

Tempeh and North African Couscous Delight
This flavorful dish combines hearty tempeh with aromatic North African spices for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, it’s both nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients
Instructions
Marinate the Tempeh
In a bowl, whisk together water, soy sauce, honey, curry powder, garlic, lemon juice, and liquid smoke until smooth. Toss the tempeh in the marinade, making sure each piece is well coated. Let it sit for about 20 minutes, turning it occasionally so all sides soak up the flavor.
Cook and Fluff Couscous
Meanwhile, bring the vegetable broth, olive oil, curry powder, and a pinch of salt to a boil in a covered saucepan. Stir in the couscous, cover it back up, and take the pan off the heat. Let it steam for 5 minutes, then fluff it up gently with a fork.
Sear Tempeh in Skillet
Heat some olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tempeh along with any leftover marinade and cook until the bottom is nicely browned, about 5 minutes. Flip the pieces and cook the other side for another 5 minutes before removing them from the pan.
Saut onions and chickpeas
In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil and cook the chopped onion until it’s soft and golden, around 4 minutes. Stir in the chickpeas and a splash of water, scraping the bottom of the pan to lift any tasty browned bits. Let everything cook together for a few minutes, then lower the heat.
Fold in Couscous
Gently fold the couscous into the onion and chickpea mixture, then add the tempeh back in. Sprinkle fresh mint over the top and stir everything together until it’s warmed through, which should only take a couple of minutes. Serve and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish brings together the hearty texture of tempeh with the warm, aromatic spices of North Africa. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy plant-based protein while exploring bold flavors. The combination is both satisfying and nutritious, perfect for a wholesome meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad for added texture and freshness. A dollop of yogurt or a squeeze of lemon juice can also balance the spices nicely. This dish pairs well with a light, fruity white wine or a refreshing mint tea.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep the couscous moist. For longer storage, freeze portions and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.



