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Air Fryer Tempeh Bacon - Crispy, Smoky, and Quick

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces tempeh (plain, any brand)
  • 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or rice vinegar)
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or olive oil)
  • 1 to 1½ teaspoons liquid smoke (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional heat: ⅛ teaspoon cayenne or a splash of hot sauce

Method
 

  1. Prep the tempeh: Slice the block into thin strips, about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. Thinner slices crisp more; thicker slices stay chewier.
  2. Optional steam (for less bitterness): Steam the slices for 10 minutes in a steamer basket or microwave with a splash of water and covered dish. Pat dry.
  3. Make the marinade: Whisk soy sauce, maple syrup, vinegar, oil, liquid smoke, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper in a shallow bowl.
  4. Marinate: Add tempeh slices and toss to coat. Let sit 15–30 minutes, flipping halfway. For deeper flavor, marinate up to 24 hours in the fridge.
  5. Preheat the air fryer: Set to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes. Lightly oil the basket or use parchment made for air fryers.
  6. Arrange and cook: Lay tempeh slices in a single layer with space between them. Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway. Brush with extra marinade after flipping for richer flavor.
  7. Watch for doneness: They’re done when edges are browned and crisp. If you like them extra crispy, add 1–2 more minutes, but don’t walk away—tempeh can go from perfect to too dark quickly.
  8. Rest and serve: Let the strips cool for 2–3 minutes. They’ll firm up as they rest. Serve immediately or cool completely for storage.