If you’ve been looking for a great vegan alternative to bacon with a perfectly balanced smoky flavor– look no further. This super simple BBQ tempeh marinade combined with the soaking ability of tempeh is going to change your breakfast table forever.
I have to say; tempeh is one of the best discoveries I’ve made in the last year. Its ability to soak up flavors, its texture, and adaptability make it an excellent vegan meat alternative.
To put the versatility of tempeh to the test, I experimented with flavor by creating a delicious smoky marinade that would impersonate one of the west's most loved cured meats – bacon.
The best thing about this tempeh marinade is how quick and simple it is. In only a few minutes of your precious time you will create a sensational vegan alternative to bacon that you can use as a side to any meal, a garnish, or all by itself as a healthy, protein rich snack.
What Is Smoky Tempeh Marinade Made Of?
What Is Smoky Tempeh Marinade Made Of?If you’re not yet familiar with how to make tempeh, let me introduce you to your new best vegan friend.
Tempeh is made with fermented soybeans making it very nutritious and protein rich.
It is an excellent source of vegan probiotics, vitamins and dietary fiber. Its also very versatile.
For example, one of my favorite ways of using it is as a ground beef substitute in my Tempeh Vegan Taco Meat recipe.
Only a few key ingredients are required to make a mouth-watering marinade that will transform your simple tempeh into a smoky vegan bacon alternative.
The great thing is that you very likely already have all the ingredients in your cupboards just waiting to be mixed together.
How to Make Smoky Tempeh Marinade
Like I said, this BBQ tempeh marinade is so incredibly simple. All you will need is one bowl, a spoon or fork for mixing, two minutes and the following ingredients:
- Soy sauce;
- Sesame oil;
- Maple syrup;
- Sriracha;
- Smoked paprika;
- Garlic powder;
- Salt and pepper ;
- (optional) 1 teaspoon Marmite
- Combine all the ingredients EXCEPT the tempeh in one large bowl.
- Set aside three tablespoons of the marinade for serving.
- Add the tempeh slices and coat each one evenly.
- Place the BBQ tempeh into the fridge and marinate for 20 – 60 minutes.
- Cook as you so desire (bake or pan fried) and drizzle with the reserved three tablespoons of marinade.
Enjoy!
Since tempeh is tasty, healthy and versatile, consider using it in other dishes as a meat alternative.
If you’ve been won over to the tempeh fan club, then I have some great tempeh recipes that you’ll love. One of which is a twist on the classic comfort food: Vegan Sloppy Joes.
Cook’s Tips
- This recipe works well with batch cooking. The marinade keeps well in the fridge in a closed jar for up to 1 month.
- Consider making marinated tempeh a day ahead. You can marinate the tempeh for up to 24 hours.
- If the marinade is too thick, add a few teaspoons of water.
- For more creative recipe ideas check these 20 best tempeh recipes.
Recipe Variations
- Avocado oil or other neutral oils can be substituted for sesame oil. If you don’t want to use oil, add 2-3 tablespoons of water to the marinade instead.
- Use agave syrup or other sweetener of your choice instead of the maple syrup.
Make sure to check my ultimate guide on how to cook tempeh that I put together and discover more delicious ways to cook tempeh!
Here is the recipe video and full instructions for this smoky tempeh marinade recipe. If you don't see the video, disable your AdBlock for this page by clicking on the AdBlock button and selecting Don’t run on this page.
I hope you enjoyed this recipe, and if so, make sure to give it a 5-star rating! I really appreciate your feedback!
Smoky Tempeh Marinade
Ingredients
- 7 oz tempeh sliced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon sriracha
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt
- Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Marmite optional
Instructions
- Combine all the ingredients except tempeh in a large bowl. Keep 1 tablespoon of the marinade for serving. Add tempeh slices and coat evenly. Let marinate for 20-60 minutes in the fridge. Then cook as desired and drizzle with the reserved sauce. Enjoy!
Notes
Cook’s Tips
- This recipe works well with batch cooking. The marinade keeps well in the fridge in a closed jar for up to 1 month.
- Consider making marinated tempeh a day ahead. You can marinate the tempeh for up to 24 hours.
- If the marinade is too thick, add a few teaspoons of water.
- For more creative recipe ideas check these 20 best tempeh recipes.
Recipe Variations
- Avocado oil or other neutral oils can be substituted for sesame oil. If you don’t want to use oil, add 2-3 tablespoons of water to the marinade instead.
- Use agave syrup or other sweetener of your choice instead of the maple syrup.
Anto says
Made this today and it was delicious!!! Thank you for sharing!
Elena Szeliga says
So glad you enjoyed it, Antonella! 🙂
Lorenza says
Hi following your recipe for the marinade gives me about 4 liquid tablespoons (1 tbs each soy, oil, maple) total? How do I reserve 3 for later? Sorry if it is a stupid question
Elena Szeliga says
Hi Lorenza, thank you for asking this! There was a typo that I just corrected - instead of 3 tbsp please keep 1 (and use 3 for marinating). Hope you enjoy the recipe!