Crispy Tempeh and Vegetable Bowl

Name: Crispy Tempeh and Vegetable Bowl
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup tempeh, diced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 carrot, julienned; 1 cup snap peas; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; 2 tablespoons tahini; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon maple syrup; Water to thin, if needed

Highlighted under: Easy Plates

When I first tried making a Crispy Tempeh and Vegetable Bowl, I was amazed at how perfectly the flavors melded together. I love the crunch of the perfectly fried tempeh paired with fresh, colorful veggies. It’s not just a quick meal; it’s packed with nutrients and makes for a satisfying dish that keeps me full. Plus, I can easily customize the ingredients based on what I have on hand, making it a versatile choice for any weeknight dinner.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:14:27.751Z

When I made this bowl for the first time, I was experimenting with new plant-based proteins, and tempeh was a standout. The secret to achieving that crispy texture lies in the marinating and frying technique. I found that air frying tempeh makes it extra crispy without the guilt of deep frying.

Another tip is to use seasonal vegetables to elevate the dish. I often swap out broccoli for seasonal greens or add some sweet bell peppers, which enhance both flavor and nutrition. This bowl has truly become one of my go-to meals!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Crispy texture that adds a delightful crunch to each bite
Colorful and nutritious veggies make every bowl an adventure
Fully customizable with your favorite ingredients

Mastering the Crispy Tempeh

The marinade is key to achieving depth in flavor for your tempeh. I recommend allowing it to marinate for at least 10 minutes; however, if you have the time, letting it sit for 30 minutes or even overnight in the refrigerator will enhance the taste even more. The soy sauce adds a savory umami, while smoked paprika introduces a subtle smokiness that complements the crunchy texture.

For that perfectly crispy exterior, make sure your skillet is hot before adding the tempeh. A non-stick skillet is ideal, but if you're using a regular cast-iron pan, a good amount of oil will help prevent sticking. Cook the tempeh in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding the pan, which can cause steaming instead of frying. You’ll know it’s ready to flip when the edges turn golden brown.

Choosing the Right Vegetables

This bowl is incredibly versatile regarding the vegetable selection. While broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas bring vibrant colors and textures, feel free to use whatever you have on hand. Zucchini, asparagus, or green beans are fantastic alternatives. Just remember that veggie thickness affects cooking time—cut them uniformly to ensure they sauté evenly.

When sautéing the vegetables, aim for a medium-high heat to achieve that slight char that adds flavor. Cook for about 5 minutes until they are tender yet still crisp. If you notice any browning on the pan, adding a splash of water can help deglaze and infuse more flavor into the mix.

Perfecting the Tahini Sauce

The tahini sauce seamlessly ties this dish together. Start with high-quality tahini; this makes a noticeable difference in flavor. If you find your tahini too thick, gradually add water while stirring until you reach a creamy, drizzle-able consistency. This sauce also serves as a great dip or drizzle for other meals; consider making extra to have on hand throughout the week.

Feel free to adjust the lemon juice and maple syrup to suit your personal taste. If you prefer a tangier flavor, add an extra squeeze of lemon, or if you're looking for a sweeter profile, increase the maple syrup. The balance of flavors is essential, so taste as you go and tweak until it reflects your palate.

Ingredients

Crispy Tempeh

1 cup tempeh, diced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 tablespoons cornstarch

Vegetables

1 bell pepper, sliced
1 cup broccoli florets
1 carrot, julienned
1 cup snap peas
1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Sauce

2 tablespoons tahini
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon maple syrup
Water to thin, if needed

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Tempeh

In a bowl, combine diced tempeh, soy sauce, olive oil, and smoked paprika. Marinate for 10 minutes. Add cornstarch and mix until well-coated.

Cook the Tempeh

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated tempeh and cook until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the sliced bell pepper, broccoli, carrot, and snap peas. Sauté for 5 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.

Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix tahini, lemon juice, and maple syrup. Add water a little at a time until you reach desired consistency.

Assemble the Bowl

In a serving bowl, add the sautéed vegetables, top with crispy tempeh, drizzle with tahini sauce, and sprinkle sesame seeds.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap vegetables based on your preference or what’s in season. Adding a few chili flakes can give the dish a nice kick!

Storage and Meal Prep

If you're meal prepping, store the crispy tempeh and sautéed veggies separately to maintain texture. The tempeh can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore its crispness. Sautéed veggies are best enjoyed fresh; however, if you must store them, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

For those looking to save time during busy weeknights, pre-cut your vegetables and prepare the tempeh marinade ahead of time. You can also cook a large batch of tempeh and sauté it all at once, allowing you to quickly assemble a bowl on a whim.

Serving Suggestions

This bowl can be transformed based on what you enjoy or have on hand. Consider serving it over a bed of quinoa, rice, or even mixed greens for extra fiber. Adding nuts or seeds like chopped almonds or pumpkin seeds can enhance the crunch and add some healthy fats, creating a well-rounded meal.

For a spicy kick, drizzle some sriracha or sprinkle red pepper flakes over your bowl before serving. Fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions can also elevate the flavor profile, making each bowl visually appealing and packed with fresh aromas.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use tofu instead of tempeh?

Yes, tofu can be used, but ensure to press it well to remove excess moisture.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, this recipe can be gluten-free.

→ Can I make this bowl ahead of time?

While you can marinate tempeh ahead of time, it's best to sauté the vegetables fresh to maintain their texture.