26 Comments
User's avatar
Erin Henderson's avatar

I’m a huge fan of tempeh! Far more than tofu. I’ve added this recipe to my list!

It seems like this recipe is flexible enough so you could swap ginger and cilantro for something like basil and chilies for an Italian-esque riff.

Expand full comment
Lukas Volger's avatar

I feel like I'll get there, too! I think the basil and chilies would work for sure - let me know if you give it a try.

Expand full comment
Jenna Helwig's avatar

I actually really love tempeh! (Although I'm the only one in my family unfortunately.) I'm adding these to my list; could be good to take to the office for lunch. Thank you!

Expand full comment
Lukas Volger's avatar

I love its texture so much - it's so rare to get that chewy density in plant-based stuff.

Expand full comment
Eva's avatar

This looks fantastic. How key is the pineapple juice for this? Can I get away with using maybe a mix of some cider vinegar and honey for the mix of sweet and acidic?

Expand full comment
Lukas Volger's avatar

I'd say it's fairly key? It is a large part of what gives them their full flavor.

Expand full comment
Blake Bachman's avatar

Ffff ya!!! EXACTLY the Lukas Lunch I’m craving!! Tempting tempeh balls with cucumber and a punchy lunchy vinaigrette… hopefully I can use Trader Joe’s tempeh… I think radish green & Serrano hot sauce could further punch it as we slowly move into summer (craving HEAT) ✅✅✅

Expand full comment
Lukas Volger's avatar

Punchy Lunchy - I feel that this is a zine we should create?

Expand full comment
Becky Daniel's avatar

I was a tempeh skeptic after a previous recipe that only turned out ok at best (not from Family Friend). This one totally turned me around on it! Delicious! Please keep them coming, as I appreciate the variety of working tempeh into my diet.

Expand full comment
Lukas Volger's avatar

That’s awesome - so glad to hear. More tempeh recipes are in the pipeline!

Expand full comment
Alexandra Shytsman's avatar

Whoa pineapple juice?! I'm intrigued. Love a tempeh meatball - will have to try these!

Expand full comment
Kate Cone Brancaccio's avatar

I’ll try this Lukas! Thanks for sharing it.

Expand full comment
Jabberwocky's avatar

Thanks, Lukas! I made these for dinner last night and they were a huge hit. I truly appreciate your commitment to tempeh, especially as I’m trying to increase my protein intake. Adding this to the regular rotation :-)

Expand full comment
Lukas Volger's avatar

So delighted to hear! Thanks for trying them out.

Expand full comment
Kim Hutchinson's avatar

Okay. Wow. These were delicious. And the meatballs actually held their shape! THANK YOU for a great dinner!

Expand full comment
Lukas Volger's avatar

I'm so glad to hear that!

Expand full comment
Sharon's avatar

Wonderful.. thanks so much ♥️

Expand full comment
Ken Fornataro's avatar

Recipe downloaded well. The biggest issue that most people have with tempeh is that it's most often made with soybeans. I make tempeh from everything but, and post at my Substack, etc. It's a ratio thing. You need a certain amount of protein, carbs to start the Rhizopus spp., and never greater than 20% fat. Add some coriander seeds and liquid smoke to your recipe and they will actually taste like meat.

Expand full comment
Lukas Volger's avatar

Awesome, I'll have to give it a try.

Expand full comment
Adam Roberts's avatar

Thanks so much, Lukas! I'm getting a t-shirt that says "genre-defining food blogger" :)

Expand full comment
Lukas Volger's avatar

You can wear it like a trophy!

Expand full comment
Maggie Hoffman's avatar

These look so great!

Expand full comment
Lukas Volger's avatar

Thanks, Maggie!

Expand full comment
Barry Schwartz's avatar

thanks lukas for sticking with tempeh. of course you know commercial tempeh is not good. people have to try fresh tempeh like mine or go to indonesia where tempeh is made to enjoy the wonderful flavor and texture of tempeh. hope you're well.

Expand full comment
Lukas Volger's avatar

Yes, of course - I had a failed batch and lost my mojo, but need to pick it back up now with the warmer weather.

Expand full comment
Christina's avatar

Do you think these would freeze well? My bet is yes but curious if you’ve tried it

Expand full comment