Air Fryer BBQ Tempeh Bites Recipe

Tempeh: A fermented soybean product that is high in protein and has a firm texture. It absorbs flavors well and becomes crispy when cooked in an air fryer.

BBQ sauce: A tangy and sweet sauce that adds a smoky flavor to the tempeh bites. Choose your favorite brand or make your own.

Olive oil: Used to help coat the tempeh and ensure it crisps up nicely in the air fryer.

Garlic powder: Adds a savory depth of flavor to the BBQ mixture.

Onion powder: Enhances the overall flavor profile with a hint of sweetness and sharpness.

Salt: Used to season the tempeh bites to taste.

Pepper: Adds a touch of heat and enhances the other flavors in the dish.

To enhance the flavor of your tempeh, consider steaming it for 10 minutes before marinating. This helps to remove any bitterness and allows the bbq sauce to penetrate more deeply.

• tempeh - Substitute with tofu: Tofu is another protein-rich, plant-based option that absorbs flavors well and has a similar texture when cooked.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with homemade bbq sauce: Create a homemade version using tomato paste, vinegar, maple syrup, and spices to control ingredients and ensure it's vegan.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a great alternative for cooking.

• garlic powder - Substitute with fresh garlic: Fresh garlic provides a more robust and aromatic flavor compared to garlic powder.

• onion powder - Substitute with finely chopped onions: Fresh onions offer a stronger and more natural flavor profile than onion powder.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a salty flavor along with umami, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

• pepper - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a bit of heat and a different flavor dimension to the dish.

• Allow the tempeh bites to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.

• Transfer the cooled tempeh bites to an airtight container. If you have multiple layers, place a sheet of parchment paper between each layer to avoid sticking.

• Store the container in the refrigerator. The tempeh bites will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days.

• For longer storage, you can freeze the tempeh bites. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.

• Once frozen, transfer the tempeh bites to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date for easy tracking.

• When ready to eat, reheat the tempeh bites in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.

• If you prefer, you can also reheat them in the oven. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes.

• Serve with extra bbq sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover BBQ tempeh bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  3. Heat for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating.
  4. Serve hot with extra BBQ sauce if desired.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Arrange the tempeh bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Cover the bites loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out.
  4. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 2 minutes if you want them to be a bit crispy.
  6. Serve immediately with a side of BBQ sauce.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the tempeh bites on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a damp paper towel to keep them moist.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.
  4. If not heated through, continue in 30-second intervals until hot.
  5. Serve with additional BBQ sauce if desired.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil or water to the skillet.
  3. Place the tempeh bites in the skillet and cover with a lid.
  4. Cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even heating.
  5. Serve hot with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

• Air fryer: This is the main cooking appliance used to cook the tempeh bites to a crispy perfection.

• Knife: Essential for cutting the block of tempeh into bite-sized pieces.

• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting the tempeh.

• Mixing bowl: Used to mix the BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, and to coat the tempeh pieces.

• Measuring cups: Needed to measure out the BBQ sauce accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the olive oil, garlic powder, and onion powder.

• Tongs: Useful for tossing the tempeh pieces in the BBQ mixture and for placing them in the air fryer basket.

• Serving plate: For serving the hot tempeh bites once they are cooked.

• Spatula: Handy for shaking the air fryer basket halfway through the cooking process.

Pre-cut the tempeh: Cut the tempeh into bite-sized pieces as soon as you bring it home. Store in an airtight container for quick access.

Use pre-made sauce: Opt for a store-bought bbq sauce to save time on mixing ingredients.

Batch cook: Double the recipe and cook extra tempeh bites to have leftovers for the week.

Marinate in advance: Toss the tempeh in the bbq mixture the night before and refrigerate. This enhances flavor and saves time.

Line the air fryer: Use parchment paper or a silicone liner in the air fryer basket for easy cleanup.