FAQ's

HOW LONG DOES MY HOLY TEMPEH LAST?

Similar to other fresh organic foods, tempeh lasts between 7-10 days in a refrigerator (and occasionally longer). Tempeh will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

WHAT SHOULD I DO WITH MY HOLY TEMPEH WHEN I RECEIVE IT?

We recommend you refrigerate your tempeh to slow down the fermentation process. We also advise the tempeh be stored inside the brown bag you’ll receive it in, as this will keep your tempeh fresher for longer. Since tempeh is considered “live food,” it will continue to ferment even in the cold, though the cold temperature stunts the growth of the mycelium, helping your tempeh stay fresher for longer. You may also freeze your tempeh however this may affect the taste and texture.

HOW DO I DEFROST FROZEN HOLY TEMPEH?

Simply remove your frozen tempeh from its plastic packaging, wrap it in kitchen towel and transfer it to your fridge. Let it defrost for two or three hours. We recommend cooking the tempeh shortly after thawing.

WHY ARE THERE HOLES IN MY BAG?

We perforate our bags before fermentation to allow for air circulation. This lets the mycelium grow and expand between the soybeans. Because tempeh is a live product, its culture, quite literally, needs air to breathe. This “breathing” determines how well the finished tempeh binds together.

WHAT IS THE "WHITE STUFF" ON MY TEMPEH?

The soft white material is the mycelium of the Rhizopus mould. This is where the magic happens… Mycelium breaks down the beans making them more digestible. It also binds the beans together, helping to create the delicious block we call tempeh. Taaa dahh!

WHAT IF THE TEMPEH HAS GREY SPOTS, IS THIS OKAY?

Yes grey spots are okay. Occasionally you may see your tempeh has black spots most commonly found on the corners.. This does not mean your tempeh is ‘”off” or “moldy” in the bad sense of the word. These spots are where the Rhizopus has formed spores - a sign of the beginning of overripe tempeh. But don’t worry, this is safe to eat. Some people even prefer the taste of mature tempeh.

HOW WILL I KNOW IF MY TEMPEH HAS GONE BAD?

Good tempeh is firm with a thick, white mycelium and it has a mushroom-like aroma. Signs of spoilage are a slimy, sticky or mushy texture. Dark brown beans without mycelium, bad odors, and pink or green discolouration indicate that tempeh has gone bad. Still not sure? Send us a WhatsApp on 025610054 and we’ll be happy to help.