Marinated and Pan-Fried Tempeh

Marinated and Pan-Fried Tempeh Ingredients: 1 package (8 ounces) tempeh 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free option) 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar 1 clove garlic, minced 1 teaspoon grated ginger 1 tablespoon sesame oil or olive oil Optional: Red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce for heat (to taste) Salt and pepper, to taste 1-2 tablespoons cooking oil (for frying) Instructions: Prepare the Tempeh: Cut the tempeh into desired shapes (slices, cubes, triangles). Steam the tempeh for about 10 minutes to reduce bitterness and soften it slightly. This step is optional but recommended for better texture and flavor absorption. Make the Marinade: In a shallow dish or bowl, whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup or honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and optional red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce. Taste the marinade and adjust seasoning if needed with salt and pepper.