Air Fryer Tempeh Recipe

This air fryer tempeh recipe is a great meat alternative dish for anyone who wants to cut down on their consumption of animal products. The following recipe will show you how to air fry tempeh so that it tastes great while still being healthy!

Jump to:

• What is tempeh?
• Ingredients
• Step by Step instructions
• FAQs
• Substitutions for this recipe
• Air Fryer Tempeh

What is tempeh?

Tempeh is a traditional Indonesian food that is made from fermented soybeans. The beans are cooked and then combined with a probiotic, such as rice flour or barley, which helps to create the tempeh “cake”.

What does tempeh taste like?

Tempeh has a nutty, earthy flavor that is slightly sweet. It also has a firm texture that makes it a great meat alternative for vegetarians and vegans alike.

Why this recipe works

This air fried tempeh recipe works because it is a simple, easy recipe that cooks the tempeh evenly and quickly while giving it a crispy outside.

Ingredients

• One block of tempeh
• Sesame seed oil
• Rice wine vinegar
• Honey (or agave to make it vegan)
• Soy Sauce
• Garlic cloves
• Fresh ginger
• Salt

Step by Step instructions

1. Begin the recipe by slicing the tempeh into thin, even strips (½ inch thick).
2. Steam the tempeh for 10 minutes using a double boiler method.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
4. Into a mixing bowl place; minced garlic, minced ginger, salt, soy sauce, honey, sesame seed oil and rice wine vinegar. Mix together. 
5. Coat the steamed tempeh in the marinade.
6. Get the marinated tempeh strips and place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket and cook for 10 minutes, flipping halfway at 5 minutes. 
7. Take out of the air fryer basket and serve immediately.

FAQs

What is the protein content of tempeh?

Tempeh is a high-protein food that contains about 31 grams of protein per 1 cup. It’s also a good source of dietary fiber, iron and magnesium. Air fryer tempeh is a healthy and delicious way to get your daily dose of protein!

What to serve with air fryer tempeh?

If you’re just getting started cooking with tempeh, then sweet potatoes and steamed broccoli are great options because they have complementary flavors. Air frying the tempeh gives it a crispier texture that goes well with these vegetables!

Is it hard to cook air fryer tempeh?

No, it’s not hard to cook air fryer tempeh. Air frying tempeh is a simple process that requires only 4 steps: slicing into thin strips or cubes, steaming, air frying until crispy and golden brown.

Should I steam tempeh before air frying?

Yes, you should steam tempeh before air frying. It makes it more softer and will prevent it from being dry or tough.

How do I know my air fryer tempeh is ready?

The tempeh is ready when it is golden brown and crispy on the outside. Try not to overcook your air fryer tempeh, or it will become dry and chewy.

What can I do if my air fryer tempeh isn’t cooking evenly?

If your air fryer tempeh isn’t cooking evenly, then you may need to turn it over halfway through the cook time so that both sides are cooked evenly. Make sure that the slices or cubes of tempeh are in a single layer before you start cooking them or they won’t cook evenly.

How to store leftovers for the air fryer tempeh?

Store any extra air fryer tempeh in an airtight container for 3-4 days.

Is tempeh gluten free?

Yes, tempeh is gluten free!

Does tempeh really taste like meat?

Yes and No! Tempeh does have a firm texture, which some say is similar to that of meat. Air frying the tempeh gives it an even crispier texture that is meat reminiscent and goes well with salads or main courses alike!

Substitutions for this recipe

• You could use tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Sesame oil can also be substituted with other oils such as grapeseed, sunflower or avocado.
• If you don’t have an air fryer, you can also bake the tempeh in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown.
• You could also pan fry the tempeh slices in a tablespoon of oil over medium heat for about 5 minutes per side.
• You can also use tempeh cubes or crumbled tempeh to make this recipe.

There are so many reasons to love air fryer tempeh. This air fryer recipe is crispy, delicious and only uses a handful of ingredients. It goes from fridge to bowl in no time! It’s the perfect midweek meal for those who want to add a little more plant based protein in their diet.