This GAIN Working Paper (No. 62) examines whether alternative legumes—jack beans, mung beans, peanuts, and mixed-bean blends—can reduce Indonesia’s reliance on imported soybeans for tempeh production. With 2.6–2.8 million tons of soybeans imported annually, the country faces supply instability and price volatility. The study combined field research, stakeholder interviews, consumer surveys, sensory testing, and economic modelling to assess feasibility.
Jack bean tempeh emerged as the most promising option. It is nutritionally comparable to soybean tempeh (high fibre, low fat) and offers the lowest raw material cost and strongest profit potential, despite supply-chain challenges. A 60:40 soybean–jack bean blend provides a practical transition pathway.
While consumer acceptance was higher in Greater Jakarta than Aceh, targeted farmer partnerships, improved processing, and strong nutrition-focused branding could support scale-up. Overall, jack bean and mixed-bean tempeh offer a viable strategy to strengthen domestic agriculture, reduce import dependence, and enhance food system resilience in Indonesia.