and cooking 2-3 minutes until glossy and irresistible.
- Serve immediately over fluffy brown rice, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for that restaurant-quality presentation.
Notes:
- Don’t skip proper tempeh browning—it transforms the flavor from bland to incredible
- Vegetables should stay crisp-tender with vibrant colors for best texture and nutrition
- Serve immediately while hot for the perfect combination of textures
Storage Tips:
- Keeps in fridge for 3-4 days and actually tastes better as flavors meld
- Reheats beautifully in a skillet with a splash of water if needed
- Perfect for meal prep—make a big batch for quick healthy dinners all week
Serving Suggestions:
Perfect over brown rice or quinoa, incredible with Asian cucumber salad, or serve alongside vegetable spring rolls for a complete Asian feast.
Mix It Up:
- Mushroom Medley: Add shiitake mushrooms or broccoli with the peppers
- Protein Boost: Include edamame or cashews for extra richness
- Tropical Twist: Add fresh pineapple chunks for sweet and savory Hawaiian vibes
- Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add fresh sliced chilies for heat lovers
