29-04-2025
Trumpeting good health with Tootie's Tempeh
Tempeh originated in Indonesia and is a staple protein for many cultures. It has an earthy, nutty flavor and firm, nubby texture (the cooked beans are visible in the pressed cake). Tootie's makes traditional and curry-seasoned tempeh (about $7 for 8 ounces). 'Think of tempeh as another protein,' says Speare. You can marinate it (or not) and prepare and cook it in various ways. You can slice it as thin as bacon or as thick as a burger patty and saute it; pan-fry little squares like chicken nuggets; and crumble and brown it like ground meat for tacos, chili, stuffed peppers, or to make meatballs. Like tofu, says Speare, 'it will take on whatever flavoring you give it.' In case you're wondering about the company's name, Tootie was Sarah's late mother's nickname because she called everyone 'Toots,' says Speare. Tootie was an early supporter of the environmental movement back in the 1960s and '70s and Speare has capably followed in her footsteps.
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Available at City Feed and Supply, 672 Centre St. (and 66a Boylston St.), Jamaica Plain, 617-524-5539; Debra's Natural Gourmet, 98 Commonwealth Ave., West Concord, 978-371-7573; and Pemberton Farms, 2225 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, 617-491-2244. Learn more at
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Lisa Zwirn can be reached at