Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a tasty way to enjoy tempeh, this Baked Tempeh with Maple Marinade is a perfect choice. The maple syrup gives the tempeh a naturally sweet and caramelized crust, while the marinade adds depth of flavor. It’s an ideal recipe for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone who enjoys plant-based meals. Not only is it packed with protein and fiber, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it as a main dish, add it to salads, or use it in sandwiches and wraps.
Ingredients
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1 block tempeh (8 oz), sliced into 1/4-inch thick strips
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1/4 cup maple syrup
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2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
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Salt and pepper to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Slice the tempeh into thin strips (about 1/4-inch thick). If you want to make it even crispier, you can steam the tempeh for 10 minutes before marinating, which helps soften its texture and allows it to absorb more flavor.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, soy sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Place the tempeh slices in a shallow dish or resealable bag, and pour the marinade over the tempeh. Make sure the tempeh is fully coated, and allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) in the refrigerator.
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After marinating, arrange the tempeh slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
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Bake the tempeh in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tempeh is golden brown and crispy.
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Remove from the oven and serve immediately. Enjoy as a main dish or add it to salads, grain bowls, or sandwiches.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 2-3
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Total time: 50 minutes
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Prep time: 10 minutes
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Marinating time: 30 minutes (optional up to 2 hours)
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Cook time: 25-30 minutes
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Variations
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Spicy Maple Tempeh: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
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Citrus Twist: For a fresh variation, substitute the apple cider vinegar with lime or lemon juice for a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the maple syrup.
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Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can be added to the marinade for extra flavor.
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Tempeh Stir Fry: After baking, cut the tempeh into bite-sized cubes and toss them into a vegetable stir fry for a heartier meal.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store any leftover tempeh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Reheat the tempeh in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or in a skillet over medium heat, until warmed through and slightly crispy again.
FAQs
Can I use tofu instead of tempeh in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute tofu for tempeh, though the texture will be different. Tofu will be softer, while tempeh has a firmer texture and a nutty flavor.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use tamari instead of soy sauce. Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and will give the same delicious flavor.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the tempeh in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 hours. It can also be baked ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
Yes, this Baked Tempeh with Maple Marinade is entirely vegan as it does not contain any animal products.
Can I freeze the baked tempeh?
Yes, you can freeze the baked tempeh. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. To reheat, bake it directly from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I use other sweeteners instead of maple syrup?
Yes, you can substitute maple syrup with agave nectar, honey (if not vegan), or a sugar-free sweetener like stevia, though the flavor will be slightly different.
How do I steam the tempeh before marinating?
To steam tempeh, place it in a steaming basket over a pot of boiling water for about 10 minutes. This helps soften the tempeh and allows it to absorb more marinade flavor.
How can I make the tempeh crispy?
To make the tempeh crispier, bake it for a little longer or use a higher heat setting. You can also broil it for the last 2-3 minutes of baking for an extra crisp.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, roasted vegetables such as sweet potatoes, bell peppers, and Brussels sprouts can be added to the baking sheet with the tempeh for a one-pan meal.
What can I serve with this tempeh?
This tempeh pairs well with roasted vegetables, quinoa, rice, or in a salad with greens, avocado, and a tahini dressing for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Baked Tempeh with Maple Marinade is a delicious, plant-based dish that’s perfect for any meal. The combination of sweet maple syrup, savory soy sauce, and aromatic spices creates a mouthwatering marinade that makes the tempeh irresistibly tasty. Whether you’re new to tempeh or already a fan, this recipe is a great way to enjoy this nutritious and versatile ingredient. It’s simple, quick, and full of flavor – a perfect addition to your weekly meal rotation!
