BBQ Tempeh Skewers
Tempeh cubes are marinated in a smoky, tangy vegan barbecue sauce, threaded onto skewers, and grilled or broiled until charred at the edges. Tempeh's firm texture holds up well to high heat and absorbs the sweet-savory marinade throughout. Plan about 30 minutes including marinating time, making these a practical choice for summer grilling or a party appetizer.
Equipment
- 1 Grill or Grill Pan
- 1 Mixing bowls
- 1 Sharp knife
- 1 Small saucepan
- 1 Wooden or Metal Skewers
Ingredients
For the Tempeh Marinade
- 8 oz tempeh Organic, cut into 1-inch cubes
- ¼ cup low-sodium tamari
- 2 tbsp maple syrup Pure, grade A preferred
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar Raw, unfiltered
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
For the Vegan BBQ Sauce
- ½ cup tomato paste
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp vegan Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp liquid smoke Optional but recommended for depth
For the Skewers
- 1 medium red bell pepper Cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 medium zucchini Sliced into thick coins
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ tsp sea salt or to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Tempeh: In a bowl, whisk together tamari, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika. Add tempeh cubes and toss to coat. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, ideally in the refrigerator.
- Prepare the BBQ Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat (about 350°F / 175°C), combine tomato paste, maple syrup, vinegar, vegan Worcestershire, garlic powder, and liquid smoke. Stir and simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened, then set aside.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread marinated tempeh, bell pepper, and zucchini alternately on the skewers. Lightly brush vegetables with olive oil and sprinkle them with sea salt.
- Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally until vegetables are slightly charred and tempeh is caramelized. During the last few minutes, baste skewers generously with BBQ sauce on all sides.
- Serve: Remove from grill and brush with any remaining BBQ sauce. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, ensure your tamari and vegan Worcestershire are certified gluten-free.
- For a spicier sauce, add 1/2 tsp cayenne or chili flakes to the BBQ sauce.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling to avoid burning.
Nutrition
Calories: 287kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 15gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 1286mgPotassium: 949mgFiber: 3gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 2394IUVitamin C: 55mgCalcium: 131mgIron: 4mg
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