Go Back
+ servings
Close up of air fried tempeh strips.

Air Fryer Tempeh Bacon

This sweet, smoky and savory Air Fryer Tempeh Bacon is made simply by using an air fryer and adds a flavorful, high-protein addition to salads, sandwiches or a plant-based breakfast taco.
5 from 6 votes
Print Pin
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Marinate: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4 Servings
Author: Liv King

Equipment

Ingredients
 

  • 1 8 ounce Package of Tempeh cut into thin strips
  • 3 tablespoons Low-Sodium Tamari or soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Maple Syrup
  • 1 tablespoon Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • ½ teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 2 teaspoons Nutritional Yeast
  • Pinch of Cayenne Pepper optional
  • Pinch of Kosher Salt
  • Pinch of Black Pepper
  • Spray Avocado Oil for cooking

Instructions

  • Cut the block of tempeh into ¼ inch slices.
  • Whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, liquid smoke, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, nutritional yeast, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper in a shallow bowl.
  • Place the tempeh into the marinade and toss carefully to coat. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  • Add the marinated tempeh to the air fryer basket and lightly spray with the avocado oil (or other neutral oil). You will probably need to do this in multiple batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer.
  • Air Fry at 375F for 7 to 9 minutes or until crispy, and golden. No need to preheat but the second batch of tempeh bacon will cook quicker since the air fryer is hot- so cut the time by about 2-3 minutes.
  • Note: Keep in mind that all air fryers are different so be sure to check the tempeh bacon often to make sure it's not burning. It can go from perfect to burnt in seconds!
  • Brush a small amount of leftover marinade on top of tempeh and enjoy!

Notes

Important Note about Salt: Not all salts are made equal and cannot be substituted 1:1. If you are substituting table salt for kosher salt, you will need to cut the amount called for in the recipe by at least half. 
 
Air fryers can vary. When attempting a new air fryer recipe, I recommend monitoring it closely. Check on the tempeh at the halfway point and during the final 2 to 3 minutes of cooking.
Did you make this recipe?Please leave a comment on the blog or share a photo on Instagram!