Air Fryer Tempeh Recipe
This Air Fryer Tempeh recipe features cubed tempeh marinated in a blend of tamari, maple syrup, sriracha, and smoky spices, then air-fried to caramelized edges. The marinade balances sweet, savory, and smoky flavors that infuse the tempeh before cooking. The air frying method keeps the tempeh tender inside while creating a slightly crisp exterior. The recipe details both cube and strip cuts, with adjustments in cooking time. Adding water at the bottom of the air fryer basket prevents drying and helps even cooking. This method offers a flavorful plant-based protein suitable for salads, bowls, or snacks with its concentrated marinade and caramelized texture.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces tempeh 1 package
- 1 ½ tablespoons tamari for GF or soy sauce
- 1 ½ tablespoon maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons avocado oil For oil-free, omit or sub 1 tablespoon tahini, or grapeseed oil, cooking oil
- 2 teaspoons sriracha
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon liquid smoke
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- scant ½ teaspoon salt fine sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- To make the marinade, in a large bowl or dish, whisk together all ingredients except the tempeh. Cut the tempeh into either 24 or 36 squares. I prefer smaller pieces because it creates more surface area for the flavorful marinade. The cubes will be approx. ½- to ¾-inch. Alternatively, slice the block of tempeh into thin strips.
- Toss the tempeh in the marinade making sure all pieces are well coated. Set a timer for 30 minutes. Once or twice during that time spoon the marinade from the bottom of the bowl over the tempeh.
- Once the tempeh is marinated, add ¾ to 1 cup water to the bottom of the air fryer basket then insert the rack. Preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees F. Once preheated, arrange the tempeh in a single layer (refer to photos in post above if needed). It should be sitting above the water line.
- Cook for about 10 minutes (or 8 minutes for strips), checking on it at the halfway point and during the last 2-3 minutes to make sure it isn't burning. The tempeh is done when piping hot and caramelized around the edges. Serve hot.
Notes
- Cutting tempeh into smaller cubes increases flavor absorption compared to larger pieces.
- Use the air fryer preheated to 350°F and check midway to avoid burning.
- Adding water to the bottom of the air fryer basket helps prevent drying and aids even cooking.
- If using strips instead of cubes, reduce air frying time to 8 to 10 minutes and oven time to about 15 minutes at 425°F.
- Leftover tempeh keeps up to 5 days refrigerated and reheats well in the air fryer.
- Oven baking is an option for 18 to 23 minutes to achieve caramelization when an air fryer is not available.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition Facts
Serving: 2 servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 275
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 275kcal | 14% |
| Carbohydrates | 18g | 6% |
| Protein | 23g | 46% |
| Fat | 15g | 23% |
| Cholesterol | 0mg | 0% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.