Crispy Air Fryer Tempeh Ribs (Easy Vegan BBQ Recipe)

I’ll be honest with you.

The first time someone said, “You have to try tempeh ribs,” I smiled politely and thought, Sure… ribs without ribs. I grew up around backyard BBQs in the Midwest. Ribs meant sticky fingers, smoky sauce, and that half-messy, half-joyful experience.

But then I tried making Air Fryer Tempeh Ribs at home.

And wow.

Crispy edges. Smoky-sweet glaze. Tender inside. Zero grill. Zero babysitting. Just a solid, plant-based main dish that even my meat-loving brother admitted was “actually really good.” That’s high praise.

If you’re looking for a vegan rib recipe, an easy air fryer tempeh idea, or a healthier spin on classic BBQ, this recipe will surprise you in the best way.

Let’s get into it.

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What Are Air Fryer Tempeh Ribs?

Tempeh ribs are thick strips of tempeh that you steam, marinate, and cook until crispy, then coat with BBQ sauce for that classic rib vibe.

You get:

• Crispy exterior
• Chewy, satisfying bite
• Smoky, sticky glaze
• High-protein plant-based comfort food

Ever wondered why tempeh works so well here? It has a firm texture and nutty flavor that holds up beautifully in the air fryer. Unlike tofu, it doesn’t fall apart.

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Why I Prefer the Air Fryer Method

I’ve baked tempeh ribs in the oven. I’ve pan-fried them. I’ve even grilled them once.

The air fryer wins every time.

Here’s why:

• Faster cooking
• Crispier texture
• Less oil
• Easy cleanup

The circulating heat creates those caramelized edges that feel almost grilled. IMO, the air fryer turns tempeh into something magical 🙂

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What Is Tempeh (And Why You Should Care)?

Tempeh is fermented soybeans pressed into a firm block.

It’s:

• High in protein
• Naturally vegan
• Packed with probiotics
• Slightly nutty and earthy

Some people think tempeh tastes bitter. That usually means they skipped steaming it first. Steaming removes bitterness and helps it absorb marinade better.

Trust me on this step.

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Ingredients for Air Fryer Tempeh Ribs

Here’s everything you need.

For the Tempeh

• 2 (8-ounce) blocks tempeh
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari)
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the BBQ Glaze

• ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Simple ingredients. Big flavor.

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The Best Air Fryer for Tempeh Ribs

I use the COSORI Air Fryer Max XL 5.8 Quart for this recipe. It cooks evenly and fits both blocks at once without crowding.

Here’s the exact one I use:
https://amzn.to/4tO7B6O

If you cook plant-based meals often, a good air fryer changes everything. It makes vegetables crisp, reheats leftovers perfectly, and handles recipes like this with ease.

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Step-by-Step: How I Make Air Fryer Tempeh Ribs

Step 1: Steam the Tempeh

Slice each block into thick strips, about ½ inch wide.

Place strips in a steamer basket over simmering water.

Steam for 10 minutes.

This step reduces bitterness and softens the texture.

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Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk:

• Olive oil
• Soy sauce
• Maple syrup
• Smoked paprika
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Black pepper

Place steamed tempeh in the marinade.

Let it soak for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinate for 2 hours.

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Step 3: Air Fry

Preheat air fryer to 375°F.

Place marinated tempeh strips in a single layer.

Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Edges should look golden and slightly crispy.

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Step 4: Add BBQ Glaze

Mix BBQ sauce, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar.

Brush glaze onto tempeh.

Return to air fryer for 3–4 more minutes until caramelized.

That sticky finish? That’s the good stuff.

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Tips for Crispy, Flavorful Tempeh Ribs

1. Don’t Skip Steaming

Steaming makes a massive difference in flavor.

2. Avoid Overcrowding

Give each strip space. Crowding causes steaming instead of crisping.

3. Use Smoked Paprika

It adds that subtle “grilled” flavor without a grill.

4. Flip Halfway

Flipping ensures even crispiness.

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My Favorite BBQ Sauces for This Recipe

You can use any BBQ sauce, but I love:

• Sweet Baby Ray’s Original
• Primal Kitchen Classic BBQ (cleaner ingredients)
• Stubbs Hickory Bourbon

A good sauce carries the final flavor, so choose one you genuinely enjoy.

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What to Serve with Tempeh Ribs

Make it a full BBQ plate:

• Creamy coleslaw
• Cornbread
• Roasted sweet potatoes
• Mac and cheese (vegan or regular)
• Pickles

You won’t miss traditional ribs. Seriously.

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Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 4–5 minutes.

They crisp back up beautifully.