These quick and flavorful vegan sausage crumbles are made from tempeh and seasoned with classic Italian herbs and spices, perfect for topping pizzas, adding to pasta dishes, or filling tacos and burritos.
Ingredients:
1 (8ounce) package tempeh, cut into 1inch cubes (ensure it’s glutenfree if needed)
1 ½ teaspoons fennel seeds
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4–1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper (adjust depending on desired spiciness)
2 tablespoons avocado or olive oil
1 tablespoon tamari (ensure it’s glutenfree if needed)
2 teaspoons maple syrup (for balancing the flavor)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tempeh Crumbles:
Add the cubed tempeh, fennel seeds, thyme, smoked paprika, garlic powder, sea salt, and crushed red pepper to a food processor. Process for 10 to 15 seconds until you get a chunky crumble. Be careful not to overprocess, as the tempeh will break down further during cooking.
2. Cook the Tempeh:
Heat a large castiron or other rimmed skillet over mediumhigh heat. Once hot, add the avocado or olive oil.
Add the tempeh crumbles to the skillet, spreading them out in an even layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 5 to 6 minutes so they brown on one side.
Stir and cook for another 23 minutes to ensure even browning.
3. Add Flavor:
Once the tempeh is browned and crispy, turn off the heat. Add the tamari and maple syrup, and mix well to combine.
4. Serve:
Enjoy the crumbles right away as a pizza topping, in pasta dishes, or in tacos or burritos.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
Recipe Details:
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Tips for Success:
1. Tempeh Preparation: If you find tempeh too bitter, you can steam it for 10 minutes before processing. This will help mellow out its flavor.
2. Texture Preference: For a finer crumble, process the tempeh a bit longer. For chunkier crumbles, be sure not to overprocess in the food processor.
3. Flavor Customization: You can adjust the spices to your taste. Add more red pepper flakes for extra heat or swap out the smoked paprika for regular paprika if you prefer a milder flavor.
4. Storing Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 34 days. If freezing, portion out the crumbles for easy use later, and freeze for up to 1 month.
5. Serving Ideas: These crumbles are incredibly versatile! Use them in spaghetti sauce, vegan lasagna, tacos, burritos, salads, or even breakfast scrambles.
Enjoy your quick and tasty vegan sausage crumbles! Perfect for adding savory, hearty flavor to your favorite dishes. 🌱
