Marinated Grilled Tempeh Recipe with BBQ Sauce

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Marinated and grilled tempeh is a delicious and versatile plant-based protein. Its nutty flavor combined with the smokiness from the grill is a wonderful way to enjoy this vegetarian protein.

a picture of tempeh on a a bed of greens

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If you are looking to add more plant-based options to your diet, tempeh is an excellent choice. It is a flavorful, healthy, and versatile addition to any plant-based meal. This grilled tempeh recipe is perfect for adding to salads, rice bowls, and more!

🤍Why you will love this recipe

Its a versatile and customizable and simple recipe that can be adapted to suit various flavor profiles.
Grilled tempeh is healthy! It’s rich in protein and nutrients and perfect for a plant-based diet.

Here is what you will need

This is an overview of the ingredients and steps to make this recipe; scroll down for a printable recipe card with exact measurements and detailed instructions.

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🛒Ingredients

Tempeh
Soy Sauce
Olive Oil
Garlic Powder
Barbecue Sauce

🥄Equipment

Outdoor Grill or Grill Pan

How to make grilled tempeh

Prepare: Cut the tempeh into strips, mix the marinade ingredients and preheat the grill to medium heat.

STEP 1. Place the tempeh pieces in a shallow dish, pour the tempeh marinade over the tempeh, and marinate for 30 minutes. Remove the tempeh from the marinade.

STEP 2. Place the tempeh strips onto a heated grill grate or grill pan in a single layer. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes brush with barbecue sauce and flip over. Brush with sauce and cook for 2 to 3 minutes longer.

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

Tempeh – If tempeh is not available, you can use frim or extra firm tofu as a substitute. Be sure to press the tofu to remove excess water then marinate and grill it.

Soy Sauce – This can be replaced with tamari sauce or coconut aminos which are both gluten-free alternatives with similar flavors.

Barbecue Sauce – I like to use homemade BBQ sauce, to make this easy bbq tempeh recipe, but any type of sauce will work.

How to store leftovers

Leftover grilled tempeh can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Use leftovers in salads or sandwiches.

Freeze leftover grilled tempeh after allowing it to cool off completely then place it into an airtight freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to three months.

an overhead view of tempeh on a plate with lettuce

Recipe variations

Spicy BBQ Tempeh – Add a kick with a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the barbecue sauce. Consider adding a dash of maple syrup or honey for a sweet and spicy version.

Smoky BBQ Tempeh – Add an extra smoky flavor by adding a dash of liquid smoke or smoked paprika to the barbecue sauce.

Asian Inspired BBQ Tempeh – Add a dash of soy sauce and sesame oil to the barbecue sauce.

Smoky Chipotle BBQ Tempeh – Add a chopped chipotle chili pepper in adobo sauce to the barbecue sauce for a smoky, spicy kick.

Tex-Mex BBQ Tempeh – Add a touch of Tex-Mex flavor with a splash of lime juice, a dash of chili powder and a few diced jalapeno peppers to the barbecue sauce.

a picture of tempeh on a plate with lettuce

Serving suggestions

Serve grilled tempeh as a main dish with a baked sweet potato or brown rice and roasted vegetables or sauteed cauliflower.

Tempeh also tastes great in a salad like this chopped Greek salad or kale salad or make tempeh bbq sandwiches with it.

Try this! Place slices of cooked tempeh on in a soft taco shell or tortilla with chopped red onion, chopped jalapeno peppers, shredded lettuce, and guacamole for bbq tempeh tacos.

💡Top Tips

Be sure that the tempeh is cut into uniform-sized slices to ensure even cooking.
Use a grill topper or basket to cook the tempeh, it will make it easier to flip and the tempeh will not fall through the grates on the grill.
Add the barbecue sauce at the very end to prevent the tempeh from burning.
Tempeh will soak up most of the marinade, but if you have any leftover marinade, brush it on the tempeh just before grilling.

What is tempeh?

Tempeh is a soybean product that has gone through a fermentation process. It has a nutty and earthy flavor with a unique texture that is slightly crumbly.

How can I prevent tempeh from sticking to the grill?

To prevent the tempeh from sticking to the grill, make sure the grill grates are well-oiled before you add the tempeh.

Can I grill the tempeh without marinating it?

The marinade adds a little bit of flavor and moisture, but you can grill tempeh without a marinade. The tempeh may have a drier texture and a milder flavor.

Can I make grilled tempeh on top of the stove?

Yes, you can easily make grilled tempeh on top of the stove. After marinating the tempeh, place the tempeh cubes or slices in a heated skillet or grill pan and cook over medium-high heat for 6 to 8 minutes on each side.

Are you too tired to cook dinner?

If you’re feeling uninspired when it’s time to cook dinner, this free guide will help you make a quick and healthy dinner with ingredients you have in your kitchen.