Spicy Tempeh Breakfast Sausage
Try this Spicy Tempeh Breakfast Sausage recipe
Try this Spicy Tempeh Breakfast Sausage recipe
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp ground cayenne pepper
- 4 cloves garlic minced (2 tbsp or 12 g)
- 8 ounces (227 g) tempeh*
- 1/4 white onion diced (~28 g)
- 1 tsp organic brown sugar or coconut sugar
- heaping 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1 1/2 tsp dried sage
- 2 tbsp (6 g) fresh chopped rosemary
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flake (plus more for spicier sausage)
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) vegan worcestershire sauce* (i like annie’
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) avocado grape seed, or olive oil* (or other neutral oil), plus more for cooking
- optional: pinch all spice
- optional: 1/2 tsp dried marjoram
- Carbohydrate 0.873925557692308 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.161772096153846 g
- Fiber 0.493838469806084 g
- Protein 0.181615230769231 g
- Saturated Fat 0.0506959230769231 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (47g)
- Sodium 0.497773076923077 mg
- Sugar 0.380087087886223 g
- Trans Fat 0.0215441153846154 g
- Calories 4 calories
Step-by-step
- Finely chop tempeh and add to a mixing bowl (or a food processor) along with remaining ingredients.
- Mix with clean hands (or pulse in the food processor) until very thoroughly combined. The texture should resemble sausage.
- Taste a small amount and adjust flavor as needed, adding more cayenne pepper or red pepper flake for heat, salt and pepper for overall flavor, brown sugar for sweetness, or paprika for smokiness.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably 24 hours, and up to 3 days to allow the flavors to develop.
- When ready to cook, line a 1/3 cup measuring cup with plastic wrap and fill with "sausage." Fold plastic wrap over the top and pack down. Then gently remove and set on a clean plate. Press down to form a 1/2-inch thick disc.
- Repeat until the mixture is used up - about 5 "sausages."
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add 1-2 Tbsp oil (or enough to coat the surface) and add only as many patties as will comfortably fit in the pan. Sprinkle with a bit more salt and pepper. (If trying to cut back on oil, see notes for baking instructions.)
- Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the underside is browned. Then gently flip (they can be fragile) and cook on the other side for 3-4 minutes more or until the underside is browned.
- Serve immediately. Store leftovers in the refrigerator up to 3-4 days or in the freezer up to 1 month. You can also make patties ahead of time (up to 1 month), freeze (uncooked), and then thaw before cooking.
My Spicy Tempeh Sausage Adventure: A Busy Mom's Guide to a Flavorful and Healthy Breakfast
Mornings are chaotic in our house. Between getting the kids ready for school, packing lunches, and trying to squeeze in a quick workout before work, finding time for a healthy and delicious breakfast often feels impossible. But I've discovered a game-changer: spicy tempeh breakfast sausage. It's not only packed with flavor, but it's also incredibly versatile and can be prepared ahead of time, saving me precious minutes on those crazy weekday mornings.
The recipe itself is surprisingly simple. I started experimenting with tempeh as a healthier alternative to traditional sausage, and I was blown away by the results. The slightly nutty flavor of the tempeh is a perfect base for the blend of spices I use – smoked paprika for a smoky depth, cayenne pepper for a kick, and a touch of thyme and sage for an earthy aroma. I even add a tiny bit of brown sugar to balance the spiciness and enhance the overall flavor profile. The process of making these sausages is quite therapeutic, too. There's something satisfying about mixing the ingredients together with my hands, feeling the texture change as everything combines. It's a nice mindful moment in the midst of a busy day.
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. I've adapted it over time to suit my own tastes and preferences, adding extra red pepper flakes for a fiery kick or experimenting with different herbs and spices. Sometimes I use a combination of olive oil and avocado oil for cooking, or I'll even try baking them for a healthier option. The possibilities are truly endless. And the best part? These little sausages are a hit with my whole family, even the picky eaters! They’re great on their own, but even better nestled into a whole-wheat English muffin with a fried egg and some avocado. They also make a fantastic addition to breakfast burritos, or even crumbled over a simple salad for a protein-packed lunch.
Preparing these sausages ahead of time is a lifesaver. I usually make a big batch on the weekend and store them in the freezer. When the morning rush hits, all I need to do is grab a few patties and pan-fry them. The whole process takes just a few minutes. This means I can enjoy a wholesome and flavourful breakfast without sacrificing precious morning time. For me, this spicy tempeh breakfast sausage is much more than just a meal; it’s a symbol of my ability to balance healthy eating with the demands of a busy lifestyle. It's a reminder that even amidst the chaos of motherhood and career, I can find time for myself and create something delicious and nourishing. It represents taking control of my mornings, fueling my day with healthy energy and starting each day with a burst of flavor and a smile.
Beyond Breakfast: Don't limit these tasty sausages to breakfast! They’re equally delicious for lunch or dinner. Think hearty sandwiches, salads, or even as a filling for stuffed bell peppers. Their versatility is truly a blessing for a busy person like me. They can be a great addition to any meal. The possibilities are endless.
Tips for Success:
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different spices to customize the flavor to your liking.
- If you’re short on time, you can skip the 24-hour refrigeration step, but the flavor will be more intense if you let them sit overnight.
- Cooking time may vary depending on your stovetop and the thickness of your patties.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to a month.
So, next time you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious breakfast (or lunch, or dinner!), give this spicy tempeh breakfast sausage a try. You won’t regret it. It’s a recipe that has become a staple in our home, a testament to the fact that delicious and healthy doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. It's a small act of self-care, a flavorful start to the day, and a reminder that even a busy mom can find time to make something special, even if it's just for breakfast.
