This Air Fryer Tempeh is way too delicious to be so quick and easy! Marinated in a smoky maple-soy glaze, then air fried for 10 minutes, you'll love this sticky and flavorful cubed tempeh on salads, grains, and as a protein-rich snack. Plus, there's a simple trick in this recipe that makes the tempeh taste even better!
Air fryer tempeh is vegan, easily made gluten-free and without oil. Oven instructions are also included in case you don't have an air fryer.
Why You'll Love Air Fryer Tempeh
I know this is a bold statement considering how many different ways there are to prepare tempeh, but I think air fryer tempeh is now my favorite!
I know you'll love it, too, because it's:
- seriously low-effort
- the perfect blend of savory flavors plus great texture
- made with pantry-friendly ingredients
- satisfying thanks to fiber and plant-based protein
- and versatile! Enjoy air fryer tempeh on salads, in wraps and grain bowls, and as an appetizer or snack.
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Ingredient Notes
- Tempeh - Any brand of tempeh you like is fine. Just make sure to choose a variety made with 100% soybeans if you need gluten-free since some varieties have grains added. Honestly, I think the pure soybean tempeh tastes best!
- Tamari - If you don't need gluten-free, soy sauce or shoyu may be used instead. Or go with liquid aminos.
- Maple syrup - A touch of sweetness is important for the overall flavor of the marinade. You want pure maple syrup, not imitation.
- Sriracha - Gives the marinade a thicker, glaze-like consistency and adds delicious tang. We're not adding enough sriracha to make the tempeh spicy, but you can always add more later if you want it hot!
- Liquid smoke - I use Colgin's brand in hickory or mesquite. These can be found in almost any grocery store.
- Oil - Choose a neutral cooking oil like avocado or grapeseed. If you avoid oil simply omit it. The tempeh will lose some of the richness and look a bit dry on the outside, but will still taste great.
- Vinegar - A little bit of apple cider vinegar rounds out the sweet-and-tangy Asian BBQ vibes
See the recipe card below for quantities and full recipe.
How to Air Fry Tempeh
- First, whisk together the marinade in a large bowl or other dish.
- Cut the block of tempeh into either 24 or 36 pieces, about ½- to ¾ inch thick. I prefer the smaller pieces because that means there's more surface area for the marinade. Or if you'd rather thinly slice the tempeh, that works, too. And cook time is even quicker!
- Toss the tempeh in the marinade and set aside for 30 minutes. I like to pass through the kitchen once or twice during that time to spoon the extra marinade from the bottom of the bowl over top just to make sure all the pieces are well coated. If you're working with thinly sliced tempeh, just be gentle as you stir so they don't fall apart.
- Now, the trick! Pour approximately 1 cup of water in the bottom of the air fryer basket, making sure it's not up to the level of the grate. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F. Once preheated, arrange the tempeh in a singler layer. Cook for about 10 minutes (or 7-8 minutes for strips), checking on it at the halfway point and during the last couple of minutes. See the Tips section below.
Do I have to add water to the bottom of the air fryer?
Have you ever heard that you should steam tempeh because it reduces tempeh's natural bitterness? Well, adding water to the air fryer basket has the same effect here. But as a bonus, it's not an extra step!
To answer the question, you don't have to add water, but during recipe testing we found that it really does make it more delicious.
With this simple trick it's like we're steaming and air frying the tempeh at the same time. The steam also keeps the marinade nice and sticky and makes the tempeh moist, yet firm and meaty.
Even with the steam, the edges still brown and caramelize.
Oven Option
If you don't have an air fryer that's no problem! I also tested this recipe in the oven. Here's how to do it:
- Marinate the tempeh as described, and preheat the oven to 425°F (215°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Bake the tempeh for 18 to 23 minutes (about 15 min. for strips), or until it's as chewy and caramelized as you like.
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Serving Suggestions
Air Fryer Tempeh is a delicious addition to so many meals. Add it to wraps, salads, noodles, and grain bowls. Slice it for sandwiches or make a vegan banh mi.
It's also a flavorful vegan appetizer to serve at a dinner party. Start the air fryer when your guests arrive, then serve these tasty morsels alongside your favorite vegan cheeses, dairy-free dips, and crackers.
For dessert, give the air fryer basket a quick rinse and prepare these juicy air fryer peaches!
Variations
- Gluten-free - I suppose this isn't really a variation because the recipe is gluten-free as written, but just to point out the two main things to watch out for: use gluten-free tamari, and select a tempeh made from soybeans only (some varieties include grains).
- Oil-Free - If you strictly avoid oil in your diet you'll be happy to know you can simply omit it. The result isn't quite as flavorful and the tempeh will look a bit dry, but thanks to the water in the bottom of the air fryer, it doesn't actually dry out. The end result is still delicious!
- Spicy - we love this tempeh with a few dashes of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes added to the marinade. For extra spicy, serve the air fryer tempeh with additional sriracha, gochujang, or other hot sauce.
- Korean BBQ - for a slight twist, toss the tempeh with this Korean BBQ sauce instead of the included sauce recipe.
After you try this air fryer tempeh, be sure to check out these air fryer tofu nuggets. They're about as easy as it gets!
Equipment & Batch Size
I use this 6-Quart Instant Vortex Air Fryer, but any comparable air fryer works for this recipe.
If you plan to cook two packages of tempeh (doubling the recipe), a 6 quart machine should be large enough. Otherwise you'll want to work in batches.
You'll also need a large bowl or container for marinating the tempeh.
How to Store and Reheat
Store leftover tempeh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The texture is best when it's fresh from the air fryer. Reheat tempeh in the air fryer or in a skillet on the stovetop.
I haven't tried freezing this tempeh yet because we always gobble it up! But in general tempeh is freezer friendly.
Helpful Tips
Type of Air Fryer: If you're using a toaster-oven style air fryer instead of a basket or drawer-style, add the water to a shallow, oven-safe dish and place on the bottom rack.
Cook time: Air fryers vary. So the first time you try any air fryer recipe it's a good idea to keep a close eye on things. Check on the tempeh at the halfway mark and during the final 2-3 minutes.
You may need to adjust the temperature and/or cook time for your particular air fryer. When the tempeh is sizzling hot and has yummy browned bits on the edges you'll know it's done.
It also helps to sneak a test bite. 🙂
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Recipe Video
I hope you enjoy this sticky, sweet, and delicious air fryer tempeh as much as we do! If you try the recipe be sure to leave a comment below to let us know.
Recipe
Air Fryer Tempeh Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 8 ounces tempeh (1 package)
- 1 ½ tablespoons tamari (for GF) or soy sauce
- 1 ½ tablespoon maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons cooking oil such as avocado or grapeseed - For oil-free, omit or sub 1 tablespoon tahini.
- 2 teaspoons sriracha
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon liquid smoke
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- scant ½ teaspoon 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
Estimated Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition information is an estimate and will vary depending on the exact amounts and specific products and ingredients used.
Kevin says
This is my new favorite way to do tempeh! Thank you for enlightening me! We use the air fryer A LOT and I have wanted an easy tempeh recipe. This one checks all the boxes. Thanks again for a great recipe.
Tiff says
This is the best technique for tempeh!The steaming softens the tempeh and removes its bitter after-taste, leaving you with tender delicious totally more ish bites. I doubled the smoked paprika cos I didn't have the liquid smoke and it's just awesome.
Deba says
I followed your advise about the smoked paprika/liquid smoke and it worked out lovely. Thanks
Kathy says
This is the first time I tried tempeh. I specifically wanted an air fryer recipe, and am so glad I found yours! I opted for the smaller pieces, and skipped the oil since I try to be oil-free, but otherwise followed your recipe exactly. I was surprised how quickly and easily this came together. I ended up cutting some of the finished cubes in half and tossing them into my salad and really enjoyed the flavor and texture dimension it adds. Thanks for develping and sharing this recipe!
Kay says
This is my go to tempeh recipe, it is so delicious!
Jen says
This was the best air fryer tempeh recipe that I've had. I think adding the water to the air fryer was genius. Kept the tempeh from getting all dried out. Thanks for all of your delicious recipes.
Liz says
I already commented and have made this many times since. I wanted to be sure to give it five stars. I usually cut the tempeh into 32 strips and use it like bacon in various ways. Also use this recipe regularly for air fried tofu cubes! Both the tempeh and tofu turn out great!
Alyson says
This was my first recipe in my new air fryer and I was very pleased. The marinade made the tempeh tasty. Will make it again. Thank you 🙂
Liz says
Lori, I really like the marinade in this recipe. I've used it several times for tempeh and tofu. Both turned out great! I've tried it without the oil and also with the suggested substitution of tahini. I haven't had liquid smoke on hand, so increased the smoked paprika. It's great as is and also with an increased amount of sriracha and garlic powder! BTW, it also works well with the tempeh cut into bacon style strips. Thank you for this great go-to recipe!
Lauren says
Fantastic recipe! We love it! Thank you so much for sharing 🙂
Rachel says
The tempeh turned out awesome! I was skeptical of the added water, but followed the directions - I think it did help to keep it moist while also crispy. Thanks for an easy and delicious way to prepare tempeh in the air fryer 🙂
LouAnn says
Was your air fryer difficult to clean after making this??
Lori says
Hi LouAnn,
No, I wouldn't say it was difficult at all. The non-stick surface goes a long way to help with that, and it's not like you're dumping a lot of sauce on the surface. All air fryers are built differently, though, so that could play into it. Hope that helps!
Sherri Hall says
My husband and I tried this last night and loved it! However, I forgot to get the liquid smoke, so I doubled the smoked paprika and it was amazing! We served it with roasted potatoes and I put the few pieces we had leftover on my salad for lunch today with some balsamic. Not only was it delicious, but very easy to make and loved saving the steaming step by adding the water to the air fryer. 🙂
Lori says
Great! I'm so glad you enjoyed the tempeh, Sherri. Thank you for taking a moment to let us know!