Air Fryer Tempeh
Ready in about 33 minutes.
Published by the RecipeAirFryer editorial team · How we source times · Updated
Times and temperatures come from our reviewed cooking database. Explanatory text on each page is generated from that entry so the numbers stay consistent.
Marinated tempeh strips turned crisp and caramelised in the air fryer, with a nutty depth you only get from the whole soybean cake. A steaming and marinating trick tames any bitterness and lets the savoury glaze soak right in.
Written for 3. Cook in batches rather than stacking if you scale up.
Ingredients
- 1 block (225g) tempeh, sliced
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Pinch of black pepper
Method
- 1Steam the sliced tempeh for 8 minutes to mellow its flavour, then pat dry.
- 2Whisk the remaining ingredients and marinate the tempeh for 15 minutes.
- 3Preheat the air fryer to 190°C (375°F).
- 4Air fry for 12-15 minutes, tossing halfway, until crisp and glazed.
- 5Brush with leftover marinade in the last two minutes.
- 6Serve in bowls, wraps or salads.
Tips for the best results
- Steaming first removes bitterness and helps the marinade absorb.
- Slice thinly for maximum crisp edges.
- Double the marinade to use as a drizzle at the table.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Crowding the basket so air fryer tempeh steams instead of browning.
- Skipping the toss halfway, which leaves one side pale.
Frequently Asked Questions
What temperature and time for air fryer tempeh?
A typical starting point is 190°C / 375°F for 12-15 min, toss halfway. Thickness and wattage change the finish, so check early.
Can I make air fryer tempeh ahead?
Cook it, cool it quickly, and refrigerate. Reheat in the air fryer at a slightly lower temperature so the outside does not dry before the middle is hot.
How many people does air fryer tempeh serve?
This recipe is written for 3. For a fuller basket, cook in batches rather than stacking, or add a couple of minutes and shake more often.
Do I have to steam it?
It is optional, but steaming noticeably softens tempeh's bitterness and improves texture.