Discover the ultimate guide to cooking tempeh with this easy, flavorful recipe! Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking to add a plant-based protein to your meals, this recipe ensures your tempeh is tender, delicious, and packed with bold flavors. Learn how to prepare tempeh using baking or sautéing methods, with tips on marinating, steaming, and achieving the perfect texture. Ideal for grain bowls, salads, wraps, or as a standalone dish, this recipe is a game-changer for tempeh enthusiasts and beginners alike.

Ingredients
- 8 ounces tempeh (cut into even-sized cubes)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Steam the Tempeh:
Place the tempeh cubes in a steamer basket and steam over boiling water for 10 minutes. This step helps remove bitterness and allows the tempeh to better absorb the marinade.
2. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, olive oil, and black pepper. Add the steamed tempeh to the marinade, toss to coat evenly, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
For Baked Tempeh:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange the marinated tempeh cubes on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tempeh is golden and slightly crispy. Toss with any remaining marinade before serving.
For Sautéed Tempeh:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the tempeh cubes to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes per side, until crispy and golden.
- Toss with any remaining marinade and serve immediately.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy and Versatile: Two simple cooking methods ensure you can prepare tempeh to your liking.
- Rich in Flavor: The sweet-savory marinade infuses every bite for a delicious plant-based protein option.
- Nutritious and Satisfying: Tempeh is packed with protein, probiotics, and essential nutrients, making it a healthy choice.
- Customizable: Perfect as a standalone dish or an addition to salads, grain bowls, wraps, or stir-fries.

Tips
- Cut Evenly: Ensure tempeh cubes are the same size for uniform cooking.
- Steaming Is Key: Don’t skip steaming, as it improves the flavor and texture of the tempeh.
- Marinate Longer: The longer the tempeh marinates, the more flavorful it will be—overnight is ideal.
- Line the Baking Sheet: Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Variations and Substitutions
- Soy-Free Option: Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos for a gluten-free and soy-free alternative.
- Different Sweeteners: Use honey or agave syrup instead of maple syrup.
- Extra Spice: Add chili flakes or sriracha to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Different Cooking Methods: Try grilling the marinated tempeh for a smoky flavor.
FAQs
Do I have to steam tempeh before cooking?
Steaming is recommended to remove any bitterness and help the tempeh absorb the marinade, but it’s not mandatory.
Can I use other types of tempeh?
Yes, flavored or multi-grain tempeh works just as well, though you may need to adjust the marinade flavors.
How do I store leftovers?
Store cooked tempeh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to restore crispiness.
Can I freeze marinated tempeh?
Yes! Freeze tempeh in the marinade in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw and cook as directed.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over rice, quinoa, or noodles for a hearty meal.
- Add to wraps, sandwiches, or tacos with fresh veggies.
- Toss into salads or grain bowls for a protein boost.
- Pair with roasted vegetables or stir-fried greens for a complete meal.
Suggestions
- Meal Prep Hero: Double the recipe and store portions for quick meals throughout the week.
- Party Favorite: Serve as an appetizer with dipping sauces like peanut or tahini sauce.
- Kids’ Option: Cut tempeh into smaller pieces and toss in a sweet BBQ sauce for a kid-friendly twist.
How to Cook Tempeh
4
servings5
minutes20
minutesIngredients
8 ounces tempeh (cut into even-sized cubes)
1/4 cup soy sauce
3 tablespoons maple syrup
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions
- Steam the Tempeh:
- Place the tempeh cubes in a steamer basket and steam over boiling water for 10 minutes. This step helps remove bitterness and allows the tempeh to better absorb the marinade.
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, olive oil, and black pepper. Add the steamed tempeh to the marinade, toss to coat evenly, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
- For Baked Tempeh:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Arrange the marinated tempeh cubes on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tempeh is golden and slightly crispy. Toss with any remaining marinade before serving.
- For Sautéed Tempeh:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the tempeh cubes to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes per side, until crispy and golden.
- Toss with any remaining marinade and serve immediately.

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