Description
Tempeh inoculation uses the filamentous fungus Rhizopus oligosporus to colonize cooked soybeans, forming a cohesive cake through hyphal growth.
Technical
During colonization, Rhizopus oligosporus secretes extracellular enzymes that hydrolyze soybean proteins and lipids, generating peptides, amino acids, and fatty acids. These substrates are further metabolized to produce ethanol, organic acids (e.g., acetic, lactic), and volatile flavor compounds, while the fungal mycelium binds the kernels into a firm matrix.
Science
Primary Reaction
Colonization of soybeans by Rhizopus oligosporus hyphae leading to proteolysis and fermentation
Sensory Profile
Aroma ()
earthynuttyfermentedmildfreshmustymushroom-likeslightly sourwoodyyeasty