This air fryer tempeh is crispy, filling, and easy to make. It’s naturally gluten-free and vegan, with a light garlic flavor that works well in bowls, salads, or simple sides.
A Note From Kristen
After getting totally hooked on how crispy tofu turns out in the air fryer, I knew I had to give tempeh the same treatment. I’m so glad I did. This version comes out smoky, savory, and lightly garlicky, with a firm, chewy crispness that makes tempeh a satisfying plant-based swap for meat. It’s hearty enough to snack on straight from the basket, and it also works beautifully in bowls, wraps, and easy weeknight meals. It’s packed with protein, iron, and calcium, simple to make, and naturally gluten-free, vegan, dairy-free, and nut-free. Happy eating!
~Kristen
5-Stars From Our Readers
“Definitely 5 stars! Tempeh can be a tricky food to get right, but this recipe does the trick every time. Thank you!”
— Matthew Green
What is Tempeh?
Like tofu, tempeh (pronounced “tempei”) is made from soybeans. But unlike tofu which is made from soy milk, tempeh is made from soybeans that have been fermented into compact cakes. Tempeh makes a great meat substitute in vegan and plant-based dishes and has a nice hearty and firm texture. It is naturally gluten-free, but make sure to check labels, as some brands make specialty tempeh products by incorporating other ingredients such as wheat. It has a slightly nutty taste.
Ingredient Notes
Please keep in mind that this is just a quick overview. Visit the full recipe for amounts and instructions!
How to Air Fry Tempeh
- Heat the air fryer to 390°F. Cut the tempeh into 1/2- to 1-inch cubes and add them to a bowl.
- Pour in the remaining ingredients, stir to coat, and let the tempeh rest for about 10 minutes.
- Spread the cubes in a single layer in the air fryer basket or on the tray.
- Cook until crisp, then serve. Enjoy!
Serving Ideas
- Enjoy as a simple snack as is, or with a favorite dipping sauce.
- Top off soups and stews.
- Stir into curries for some protein power.
- Toss into noodle and grain bowls.
- Use as a filling for wraps.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I store and reheat air fried tempeh?
This tempeh tastes best straight out of the air fryer but will keep crisp for about 24 hours at room temperature. Any longer and I recommend storing in an air tight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheating in an air fryer or oven at 400F or until crisp and warmed throughout.
Can I change the seasonings in this recipe?
Yes! The seasonings used in this recipe are just what tasted best out of a few different combos that I tested, but you can omit or change any of the spices listed and use what you most prefer instead! The tempeh will still get crispy with or without them thanks to an air fryer!
More Air Fryer Recipes You Might Enjoy
Air Fryer Tempeh Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 8-ounce package tempeh sliced into 1/2"-1" cubes
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil or neutral oil of choice
- 1 tablespoon coconut aminos or soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt or pink salt or salt to suit personal preference
Method
- Preheat air fryer to 390°F.
- Prepare tempeh by slicing into ½-1" cubes. Place tempeh cubes into a large mixing bowl.
- To the same bowl add avocado oil, coconut aminos, sesame oil, garlic powder and salt. Toss to coat. Let sit and marinate for 10 minutes.
- When marination has finished, place the tempeh in a single layer in your air fryer basket or tray. Air fry for 15 minutes or until tempeh is firm, crispy and golden.
- Enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
Nutritional information is automatically calculated using a third-party calculator and is an estimate only.
First time making tempeh in the air fryer, this is delicious in a wrap. Thank you!
I’m so happy to hear it! Thanks for sharing! 🙂
Can’t stop eating them!
This is the best kind of comment! I’m so happy you like this recipe. Thank you for sharing! 🙂
Actually for a quarter of a package, there are 5 g of protein. Other than that, your recipe was fabulous. Thanks!
I’m so glad to hear it! Thanks so much for taking the time to share.
Do you think I can mix the sauce and the tempeh and carry to the office in a zippy bag or something? Then refrigerate there and cook it there? I bought the cutest little air fryer because I need quick meals. Suggestions? Thanks!
Hi, Suzy! Yes, most definitely! In fact, it will probably be even tastier, marinating for bit. I hope this helps and I hope you enjoy the recipe!
awesome recipe, love it on my salads
So happy to hear it! Thanks so much for taking the time to share here! 🙂
First time cooking with tempeh. I made the accident of trying it fresh out of the packaging, do not recommend. It has a funky fermented taste. This recipe was delicious. I mixed the air fried tempeh with veggie and siracha.
Yes, haha! Thanks so much for sharing! I’m so happy you enjoyed the recipe. 🙂
I loved the recipe, but it came out dry tasting, and I felt it needed some kind of dipping sauce. Can you suggest anything?
If you like spice, this is great: https://moonandspoonandyum.com/sriracha-aioli/, otherwise, this is my go-to for nearly anything: https://moonandspoonandyum.com/spicy-turmeric-tahini-sauce-vegan-gluten-free/. The air fried tempeh is also delicious incorporated in noodles, stir-fries, rice bowls, etc. Sometimes I air fry it and then add it to the last few minutes of cook time in a curry as well. I hope this helps!
This recipe converted me to a tempeh person! The air fryer makes it extra crispy and so delicious.
I have a hard time getting my family to eat tempeh, but everyone LOVED this dish. And I really love how easy it is!!
This was spectacular! I was so pleased at how well it crisped up. I added a little ginger to the marinade, as well. The crispy tempeh was scrumptious added into a Mandarin Orange Salad. Thanks for the recipe!