These buffalo tempeh tenders were one of the first things I learned to cook when I began my home chef journey. Buffalo sauce is one of my all-time favorites so over the years I perfected this tempeh tender recipe. When dealing with vegetarian meat substitutes the goal is always to create a mock version so good that you don’t realize it’s vegetarian. With years of testing, I’ve developed this trick to create the best vegetarian buffalo chicken tenders and I’m excited to share it with you.
Here’s What You’ll Need
Tempeh: Tempeh has more taste and texture than tofu, and it is a hearty meat alternative. If you’re not a fan of tempeh, you can substitute extra firm tofu. Buffalo sauce: My favorite is Frank’s Red Hot, but you can use whichever you fancy! Breading: We’re baking these tenders rather than frying, meaning we’ll do some basic breading to get them crunchy. You’ll need all-purpose flour, egg (or flax egg for a vegan option), and panko bread crumbs. Feel free to use gluten-free flour. To serve: Because no tenders are complete without a good sauce, I love to serve mine with ranch or bleu cheese dressing and celery sticks. Here’s a fun recipe for homemade ranch dressing (made with kefir!).
Tempeh Tenders are easy to make
Step 1 (Optional): Steam the TempehPrepare a steamer basket on the stove. Slice the tempeh into thin rectangular tenders. Place tempeh in a single layer in the basket, cover, and steam for 10 minutes. Step 2: Marinade the TempehPlace tempeh in a deep dish and cover with buffalo sauce, tossing to evenly coat. Let the tempeh marinate for at least 1 hour (or up to 12) in the fridge. Step 3: Prep the TendersPreheat oven to 375 °F (190°C). Shake excess sauce from the tempeh and set on a plate, reserving the buffalo sauce marinade. Combine flour, salt, and pepper in one bowl, egg in another bowl, and panko in the last bowl, with a parchment-lined baking sheet at the end. Getting your breading station set up is crucial for making the breading process smooth and easy! Step 4: Bread the TendersCoat each tempeh tenderly in flour, then egg, then bread crumbs, and set on the baking sheet. I like to use a fork to prevent my fingers from getting too gunky. Step 5: Bake the TendersBake for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown. Brush each tender with remaining buffalo sauce, then return to the oven for 5 minutes until slightly dry. Pro tip: Serve these tempeh tenders on a classic Buffalo Tempeh Sandwich!
how to serve buffalo tenders
You can serve these Buffalo Tempeh Tenders by themselves, as a salad topper, on a buffalo tempeh sandwich, or in your weekly meal prep. The possibilities are endless here, friends. Enjoy!
