Why does tempeh taste bitter, and how do I fix that?

That bitterness? Totally normal it comes from fermentation. To tone it down, slice the tempeh thin and steam or pressure-cook it for about 5 to 10 minutes before adding sauces. (Trust me, this one step changes everything.) Bonus: it also helps the flavors soak in better later.

Why does my tempeh still taste bitter even after steaming?

A couple of reasons. First, make sure you're slicing it thin enough thick chunks hold more of that fermented edge. Second, check your brand. Some pre-cooked or pasteurized tempeh has a stronger bite. Lastly, don’t skip the sauce. Tempeh loves bold flavors the bland stuff just doesn’t cut it here.

Can I freeze this if I made swaps?

Yep just think texture. Tofu gets chewier after freezing, but it’s still totally edible (and some people prefer it that way). Beans and potatoes hold up fine. Just let everything cool first, and freeze flat if you can it thaws way faster that way.

Can I use tempeh straight from the package?

You can but you might not want to. Right out of the pack, tempeh has this funky, slightly bitter edge. Some people don’t mind it; I personally find it harsh unless it’s mellowed out a bit. Steaming it for five minutes? Total game changer. It doesn’t just soften the flavor it opens it up so whatever marinade or sauce you throw at it actually sticks.

I want that crispy edge can I get that with the Instant Pot?

Not really. The Instant Pot is a sauce-lover’s tool it softens, simmers, soaks. If you want crisp, use it first to cook the tempeh through, then finish with a quick sear in a pan or a blast in the air fryer. It’s a little extra effort, but totally worth it when you bite into those caramelized edges.

How long do leftovers last?

Tempeh meals are fridge-friendly. Most of them taste even better after a day or two once everything’s had time to settle. Just store them in a sealed container, and when you reheat especially saucy stuff add a splash of water or veggie broth to loosen it back up. Dry microwave tempeh is... no one’s favorite.

Can I eat tempeh raw?

Technically? Yes. Will you enjoy it? Probably not. It’s fermented, so it’s safe, but the texture is squeaky and the flavor’s kind of like if mushrooms and nuts got into a fight. Cook it steam, sauté, pressure cook whatever you’ve got. It doesn’t need much, just… something.

Easy Tempeh Instant Pot Meals You’ll Actually Crave

Quick & Easy Tempeh Instant Pot Meals for Busy Weeknights

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A creamy, spiced tempeh tikka masala made in the Instant Pot. Rich, comforting, and weeknight-easy.

Author: hass taam
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Instant Pot
Cuisine: Indian-Inspired
Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Scale

1 block tempeh, cubed

1 small onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 inch fresh ginger, grated (or 1 tsp powdered)

1 tsp garam masala

1/2 tsp ground turmeric

1/2 tsp ground cumin

1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)

1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)

1 can full-fat coconut milk (14 oz)

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tbsp oil (optional)

Cashew cream (optional, for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Optionally steam tempeh for 5–10 minutes to reduce bitterness.

2. Set Instant Pot to “Sauté.” Add oil, onion, and a pinch of salt. Sauté until softened.

3. Add garlic and ginger. Cook 1 minute more.

4. Add spices, stir briefly to toast.

5. Add tempeh, diced tomatoes, and coconut milk. Stir well.

6. Seal lid. Pressure cook on High for 6 minutes. Natural release for 5 minutes, then quick release.

7. Open lid, stir, and adjust seasoning. Add cashew cream if desired.

8. Serve hot with basmati rice or naan.

Notes

Steaming tempeh first greatly improves flavor.

For extra creaminess, add a swirl of cashew cream at the end.

Leftovers taste even better the next day.

Great with fresh cilantro or lemon juice on top.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 380
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Find it online: https://www.everydayplantkitchen.com/easy-tempeh-instant-pot-meals/