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Air Fryer Tempeh Recipe

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This Air Fryer Tempeh is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with savory, smoky flavor. It’s an easy, protein-rich recipe that’s perfect for salads, grain bowls, wraps, sandwiches, or as a satisfying snack.

Ingredients

  • 8 ounces tempeh
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional, depending on the soy sauce)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cut the tempeh into cubes, strips, or triangles.
  2. Steam the tempeh for about 10 minutes to reduce bitterness, then let it cool slightly.
  3. Whisk together the soy sauce, olive oil, maple syrup, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, black pepper, and sesame oil if using.
  4. Toss the tempeh in the marinade and let it marinate for 15–30 minutes.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  6. Arrange the marinated tempeh in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  7. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the tempeh is golden brown and crispy around the edges.
  8. Serve immediately while warm and crispy.

Notes

  • Steaming the tempeh helps reduce bitterness and improves flavor absorption.
  • Replace maple syrup with honey if a vegan recipe is not required.
  • Add sriracha, cayenne pepper, grated ginger, rice vinegar, Cajun seasoning, curry powder, or Italian herbs to customize the flavor.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) air fryer for 3–5 minutes to restore crispness.
  • Freeze cooked tempeh for up to 2 months and reheat directly from frozen with a few extra minutes in the air fryer.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/air-fryer-tempeh-recipe/