Have you ever wanted to try a plant-based meal that’s not only healthy but also deliciously satisfying? Air Fryer Tempeh is here to meet that need, offering crispy perfection and smoky flavor in just a few easy steps. If you’ve never tried tempeh before, or you’re looking for a new way to incorporate plant-based protein into your meals, this recipe will become your go-to favorite.
Tempeh, a fermented soy product, has an incredibly hearty and nutty texture, making it perfect for a variety of dishes. When cooked in the air fryer, it crisps up beautifully on the outside while staying tender on the inside. The secret to its bold flavor lies in the smoky maple-soy glaze that coats each piece, elevating this dish to a whole new level. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just looking for a healthy snack, Air Fryer Tempeh checks all the boxes.
This recipe is quick, easy, and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re new to tempeh or a seasoned fan, you’ll love the versatility and flavor this recipe offers. Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide to making Air Fryer Tempeh, a dish you’ll be excited to share with friends and family.
Table of Contents
Nutrition Information:
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 4 ounces of tempeh)
- Calories: 275 kcal
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Tempeh Recipe
- Quick & Easy: In just 45 minutes, including marination, you’ll have a full batch of crispy, smoky tempeh that’s perfect for a variety of meals.
- Versatile & Flavorful: Whether you’re tossing it on top of a salad, adding it to a wrap, or snacking on it by itself, Air Fryer Tempeh is as versatile as it is delicious.
- High in Protein: Tempeh is a fantastic source of plant-based protein, making it an excellent choice for vegans, vegetarians, and anyone looking to boost their protein intake.
- Customizable: You can easily make this recipe your own by adjusting the flavors. Prefer more spice? Add extra sriracha. Want a sweeter glaze? Add a bit more maple syrup.
- Gluten-Free & Oil-Free Options: With simple substitutions like tamari for soy sauce and an option to skip the oil, this recipe is adaptable to a wide variety of dietary needs.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
Tempeh
Tempeh is the star of this dish, providing a nutty, hearty texture and a plant-based source of protein. It’s made from fermented soybeans, which gives it a firmer texture than tofu.
- Substitution: If you can’t find tempeh or prefer something else, tofu can work in a pinch. However, note that tofu has a softer texture than tempeh, and you may need to press it beforehand to remove excess water.
Tamari or Soy Sauce
Tamari is a gluten-free substitute for regular soy sauce. It has a slightly richer flavor, but if you’re not avoiding gluten, regular soy sauce will work just as well.
- Substitution: If you prefer coconut aminos, that’s a great option too, though it will change the flavor slightly since coconut aminos are a bit sweeter.
Maple Syrup
Maple syrup brings a natural sweetness that complements the smoky flavors in the tempeh.
- Substitution: Agave nectar, brown sugar, or coconut sugar are good alternatives if you don’t have maple syrup on hand. Keep in mind, though, that these options may not impart the same depth of flavor.
Liquid Smoke
Liquid smoke is what gives the tempeh its signature smoky flavor, making it taste like it’s been grilled without the actual grill.
- Substitution: If you don’t have liquid smoke, you can skip it, but the tempeh will lack that deep smokiness. A dash of smoked paprika could also give it some smokiness.
Sriracha
The sriracha adds a bit of heat and sweetness to the marinade.
- Substitution: If you’re not a fan of spicy food, you can omit the sriracha or use a milder hot sauce.
How to Make Air Fryer Tempeh (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by whisking together the tamari, maple syrup, sriracha, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, liquid smoke, and spices. This marinade is the flavor-packed foundation for your Air Fryer Tempeh, so make sure every ingredient is well combined.
Step 2: Slice the Tempeh
Cut your tempeh into small cubes—roughly 1-inch pieces. This will help the tempeh absorb more of the marinade and crisp up beautifully in the air fryer.
Step 3: Marinate
Place the tempeh in the bowl with the marinade and toss it to coat all the pieces evenly. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, stirring halfway through. The longer you let the tempeh marinate, the stronger the flavor will become.
Step 4: Air Fry
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Once the tempeh is ready, arrange it in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Add water to the basket to help with steaming and prevent bitterness. Air fry for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crisping.
Step 5: Serve
When the tempeh turns golden brown and crispy, take it out of the air fryer and serve it! Incorporate it into your favorite dishes, or enjoy it on its own as a protein-rich snack.
Expert Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Make sure the tempeh pieces are spread out evenly in the air fryer basket. If they’re too crowded, they won’t cook evenly or get crispy.
- Customize the Marinade: Adjust the marinade to suit your flavor preferences. Add more maple syrup for sweetness or increase the sriracha for extra heat.
- Check the Tempeh Halfway: Flip the tempeh halfway through cooking to ensure it crisps evenly on all sides.
Variations and Customizations(Air Fryer Tempeh.)
- BBQ Tempeh: Swap out the maple syrup for BBQ sauce and add extra garlic powder for a smoky BBQ flavor.
- Crispy Buffalo Tempeh: Add buffalo sauce and a bit of extra cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
- Sweet & Spicy: Increase the amount of maple syrup and sriracha for a sweeter and spicier version of Air Fryer Tempeh.
Storage and Reheating Instructions(Air Fryer Tempeh.)
- Storage: Keep any leftover tempeh in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It will still be delicious, though it’s best enjoyed fresh from the air fryer.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the tempeh back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to restore its crispy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Air Fryer Tempeh with:
- A fresh garden salad topped with avocado and vegan dressing.
- A quinoa or rice bowl with sautéed veggies and a tangy tahini dressing.
- Tacos or wraps with crispy tempeh, lettuce, and a drizzle of vegan sour cream.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)(Air Fryer Tempeh)
Is it necessary to add water to the bottom of the air fryer?
No, you don’t have to, but it helps! Adding water creates a steaming effect that helps reduce tempeh’s natural bitterness, keeping it moist while allowing the edges to crisp up.
Can I use tofu instead of tempeh?
Yes, you can! While tempeh has a firmer texture, tofu will work in this recipe as well. Be sure to press the tofu first to eliminate any excess moisture.
Related Recipes
- Air Fryer Tofu: Try this crispy, savory air fryer tofu recipe for another protein-packed vegan treat.
- Vegan BBQ Chickpea Salad: A protein-rich salad that makes for a great side dish to accompany your Air Fryer Tempeh.
In just under an hour, you can prepare a delicious, smoky, and crispy Air Fryer Tempeh that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re looking for a savory snack or a plant-based protein to add to your dinner, this recipe delivers on both flavor and ease. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy tempeh in a new and exciting way. Give it a try, and let us know how you customize it!
Best Air Fryer Tempeh: A Crispy, Smoky, and Flavorful Vegan Delight
Ingredients
- 8 ounces tempeh 1 package
- 1 ½ tablespoons tamari for gluten-free or soy sauce
- 1 ½ tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons cooking oil e.g., avocado or grapeseed; omit for oil-free or use tahini
- 2 teaspoons sriracha
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon liquid smoke
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Scant ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¾ to 1 cup water for air fryer
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade
- In a large bowl, whisk together the tamari (or soy sauce), maple syrup, cooking oil (if using), sriracha, apple cider vinegar, liquid smoke, garlic powder, sea salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper. This smoky-sweet glaze will give the tempeh its signature flavor.
- Cut the Tempeh
- Slice the tempeh into cubes, either 24 smaller pieces or 36 depending on how small you prefer the pieces. Smaller pieces provide more surface area for the marinade to soak in, creating a tastier dish.
- Marinate the Tempeh
- Toss the tempeh cubes in the marinade until they are well coated. Set aside for at least 30 minutes. During this time, it’s a good idea to stir the tempeh once or twice to make sure every piece is coated in the marinade.
- Preheat the Air Fryer
- While the tempeh marinates, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the tempeh cooks evenly and crisps up perfectly.
- Cook the Tempeh
- After the tempeh has marinated, place it in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Add about ¾ to 1 cup of water to the bottom of the air fryer basket to help create steam. This keeps the tempeh moist while it cooks and helps reduce any bitterness. Cook the tempeh for about 10 minutes, checking it halfway through. The tempeh should be golden and slightly crispy around the edges when done.
- Serve
- Once the tempeh is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and serve immediately. Enjoy it on salads, in grain bowls, or simply as a high-protein snack.
Notes
- Air Fryer Tip: Air fryers can vary in temperature, so you may need to adjust the temperature or cooking time depending on your model. Check your tempeh around the 8-minute mark to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
- Baking Instructions: If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the tempeh at 425°F for 20 to 24 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet, flipping halfway through. The tempeh will be crispy and delicious!
- Storage: Leftover tempeh can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It tastes great fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can reheat it in the air fryer to restore its crispy texture.