Because you don't have to wait for Tuesday to enjoy a perfectly seasoned, protein-packed taco night.
Much like pizza, I’ve never met anyone who doesn't love a good taco. Have you? They even named a whole day after it. Say it with me: Taco Tuesdays!
But Tuesday or not, our family absolutely loves tacos—especially these all plant-based, cast iron seared Tempeh Tacos.
These tacos are packed with clean protein, gut-loving prebiotics, and essential vitamins and minerals. Honestly, nothing beats fresh tempeh. I got completely spoiled living on a tropical island in the Philippines for nearly two years, where we found a fabulous tempeh purveyor in Bonifacio Global City (BGC) in Taguig, Manila. Having never had fresh tempeh before that trip, it was an absolute game-changer.
Since fresh, island-made tempeh is a little harder to source back here in California, I made sure to craft a spice blend that seasons it just right to bring out that incredible, smoky flavor for Taco Night.
The topper lineup.
We topped these crunchy taco shells with my signature Creamy Cilantro Lime Drizzle and all the usual suspects:
Serrano peppers for a vibrant kick
Crisp purple onions & chopped Romaine lettuce
Vine-ripened Roma tomatoes & homemade Salsa Fresca
Dairy-free Crema & Cheddar cheese
And a massive extra dose of LOVE!
Made with so much love, in fact, that we turned it into a colorful feast. We served it alongside my Spicy Green Beans + Baby Corn, Pinto Beans, and Vine-Ripened Tomato Stew over hot, steamy rice. Prepare to be completely stuffed when you try these with all the toppers!
The Alchemist’s Lifestyle Tip: Batch & Freeze
As a Lifestyle Alchemist, I am all about setting boundaries around your time and protecting your peace. Standing in the kitchen cooking from scratch every single night isn't always realistic when life gets busy.
That’s why I treat taco meat exactly like Tamales. I love making great big batches of this perfectly seasoned tempeh "meat" and freezing it. On those long days when you are short on time but long on cravings, your future self will thank you for having a clean, vibrant meal ready to go in minutes.
Hungry for more? You can check out a collection of my other favorite internationally inspired recipes in my cookbook, The Graves' Disease Chef - How to Master Simple to Gourmet Plant-Based Flavors from Around the World, available right here in the shop!
Check out other great recipes in my book, here.
