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Steam or bake tempeh until it's very tender, then cut into finger-length strips about 5cm long and the width of two adult fingers. The strips should be soft enough to squash easily between your fingers. You can serve plain steamed tempeh strips for your baby to hold and gnaw on, or try gently pan-frying in a small amount of oil with mild spices like cumin or paprika.
Continue offering finger-length strips of fully cooked tempeh, or begin breaking it into smaller bite-sized pieces as your baby develops their pincer grasp. You can shred or flake cooked tempeh and mix it into grain bowls, mashed vegetables, or pasta dishes. Keep tempeh moist by serving it with sauces, dips, or mixed into foods with natural moisture.
Offer tempeh in small bite-sized pieces or strips that your toddler can manage independently with their hands or a fork. Continue to ensure pieces stay moist by serving with dips, sauces, or incorporated into family meals like stir-fries, curries, or wraps. Avoid dry or overcooked edges which can be harder to chew and swallow safely.
Tempeh is an excellent source of plant-based protein, which supports your baby's growth and development. It also provides important nutrients including calcium, B vitamins, and prebiotics from the fermentation process, which support gut health. Additionally, tempeh contains moderate amounts of iron, particularly when paired with vitamin C-rich foods to enhance absorption.
Tempeh is made from soya beans and is therefore a soy allergen, one of the common food allergens. When introducing tempeh, offer a small amount at first and watch for signs of an allergic reaction such as hives, swelling, vomiting, or difficulty breathing.
Always supervise meals. Adjust textures to your baby's stage. Medical questions belong with your health professional. Source: babyledweaningfoods.com/foods/tempeh-strip