Basic Oven-Baked Marinated Tempeh
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 17 Jan 2026
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This oven-baked marinated tempeh is a versatile vegan staple that provides a savory, high-protein base for countless meals. By soaking the tempeh in a tangy blend of tamari and vinegar, you transform its naturally nutty profile into a deeply flavoured ingredient. The baking process ensures a firm, satisfying texture without the need for heavy frying, making it a healthy choice for those seeking a nutritious plant-based boost. It is an excellent way to introduce more fermented soy into your diet while keeping preparation simple.
Designed as a foundational recipe, this homemade tempeh fits perfectly into your weekly meal prep routine. Use it to add substance to vibrant grain bowls, toss it through a seasonal stir-fry, or layer it into sandwiches for a quick lunch. You can easily customise the marinade with ginger, garlic, or sesame oil to suit your favourite cuisine. This reliable method delivers consistent results every time, ensuring your vegan cooking is both delicious and effortless.
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Ingredients for Basic Oven-Baked Marinated Tempeh
2 tablespoons tamari or shoyu soy sauce
1 1/2 tablespoons vinegar (white, cider, balsamic, rice, red- or white-wine — whatever you have on hand or goes with the flavours of whatever your end-use recipe is)
1 teaspoon Pickapeppa (optional but good) (see tip, below)
Any combination of the seasonings (see note
optional)
1 tempeh cake (230g), cut in the size or shape appropriate to use
Cooking spray
How to make Basic Oven-Baked Marinated Tempeh
Combine the tamari, vinegar, and Pickapeppa in a nonreactive dish and stir to combine. If using additional seasoning (see below), add it here. Add the tempeh. Marinate at room temperature, turning occasionally, for 20 minutes to 1 hour or refrigerated for up to 2 days.
Fifteen minutes before you are ready to cook the tempeh, preheat the oven to 191°C.
Place the marinated tempeh pieces on a nonstick baking sheet or one that has been sprayed with cooking spray, allowing plenty of air space between chunks. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, then flip the pieces over and bake for another 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and use as desired.
The above is a basic recipe, designed to be compatible with almost any finished recipe. But the marinade can certainly be zapped up to good effect.
• 1 to 3 cloves garlic, pressed
• 1 to 2 teaspoons peeled grated ginger
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
• 1 to 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 to 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
• 1/2 to 1 teaspoon Tabasco or other hot sauce
• 1 tablespoon ketchup or tomato paste
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
17 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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