Simple Crispy Tempeh (Air-Fryer or Oven)

👩🏼‍🌾 Ingredients & Health Benefits

As a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, my goal is to highlight the health benefits of each ingredient. Below, I've included notes on the ingredients from a nutrition expert's perspective.

• Tempeh is a fermented soy food that provides a hearty, satisfying texture. Chopping it into small pieces helps it crisp up evenly and makes it more versatile.
• Nutritional yeast adds savory, umami flavor and boosts protein and B vitamins. It also helps the tempeh brown and cling to the seasonings, giving each piece more flavor.
• Coconut aminos provide a light salty-sweet seasoning that adheres to the tempeh, eliminating the need for oil. Tamari offers a richer, more traditional soy flavor, while coconut aminos are slightly sweeter and lower in sodium.
• Garlic powder does more than add flavor-it helps create crispier edges as the tempeh cooks, especially in the air fryer or oven.
• Sriracha adds gentle heat and balances the savory flavors without overpowering the tempeh.
• Olive or avocado oil (optional): A light drizzle of oil can enhance browning and mouth-feel, but the recipe still crisps up well without it for an oil-free option.

See the printable recipe card below for quantities.

🍶 Substitutions

This recipe is versatile and easy to adapt. Below are some simple ingredient substitutions.

• Coconut aminos/tamari: Use soy sauce if that's what you have on hand. You may want to reduce the amount slightly since it's often saltier.
• Nutritional yeast: If you don't have nutritional yeast, you can omit it and still get crispy tempeh, though the flavor will be less savory. A pinch of smoked paprika or onion powder can help add depth.
• Sriracha: Swap with chili garlic sauce, sambal oelek, or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want heat. You can also omit it entirely for a mild version.
• Garlic powder: Fresh grated garlic is not recommended here, as it can burn and turn bitter. Garlic powder works best for even crisping and flavor.

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✔️ Storage & Meal Prep Tips

These simple steps help preserve freshness, flavor, and texture:

• This simple crispy tempeh is great for meal prep and can be made ahead of time. Once cooled, store the crumbles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up 4 to 5 days.
• To reheat, warm it in the air fryer or oven at 350°F for a few minutes until heated through and crisp again. A skillet over medium heat also works well. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the texture crisp, as it tends to soften the tempeh.
• You can also enjoy it cold or at room temperature as a topping for salads, grain bowls, or pasta.

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