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Air Fryer Tempeh Recipe

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3.9 from 294 reviews

This Air Fryer Tempeh recipe offers a quick and flavorful way to enjoy a protein-packed vegan dish. Marinated in a mix of soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and smoked paprika, the tempeh is steamed to soften and then air fried to achieve a caramelized, slightly charred exterior. Perfect as a snack, salad topping, or main dish addition, this easy recipe combines sweet, savory, and smoky notes with a satisfying texture.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Tempeh

  • 14 ounces tempeh

Marinade

  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Prepare the tempeh: Slice the tempeh into 1/2 inch thick strips to ensure even cooking and better absorption of the marinade. Steam the slices in the microwave for 3 minutes or alternatively, steam them in a steamer basket over boiling water for 8 minutes until they are softened but still firm.
  2. Make the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and smoked paprika until well combined to create a flavorful marinade that will infuse the tempeh.
  3. Preheat air fryer and marinate tempeh: Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Pat the steamed tempeh strips dry while still warm to help the marinade stick. Toss the tempeh strips in the marinade, coating them evenly, and let them sit for 1 to 2 minutes to absorb the flavors.
  4. Air fry the tempeh: Arrange the marinated tempeh strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overlapping for even cooking. Air fry for 8 minutes. Then, flip each strip, brush with the reserved excess marinade, and continue cooking for an additional 4 minutes or until the tempeh becomes caramelized and has a slightly charred appearance.
  5. Serve: Carefully remove the tempeh from the air fryer basket and serve immediately while hot. This tempeh is delicious on its own, tossed into salads, or served with rice and vegetables.

Notes

  • Steaming the tempeh before marinating helps to soften it and allows the flavors to penetrate better.
  • Patting the tempeh dry after steaming ensures the marinade adheres well to the surface, enhancing caramelization.
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed for even air circulation and crispy results.
  • You can adjust the level of smokiness by increasing or decreasing the smoked paprika according to taste.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: Vegan, Asian-inspired
  • Diet: Vegan

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