Chicken thighs are the meaty, succulent part of the chicken above the knee joint, known for their dark, tender meat ideal for various cooking methods, including stewing, stir-frying, and grilling. Tempeh is a firm, nutty-flavored protein made from fermented soybeans, common in vegetarian and vegan dishes.
Chicken thighs are a part of the chicken located above the knee joint, known for their darker meat and rich flavor. They are often celebrated for their tenderness and ability to stay moist during cooking.
Tempeh is a traditional Indonesian food made from fermented soybeans. It has a firm texture and a nutty flavor, and it's a popular protein source in vegetarian and vegan diets.
Chicken thighs and tempeh differ greatly in taste, texture, and source. Chicken thighs are meatier with a succulent texture, while tempeh offers a nutty, earthy taste with a firm, chewy texture. Chicken is an animal-based product, whereas tempeh is plant-based, making it suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
In stews, chicken thighs contribute a hearty, comforting flavor. They're ideal in recipes like Coq au Vin or Chicken Cacciatore, where slow cooking brings out their depth of flavor. Tempeh can be used in stews as a meat substitute, absorbing flavors from sauces and spices. It's excellent in dishes like vegan chili or tempeh bourguignon, providing a satisfying texture.
Chicken thighs are a natural fit for stir-fries due to their juiciness and flavor. They work well in recipes like General Tso's Chicken or Pad Thai, offering a tender bite amidst the medley of veggies and sauce. Tempeh can be sliced or crumbled into stir-fries for a protein boost. Try it in a tempeh and broccoli stir-fry or a spicy Szechuan tempeh, where its firmness adds a delightful contrast.
Grilled chicken thighs are a barbecue staple. Marinate them for dishes like grilled chicken tacos or a classic BBQ chicken, where the skin crisps up beautifully over the flames. Marinated tempeh steaks are an excellent grilled option for those avoiding meat. They're perfect for creating plant-based versions of dishes like tempeh kebabs or grilled tempeh salad.
Chicken thighs are a rich source of animal protein and contain more saturated fat, while tempeh is a complete plant protein and is higher in fiber.
| Nutrient | Tempeh ( per 100 grams ) | Chicken Thighs ( per 100 grams ) |
|---|---|---|
| Fat | 10.8g | 10.9g |
| Fiber | 6.7g | 0g |
| Protein | 18.5g | 26g |
| Calories | 193 | 209 |
| Cholesterol | 0mg | 88mg |
| Carbohydrates | 7.6g | 0g |
Yes, tempeh is a good plant-based substitute for chicken as it offers a high protein content, though the types of protein will differ due to their different sources.
While the inherent flavors differ, with proper seasoning and marinating, tempeh can be made to mimic the savory taste of chicken thighs to some extent.
To substitute chicken thighs with tempeh, marinate the tempeh for flavor, then cook it by grilling, stir-frying, or baking until it's heated through and has a nice sear.
Opting for tempeh generally has a lower environmental impact than chicken thighs, as plant-based proteins typically require fewer resources and produce less greenhouse gas emissions than animal-based proteins.
Certain dishes that rely on the specific flavor and fat content of chicken, such as traditional fried chicken, may not be well-suited for tempeh as a substitute.
