Air-Fryer Tempeh: Quick, Crispy, And Healthy

Air-fried tempeh is a quick, easy, and delicious way to cook tempeh. It's a great option for those looking for a plant-based protein that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The air fryer cooks the tempeh in less than 15 minutes, making it a convenient choice for a busy weeknight dinner. You can marinate the tempeh before frying or toss it in a sauce afterward, and there are endless ways to season and serve it.

Marinating tempeh

There are many different types of marinade that can be used to flavour tempeh. A simple combination of balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, soy sauce, garlic, and olive oil is a popular choice. Alternatively, a marinade of coconut yoghurt, sriracha, maple syrup, and soy sauce will result in a curry-flavoured, slightly sweet sauce. Other marinade options include tandoori, satay, Korean BBQ, and spiced yoghurt.

When preparing your tempeh for marinating, it is recommended that you first boil or steam the tempeh to remove any bitter flavours. You can then slice the tempeh into your desired shape and size. Smaller pieces will result in a greater surface area for the marinade to coat. It is important to place the tempeh in a dish that is not too large, so the tempeh can soak in the marinade. Cover the dish with foil or wrap and place in the refrigerator for your desired amount of time.

Once you have finished marinating the tempeh, you can cook it in an air fryer at 400ºF for 8–10 minutes, or in an oven at 350ºF for 25–30 minutes.

Air fryer settings

When preparing tempeh in an air fryer, it is important to cut the tempeh into evenly sized pieces. Some recipes suggest cutting the tempeh into 1/4-inch or 1/2-inch slices, while others recommend breaking it into smaller pieces or cubes. Regardless of the shape, it is essential to ensure that the tempeh pieces are not too thin, as this can lead to dryness and excessive crispness.

The cooking time and temperature settings may vary slightly depending on the specific air fryer model and the size of the tempeh pieces. It is generally recommended to cook tempeh at a high temperature for a relatively short period, ranging from 8 to 12 minutes. During the cooking process, it is important to keep a close eye on the tempeh to prevent overcooking or burning. Checking on the tempeh halfway through the cooking time and during the final few minutes is a good practice. Additionally, shaking the air fryer basket or stirring the tempeh occasionally helps ensure even cooking and browning.

For those who prefer marinated tempeh, it is advisable to marinate the tempeh pieces before placing them in the air fryer. The marinade should be drained adequately from the tempeh before cooking. However, it is worth noting that some marinades tend to burn in the air fryer, so caution is necessary. Alternatively, a sauce can be added to the tempeh after it has been air-fried, allowing it to soak up the flavors better.

Sauce recipes

Air fryer tempeh is a versatile dish that can be served as a snack, appetizer, or as part of a meal. It can be paired with a variety of sauces, ranging from sweet and sticky to savoury and spicy. Here are some sauce recipes and ideas to accompany your air fryer tempeh:

Teriyaki Sauce

A popular choice to accompany tempeh, this sauce is sticky, sweet, and savoury. You can make your own by combining coconut aminos (or soy sauce), maple syrup, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch. Heat this mixture in a saucepan over medium-low heat, whisking until thickened. For a non-vegan option, you can replace the maple syrup with honey.

Korean BBQ Sauce

For a twist on the classic tempeh flavour, try tossing your air-fried tempeh in a Korean BBQ sauce. This sauce will give your tempeh a tangy, savoury flavour.

Smoky Maple Glaze

Coat your tempeh in a smoky maple glaze for a sweet and savoury combination. This glaze can be made by combining maple syrup, liquid smoke, and a touch of oil. You can adjust the consistency by adding more or less liquid smoke to suit your preference.

Spicy Sauce

For those who enjoy a kick of spice, sriracha is a great option. You can add sriracha to your tempeh before or after air frying. It gives the tempeh a thicker, glaze-like consistency and a tangy flavour. If you want to enhance the spice level, you can add more sriracha or include other spices like cayenne pepper or chili pepper.

Pot Sticker Dipping Sauce

If you prefer to dip your tempeh strips, you can serve them with a pot sticker dipping sauce. This sauce is typically savoury and slightly sweet, providing a tasty contrast to the crispy tempeh.

Vegan Sauce

For a vegan-friendly option, you can create a sauce using nutritional yeast, tamari (or soy sauce), maple syrup, and a touch of oil. This sauce will add flavour and contribute to the crispiness of your tempeh.

Remember, you can adjust the sauces to your taste preferences and feel free to experiment with different ingredients and spices to create your own unique sauce combinations!

Serving suggestions

Air fryer tempeh is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions to get you started:

Salads and Grain Bowls

Add some crunch to your salad or grain bowl by tossing in a handful of crispy tempeh cubes. The nutty taste of tempeh pairs well with a variety of greens, vegetables, and grains. You can also crumble the tempeh for a different texture.

Wraps and Sandwiches

Air fryer tempeh makes a great filling for wraps and sandwiches. Layer it with your favorite vegetables, sauces, and spreads. Try it in a banh mi sandwich or wrap it in lettuce cups for a lighter option.

Stir-Fries

Toss air fryer tempeh into your favorite stir-fry for a protein boost. It goes well with a variety of vegetables and sauces. Try it with a broccoli stir-fry or a quinoa bowl for a filling and nutritious meal.

Appetizers and Snacks

Air fryer tempeh can be enjoyed as a snack on its own or served as an appetizer. It's crispy, crunchy, and perfect for satisfying those savory cravings. Serve it with a dipping sauce like buffalo sauce, BBQ sauce, or sweet chili sauce.

Tacos

Crumble the tempeh and use it as a filling for tacos. Add your favorite toppings and sauces for a delicious and hearty vegetarian taco.

Customizable Options

The beauty of air fryer tempeh is that it can be customized to your taste preferences. Experiment with different sauces and seasonings to create your own unique flavor combinations. You can also try marinating the tempeh before air frying for added flavor.

With its versatility and quick preparation, air fryer tempeh is a great way to incorporate plant-based protein into your meals.

Storing and reheating

Leftover tempeh can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. It is best when fresh from the air fryer, but it can be reheated in the air fryer or in a skillet on the stovetop.

If you want to store the tempeh and sauce together, place them in a zipped bag and refrigerate. This will allow the tempeh to marinate, enhancing its flavor.

Tempeh is generally freezer-friendly, although one source mentions that they have not tried freezing it yet.

When reheating, it is important to note that the cook time may vary depending on the type of air fryer you own. It is recommended to check on the tempeh a few times during the reheating process to avoid burning. Additionally, the less moisture on the tempeh, the quicker it will cook.

Frequently asked questions