Smoky Marinated Tempeh Skewers
These Smoky Marinated Tempeh Skewers are a flavor-packed plant-based delight, perfect for grilling or baking. The rich, umami marinade infuses the tempeh with a deep smoky sweetness, complemented by tender-crisp vegetables.
For 4 servings
Prepare the Tempeh: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Cut the tempeh block into 1-inch cubes. For best flavor absorption and to reduce any bitterness, you can steam the tempeh cubes for 10 minutes before marinating.
Make the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, maple syrup, smoked paprika, liquid smoke (if using), minced garlic, grated fresh ginger, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil until well combined.
Marinate the Tempeh: Add the prepared tempeh cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours, for the flavors to deeply penetrate the tempeh.
Prepare Vegetables and Skewers: While the tempeh marinates, cut the bell pepper and red onion into roughly 1-inch pieces. If you steamed the tempeh, allow it to cool slightly before handling.
Thread the Skewers: Thread the marinated tempeh cubes onto the skewers, alternating with pieces of bell pepper and red onion. Try not to pack them too tightly, allowing space for even cooking.
Preheat Oven or Grill: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) or preheat an outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Lightly brush the skewers with olive oil and season the vegetables with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
Cook the Skewers: If baking, arrange skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tempeh is golden brown and the vegetables are tender-crisp. If grilling, place skewers directly on the grill grates. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until tempeh has nice grill marks and vegetables are slightly charred and tender.
Serve: Remove the skewers from the oven or grill. Let them rest for a minute or two before serving. Optionally, squeeze fresh lime juice over the top for an extra burst of flavor.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Steaming Tempeh: Steaming tempeh for 10 minutes before marinating helps soften it and opens up its pores, allowing it to absorb the marinade more effectively and reducing any potential bitterness.
- 2Prevent Sticking: If using wooden skewers, always soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to use. For both grilling and baking, lightly brush the skewers with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- 3Don't Overcrowd: When threading the skewers, leave a small gap between each piece of tempeh and vegetable. This allows for better air circulation and more even cooking and caramelization.
- 4Basting for Flavor: During the last few minutes of cooking, you can brush any remaining marinade (that hasn't touched raw tempeh) or a fresh batch of marinade onto the skewers for an extra layer of flavor and glaze.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Kick
Add 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of sriracha or red chili flakes to the marinade for a delicious spicy kick. Adjust to your preferred heat level.
Vegetable MedleyVegetable Medley
Experiment with different vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, pineapple chunks, or mushrooms to add variety to your skewers.
Gluten Free OptionGluten-Free Option
Ensure you use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this recipe completely gluten-free without compromising on flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Plant-Based Protein
Tempeh is an excellent source of complete plant-based protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall satiety, making these skewers a satisfying meal.
Supports Gut Health
As a fermented food, tempeh contains probiotics and prebiotics, which contribute to a healthy gut microbiome, aiding digestion and nutrient absorption.
Rich in Fiber and Nutrients
Both tempeh and the colorful vegetables provide a significant amount of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health, and are packed with essential vitamins and minerals.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can marinate the tempeh for up to 4 hours in the refrigerator. You can also thread the skewers a few hours in advance and keep them covered in the fridge until ready to cook.
