When it comes to adding flavor and excitement to your meals, few ingredients can match the versatility and nutritional benefits of tempeh. This fermented soybean product has a nutty, earthy taste that pairs well with a wide range of herbs, spices, and seasonings. In this article, we’ll explore 20 flavorful tempeh marinade recipes that will take your cooking to the next level.
From sweet and spicy to tangy and savory, our collection of marinades includes something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic teriyaki or a bold BBQ-inspired flavor, these recipes are sure to satisfy. So go ahead, get creative, and discover the amazing world of tempeh marinades!
Sweet and Spicy Maple Sriracha Tempeh
A harmonious blend of sweet and heat, this recipe transforms tempeh into a flavorful and aromatic dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of tempeh, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons of maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon of sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
– 1/4 cup of water
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together maple syrup, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger.
2. Add the crumbled tempeh to the marinade and toss to coat.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
5. Remove the tempeh from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Cook the tempeh for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Herb Lemon Tempeh Marinade
Elevate your meal with a flavorful tempeh marinade that combines the brightness of lemon, the pungency of garlic, and the freshness of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 block tempeh (8 oz)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
3. Place the tempeh in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it.
4. Cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Remove the tempeh from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
7. Cook the tempeh in a baking dish for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy and golden.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoky BBQ Tempeh with Molasses
Elevate your plant-based game with this sweet and smoky tempeh recipe, perfect for a BBQ-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of tempeh
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together olive oil, molasses, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the tempeh block in the marinade and coat evenly.
4. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
5. Remove the tempeh from the marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Teriyaki Ginger Glazed Tempeh
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of tempeh with the sweetness of teriyaki sauce, the spiciness of ginger, and a hint of soy sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup tempeh
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, and grated ginger.
3. Cut tempeh into bite-sized pieces and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the teriyaki glaze evenly over the tempeh.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tempeh is golden brown and caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and brush with vegetable oil to enhance flavor.
7. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tangy Mustard Dill Tempeh
Elevate your vegan game with this flavorful and tangy tempeh recipe, perfect for adding a protein-packed punch to salads, sandwiches, or wraps.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of tempeh
– 2 tablespoons of whole-grain mustard
– 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Crumble the tempeh into a shallow dish or baking sheet.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the mustard, vinegar, and olive oil.
4. Pour the marinade over the tempeh, making sure it’s evenly coated.
5. Sprinkle the chopped dill on top of the tempeh.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tempeh is crispy on the outside and tender within.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peanut Butter Coconut Curry Tempeh
This recipe combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the warm, comforting flavors of coconut curry to create a unique and delicious twist on traditional tempeh. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch, this dish is sure to become a favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of tempeh
– 2 tablespoons of peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon of coconut oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can of full-fat coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tempeh into cubes and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, coconut oil, garlic, curry powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using).
4. Pour the peanut butter mixture over the tempeh and toss to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tempeh is golden brown and crispy.
6. Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Rosemary Tempeh
Elevate your plant-based meals with this flavorful and aromatic tempeh dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a vegetarian option for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of tempeh
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the tempeh into small pieces and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, chopped rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the marinade over the tempeh, tossing to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tempeh is golden brown and crispy on the outside.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with additional rosemary if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Orange Sesame Tempeh Marinade
Elevate your vegan cooking with this vibrant and flavorful orange sesame tempeh marinade, perfect for grilled or pan-seared tempeh. This zesty blend combines the brightness of oranges with the nutty depth of sesame oil.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger until well combined.
2. Taste and adjust the marinade as needed by adding honey or maple syrup for sweetness or more salt for savory flavor.
3. Place tempeh in a shallow dish or zip-top plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the tempeh, making sure it’s fully coated.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to overnight (up to 8 hours).
5. Preheat grill or pan to medium-high heat. Remove tempeh from marinade and cook according to your preference.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes per side, depending on desired level of doneness.
Spicy Miso Tahini Tempeh
This recipe combines the creamy richness of tahini with the spicy kick of miso, all wrapped up in a savory tempeh package. Perfect as a sandwich filling or served on its own, this flavorful dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of tempeh
– 2 tbsp tahini
– 1 tsp white miso paste
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp maple syrup
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the tempeh into small pieces and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. In a bowl, whisk together tahini, miso paste, water, soy sauce, maple syrup, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour the mixture over the tempeh and toss to coat.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions (if desired).
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cilantro Lime Chili Tempeh
This recipe combines the tanginess of lime juice with the pungency of cilantro, creating a unique and delicious flavor profile that pairs perfectly with the nutty taste of tempeh. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a lunchtime meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of tempeh
– 1/2 cup of canned black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons of lime juice
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, black beans, and tempeh. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in the cilantro and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Pineapple Turmeric Tempeh
Add a tropical twist to your plant-based meals with this unique tempeh recipe, featuring the warm spices of turmeric and the sweetness of pineapple.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup tempeh, crumbled
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, maple syrup, turmeric, and black pepper.
2. Add the crumbled tempeh to the marinade and toss to coat.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Place the marinated tempeh on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ginger Soy Garlic Tempeh
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of tempeh with the boldness of ginger, soy sauce, and garlic, creating a dish that’s both savory and spicy. Perfect as a main course or as a flavorful addition to your favorite stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of tempeh
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
3. Place the tempeh on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the soy-ginger mixture evenly over both sides of the tempeh.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tempeh is crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Paprika Maple Tempeh
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of tempeh with the rich, sweet notes of maple syrup and a hint of smoky spice. The result is a unique and delicious vegetarian option perfect for snacking or adding to salads.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of tempeh
– 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tempeh into small cubes.
3. In a shallow dish, whisk together maple syrup and smoked paprika until well combined.
4. Add the olive oil, salt, and tempeh cubes to the dish. Toss until the tempeh is evenly coated with the marinade.
5. Spread the tempeh on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tempeh is crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemongrass Coconut Milk Tempeh
A flavorful and creamy tempeh dish infused with the warmth of lemongrass, perfect for a quick and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of tempeh (6 oz)
– 2 stalks of fresh lemongrass
– 1/4 cup of coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the tempeh and cut it into small pieces.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine lemongrass stalks, coconut milk, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the tempeh and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in the lemongrass-coconut milk mixture and stir to combine. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Five-Spice Hoisin Tempeh
This recipe takes the nutty, earthy flavor of tempeh and elevates it with a sweet and spicy five-spice blend, perfect for adding to salads, wraps, or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of tempeh
– 2 tablespoons of hoisin sauce
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– 1/2 teaspoon of five-spice powder
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tempeh into small pieces and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, five-spice powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Brush the tempeh pieces with the glaze, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chipotle Lime Agave Tempeh
This flavorful tempeh recipe combines the bold heat of chipotles with the brightness of lime and the sweetness of agave. Perfect for a quick and easy vegan dinner or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 block tempeh, crumbled
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
– 1 tablespoon agave nectar
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together chipotle peppers, lime juice, and agave nectar.
3. Add crumbled tempeh and toss to coat.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Spread tempeh mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tempeh is crispy and golden brown.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Red Wine Thyme Tempeh Marinade
Elevate your vegetarian dishes with this rich and savory marinade, perfect for tempeh. This bold blend of red wine, thyme, and spices will add depth and complexity to your favorite recipes.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together red wine, olive oil, thyme, garlic, and smoked paprika.
2. Place the tempeh in a shallow dish or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the tempeh, making sure it is fully coated.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat your grill or cook according to your recipe’s instructions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pomegranate Molasses Tempeh
Elevate your plant-based game with this innovative recipe that combines the nutty flavor of tempeh with the tartness of pomegranate molasses. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of tempeh
– 2 tablespoons of pomegranate molasses
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 teaspoon of soy sauce (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pomegranate molasses, olive oil, soy sauce (if using), and salt.
3. Place the tempeh block on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the pomegranate mixture evenly over the tempeh.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tempeh is tender and caramelized.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jerk Spice Pineapple Tempeh
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of tempeh with the bold and aromatic flavors of jerk seasoning, all wrapped up in a sweet and tangy pineapple glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of tempeh
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pineapple
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together jerk seasoning and tempeh, coating evenly.
3. Place tempeh on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Brush the mixture evenly over the tempeh.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tempeh is golden brown and crispy.
6. Top with chopped pineapple and scallions (if using).
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Tempeh
This recipe combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil with the nutty goodness of tempeh, creating a delicious and healthy vegetarian dish.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup tempeh
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together tempeh, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and mix until the tempeh is well coated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tempeh is lightly browned and fragrant.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your tempeh game with these 20 flavorful marinade recipes! From sweet and spicy maple sriracha to tangy mustard dill, there’s something for every taste bud. Discover how teriyaki ginger glaze brings out the best in tempeh, or try smoky BBQ with molasses for a savory twist. Whether you’re in the mood for something bright and citrusy or rich and spicy, these marinades will take your tempeh to the next level. With flavors like peanut butter coconut curry, cilantro lime chili, and ginger soy garlic, you’ll never tire of this versatile ingredient!