![['Close-up view of juicy air-fried tempeh, garnished and glistening.', 'Side view of crispy tempeh cubes in a bowl, showcasing texture and color.', 'Appetizing air-fried tempeh pieces on a plate, drizzled with sauce.', 'Tempeh cooked in an air fryer, presented with a colorful garnish.']](https://proteinrecipelab.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/u6426281249_Prompt_to_retry_close_up_photo_side_view_from_red_27929b8b-2b8b-40ad-b4b6-3c26e400577d_0.webp)
Air Fryer Tempeh Recipe
Enjoy crispy, flavorful tempeh cooked effortlessly in the air fryer with a savory marinade.
Ingredients
Protein
- 8 ounces tempeh (1 package)
- 1.5 tablespoons tamari (for GF) or soy sauce
- 1.5 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons cooking oil such as avocado or grapeseed (or tahini for oil-free)
- 2 teaspoons sriracha
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 0.5 teaspoon liquid smoke
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon fine sea salt (scant)
- 0.25 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Whisk all marinade ingredients except tempeh. Cut tempeh into 24 or 36 small squares or strips. Toss in marinade and marinate for 30 minutes, spooning marinade over occasionally.
- Add water to the air fryer basket, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Arrange marinated tempeh above water line in a single layer.
- Cook for 10 minutes, checking halfway and last 2-3 minutes to prevent burning. Serve hot.
Notes
Ensure tempeh is cut into small pieces for maximum flavor absorption.