Air-Fryer Tempeh: A Healthy, Quick Cooking Method?

Cooking tempeh in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to make a delicious, crispy, and smoky dish. Tempeh is a plant-based protein made from fermented soybeans and is a tasty alternative to meat for non-meat eaters. It is also gluten-free and vegan. You can marinate the tempeh before frying it, and it can be cooked in the air fryer in just a few minutes.

Marinating tempeh

To marinate tempeh, you'll first need to slice it into cubes or strips. Smaller pieces will increase the surface area for the marinade, but you can also thinly slice the tempeh if you prefer. Place the sliced tempeh into a large bowl or container, then pour in your chosen marinade. Toss the tempeh until all the pieces are coated in the sauce. Cover the bowl or container and place it in the refrigerator to marinate.

There are many different marinade options you can use for tempeh. A simple option is to combine balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, soy sauce, garlic, and olive oil. You can also experiment with different spices and flavours, such as tandoori, satay, Korean BBQ, or spiced yoghurt. If you're looking for a smoky flavour, you can try adding liquid smoke to your marinade.

Once your tempeh has finished marinating, you can cook it in an air fryer at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping the tempeh halfway through. After cooking, you can brush the tempeh with leftover marinade for extra flavour.

Air fryer temperature and time

The temperature and time for cooking tempeh in an air fryer vary depending on the shape and size of the tempeh pieces, as well as the specific air fryer model being used. It's recommended to keep a close eye on the tempeh while it's cooking, especially at the halfway point and during the final 2 to 3 minutes.

For tempeh strips that are at least 1/4-inch thick, cook at 400°F for about 8 minutes, flipping halfway through. If the strips are thinner, reduce the cooking time to 7-8 minutes.

For tempeh cubes, cook at 350°F for about 10 minutes. If you prefer your tempeh well done, you can increase the cooking time to 10-14 minutes.

If you're cooking small triangles of tempeh, preheat the air fryer to 375°F and cook for 7-9 minutes.

It's worth noting that some air fryers may run hotter than others, so you may need to adjust the temperature and cooking time accordingly. The ideal doneness for tempeh is when it's golden brown, crispy, and has a slight char.

Slicing and cubing tempeh

To begin slicing and cubing your tempeh, start by cutting it into 1-inch cubes or 1/2-inch thick slices. You can also get creative and cut the tempeh into triangular "steaks", which will provide an interesting shape and texture to your dish. It is important to note that you should avoid slicing the tempeh too thinly, as this can cause it to dry out and become overly crisp. Aim for strips that are at least 1/4-inch thick.

Once you have your desired shape, you can then toss the tempeh pieces with a marinade of your choice. A classic combination is a sweet and savoury mix of tamari or soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, olive oil, and sriracha. You can also experiment with other ingredients such as coconut aminos, honey, avocado oil, or grapeseed oil. If you are using coconut aminos or soy sauce, consider adding more maple syrup to balance the flavours.

After marinating, you can cook the tempeh in an air fryer, following the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Typically, air-fried tempeh cooks at around 400°F for about 8-10 minutes, depending on the desired level of crispness. Remember to flip the tempeh halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking.

By following these steps for slicing, cubing, and cooking tempeh, you can create delicious and nutritious dishes that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Sauces and seasonings

Air-fried tempeh is a versatile dish that can be seasoned and sauced in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas for sauces and seasonings to elevate your air-fried tempeh:

Sauces

• Asian-inspired sauce: Combine coconut aminos or soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch. Whisk these ingredients in a saucepan over medium-low heat until thickened.
• Korean BBQ sauce: Toss the tempeh in this sauce for a flavorful twist.
• Teriyaki sauce: A sweet and savory option that pairs well with the nutty flavor of tempeh.
• Thai peanut sauce: A flavorful and creamy option.
• Barbecue sauce: A classic option for a tangy and slightly sweet flavor.
• Sweet chili sauce: For a sweet and spicy kick.
• Buffalo sauce: A bold and spicy choice.

Seasonings

• Nutritional yeast: Adds flavor and contributes to a crispy exterior.
• Cornstarch: Creates a batter-like coating for extra crispiness.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic, garlic powder, or garlic salt adds a pungent kick.
• Onion: Onion powder enhances the savory flavor of the tempeh.
• Smoked paprika: Adds a smoky depth of flavor.
• Black pepper: A dash of pepper adds warmth and spice.
• Cayenne pepper, cumin, chili pepper, or curry powder: For a spicy and flavorful kick.
• Italian seasoning blend: A versatile blend of herbs and spices.
• Salt: Brings out the flavors of the other ingredients.
• Liquid smoke: Adds a smoky flavor dimension.
• Maple syrup: A touch of sweetness enhances the overall flavor.
• Sriracha: Adds a tangy kick and a thicker glaze-like consistency to the marinade.

Feel free to experiment with different combinations of sauces and seasonings to find your favorite flavor profiles for air-fried tempeh.

Storing and reheating tempeh

If you won't be using your tempeh for several days or are unsure about your plans, consider putting it in the freezer. Frozen tempeh can safely last for at least a month, and often longer. To dry tempeh for even longer storage, slice it and arrange the pieces on dehydrator sheets. You can choose to season them as well. Dry the tempeh until it is completely firm and crisp. As with other foods, the more moisture is removed, the longer it will store. Keep dried tempeh in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dark location.

When reheating tempeh, you can use an air fryer or a skillet on the stovetop. It is recommended to consume leftover tempeh within five days. To ensure food safety, examine and smell the tempeh before and after reheating. If it looks and smells okay, it is likely safe to eat.

Frequently asked questions