Tempeh Bolognese

Tempeh replaces ground meat in this classic slowly-cooked Italian sauce. If you have never tried tempeh, it tastes similar to tofu but starchy and has a nutty flavor. Tempeh is fermented whole soybeans and is considered a super food. To reap the nutritional benefits of this super food, make sure you read the ingredients label and buy organic tempeh.

Organic tempeh is made from cultured organic soybeans which means that there are beneficial probiotics that's great for your digestive system. Aside from reaping the benefits of probiotics, tempeh is rich in manganese, calcium, fiber, and protein.

Ingredients

• 1 Tbs. plus 1 ½ tsp. olive oil, divided
• 1 medium onion, peeled and finely chopped (1 ½ cups)
• 1 large carrot, finely chopped (½ cup)
• 1 cup finely chopped celery
• 1 Tbs. dried oregano
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (1 Tbs.)
• 1 8-oz. pkg. tempeh
• 1 Tbs. reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 1 28-oz. can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• ½ cup dry white wine
• 2 Tbs. tomato paste
• 1 tsp. vegan Worcestershire sauce
• ½ cup low-fat evaporated skim milk

Directions

1. Heat 1 Tbs. oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, carrot, celery, oregano, and garlic, and cook 5 to 6 minutes, or until vegetables are browned, stirring often. 

2. Meanwhile, heat remaining 1 1/2 tsp. oil in separate skillet over medium heat. Add tempeh, and brown 2 minutes on each side. Add soy sauce and 1/2 cup water. Cook tempeh 5 minutes more, or until liquid has absorbed. Break tempeh into small crumbles with spatula.

3. Stir tempeh, tomatoes, wine, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce into onion mixture. Reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer, partially covered, 10 minutes. Stir in evaporated milk, and simmer 5 minutes more. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.

Makes 4 servings

Recipe by: Vegetarian Times