TEMPEH FAJITAS

Strips of broiled tempeh marinated in lime, wrapped in a flour tortilla with peppers, onions, salsa, and cheese…a delicious vegetarian version of a popular Tex-Mex dish. Invite a group of friends to assemble their own fajitas. Serve Santa Fe Beans on the side.

SERVES 4

2 (250 gram) pkgs. tempeh, thawed

3 T. oil

3 T. tamari

3 T. lime juice

1 T. chili powder

pepper to taste

Using a long serrated knife, cut each square of tempeh in half through the middle to form two thin sheets. Cut each sheet into 4 strips. In a measuring cup, combine oil, tamari, lime juice, and seasonings. Spoon half of this marinade over a rimmed baking sheet. Lay out the tempeh strips in the marinade, and spoon remaining liquid over the strips. Let rest for 30 minutes. TURN ON THE BROILER UNIT OF THE OVEN. Drain the tempeh, reserving the marinade. Place the strips under the broiler at a distance of 6 to 8˝ and broil for 7 minutes on each side.

2 T. oil

2 medium onions, cut into crescents

1 small green bell pepper, julienned

1 small red bell pepper, julienned

Heat oil in a skillet. Sauté onions and peppers until well browned. Pour leftover marinade over the vegetables. Heat throughout; keep warm.

8 to 12 flour tortillas

2 medium tomatoes, diced

1 cup sour cream or yogurt

1¼ cups cheddar cheese, grated

1 to 2 cups picante sauce

2 limes, cut into wedges

Heat the tortillas on a griddle or in the oven; wrap them in a towel or foil to keep warm. Arrange tempeh and sautéed peppers on a platter. Place tomatoes and other toppings in small decorative bowls within easy reach. Invite each guest to load a warmed tortilla with tempeh, peppers, the condiments of her choice, and a squeeze of lime juice. For a real feast, serve with refried beans, guacamole, and corn tortilla chips.

For authentic flavour, cook the marinated tempeh on a barbeque grill. The flour tortillas may also be heated over the flames: lay them briefly on the grill, turning once. And while you’re grilling outside, why not husk several ears of corn, butter them, and cook them on the barbeque?