A Bold, Flavorful, and Nutrient-Packed Plant-Based Stir-Fry
If you love the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors, this Vegan Sweet & Sour Tempeh Stir-Fry with Pineapple is a must-try! With crispy tempeh, juicy pineapple, colorful bell peppers, and a bold, sticky sauce, this dish delivers a delicious fusion of Asian-inspired flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
Unlike traditional sweet and sour dishes that often contain meat and refined sugar, this plant-based version is healthier, protein-packed, and naturally sweetened. It’s an excellent alternative to takeout and can be served with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles for a satisfying, well-balanced meal.
This quick and easy stir-fry comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a flavorful lunch. Plus, it’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and can be made soy-free with simple ingredient swaps.
Why You’ll Love This Vegan Sweet & Sour Tempeh
1. Packed with Bold, Addictive Flavors
The homemade sweet & sour sauce is a perfect combination of sweetness from pineapple, tanginess from vinegar, and umami depth from tamari or soy sauce.
2. Crispy, Protein-Packed Tempeh
Tempeh is an excellent plant-based protein source, with a hearty texture that crisps up beautifully when stir-fried. It soaks up the sauce, making every bite flavorful.
3. A Rainbow of Fresh, Crunchy Vegetables
Bell peppers, carrots, and onions add crunch, color, and essential nutrients to this dish.
4. Naturally Sweetened with Pineapple
Instead of refined sugar, this dish gets its natural sweetness from juicy, caramelized pineapple chunks, making it a healthier alternative to traditional sweet & sour dishes.
5. Quick, Easy, and Customizable
Ready in just 30 minutes, this stir-fry is perfect for busy weeknights. You can easily customize the vegetables, adjust the spice level, or swap tempeh for tofu or chickpeas.
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Ingredients
For the Sweet & Sour Tempeh Stir-Fry:
- 1 (8 oz) package tempeh, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
- 1 tbsp neutral oil (avocado, coconut, or sesame)
- 1 small red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- 1 cup fresh or canned pineapple chunks
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 2 tbsp toasted cashews or sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- 2 tbsp green onions, sliced (for garnish)
For the Sweet & Sour Sauce:
- ¼ cup pineapple juice (from the canned pineapple or fresh)
- 2 tbsp tamari or soy sauce (use coconut aminos for soy-free)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar (for tanginess)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (or agave nectar)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste (adds depth and richness)
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1 tsp cornstarch, mixed with 1 tbsp water (for thickening)
For Serving:
- 2 cups steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or rice noodles
- Extra lime wedges for a fresh citrus kick
Ingredient Breakdown
Tempeh – A Protein Powerhouse
Tempeh is a fermented soybean product that’s high in protein, probiotics, and fiber. It has a firm, chewy texture and absorbs sauces beautifully, making it a fantastic plant-based alternative to meat.
Pineapple – The Naturally Sweet Element
Pineapple adds natural sweetness, a hint of tartness, and a juicy contrast to the crispy tempeh and veggies. Fresh or canned pineapple both work well.
Rice Vinegar – The Tangy Factor
Rice vinegar gives the sauce its signature tang, balancing the sweetness from the pineapple and maple syrup.
Cornstarch – The Secret to Crispiness & Thickness
Cornstarch helps create a crispy crust on the tempeh while also thickening the sauce to a glossy consistency.
Bell Peppers & Carrots – The Crunch Factor
These vegetables add texture, color, and a boost of vitamins, making this dish both delicious and nutritious.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tempeh
- Cut the tempeh into bite-sized cubes and toss them in 1 tbsp cornstarch to help them crisp up.
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the tempeh cubes and cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden brown on all sides.
- Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sweet & Sour Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, tamari (or soy sauce), rice vinegar, maple syrup, tomato paste, and chili flakes.
- In another small bowl, mix 1 tsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp water to create a slurry.
- Set both aside for later.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
- In the same pan, add garlic and ginger and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add sliced bell peppers, carrots, and red onion and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
- Stir in the pineapple chunks and cook for another 2 minutes until they begin to caramelize.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Return the crispy tempeh to the pan.
- Pour the sweet & sour sauce over the stir-fry and mix well.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry and let the sauce thicken for 1-2 minutes.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
- Remove from heat and garnish with toasted cashews or sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
- Serve over steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or noodles with lime wedges on the side.
Tips & Variations
- Make It Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- For Extra Crispiness: Bake the tempeh at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes before stir-frying.
- Switch Up the Protein: Try using tofu, chickpeas, or seitan instead of tempeh.
- Add More Heat: Increase the chili flakes or add sriracha for a spicier kick.
- Oil-Free Option: Steam the tempeh instead of frying and sauté the vegetables with vegetable broth instead of oil.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~390
- Protein: ~18g
- Carbohydrates: ~55g
- Fats: ~10g
- Fiber: ~6g
- Vitamin C: ~70% DV
- Iron: ~25% DV
This dish is high in plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a delicious and balanced meal.
Conclusion
This Vegan Sweet & Sour Tempeh Stir-Fry with Pineapple is a bold, tangy, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. It’s crispy, packed with flavor, and healthier than takeout, making it a must-try for any plant-based food lover.
Have you tried this recipe? Let me know how it turned out! Did you make any customizations? Share your experience in the comments below!
Disclaimer
Nutritional values are estimates. Always consult a professional for dietary advice.