# Tempe

/ˈtɛmpi/ (US) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/tempe
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a traditional Indonesian food made from fermented soybeans. It has a firm texture and a nutty flavor, and it is often used as a meat substitute.

For teachers: a fermented soy product originating from Indonesia, produced by a natural culturing and controlled fermentation process that binds soybeans into a cake form. It is distinguished from tofu by its whole-bean texture and higher protein and fiber content.

## Examples

- I like to fry tempe until it is crispy.
- Many vegetarians use tempe as a protein-rich alternative to meat in stir-fries and salads because of its firm, chewy texture.
- While tofu is made from coagulated soy milk, tempe utilizes the whole bean and a specific fungal starter, resulting in a more complex nutritional profile and a distinctively earthy aroma.

## Usage notes

- Often treated as uncountable when referring to the food substance, though it can be countable when referring to individual cakes or varieties.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.