Instructions

1. Marinate the Tempeh – Build That Flavour!
In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, smoked paprika, and chili powder until smooth. Toss in the tempeh slices, ensuring they’re fully coated with the smoky, spicy marinade. Let them soak in the goodness for at least 15 minutes.

2. Sizzle the Tempeh to Perfection
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Pan-fry the marinated tempeh slices until golden and crispy on both sides. Set them aside, but don’t snack on them all just yet—they’re the star of the show!

3. Whip Up the Creamy Carbonara Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together cream, vegetable stock, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. You’re aiming for a smooth, luscious sauce that will coat your pasta like a hug. Adjust the thickness to your liking by adding a splash of stock if needed.

4. Cook Your Pasta Like a Pro
Boil the pasta in salted water until it’s cooked perfection (check the package for the right timing). Before draining, scoop out a cup of that starchy pasta water—it’s liquid gold for your sauce!

5. Get the Garlic Going
In the same skillet where you cooked the tempeh (because who wants extra dishes?), heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté until it’s fragrant and just starting to turn golden.

6. Bring It All Together
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and pour in your creamy carbonara sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated in silky, garlicky goodness. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a bit of that reserved pasta water until it’s just right.

7. Top with the Star – Spicy Tempeh!
Lay those crispy, flavourful tempeh slices on top of your pasta for a stunning finishing touch.

8. Serve and Impress
Plate up your pasta masterpiece, sprinkle generously with freshly ground black pepper, and serve it hot.