There’s something truly exhilarating about the fiery aroma of buffalo sauce filling the kitchen, especially when it means we can indulge in a comforting classic without sacrificing our values. Enter my Vegan Tempeh Buffalo Wings— a delicious twist on the traditional crowd favorite that will leave everyone asking for seconds. While I was searching for ways to elevate my dinner game on a busy weeknight, I stumbled upon the perfect solution: crispy tempeh treated with a spicy glaze that cranks the flavor up to eleven!
These wings are not just quick to whip up—they’re a plant-based masterpiece that delivers a satisfying crunch, making them an ideal choice for game day gatherings or a cozy evening snack. Trust me, even your non-vegan friends will be reaching for these instead of their usual go-to. Ready to transform your taste buds and experience buffalo bliss? Let’s dive into this recipe that proves delicious comfort food doesn’t have to come from chicken!
Why You’ll Love Tempeh Buffalo Wings?
Unforgettable flavor: The spicy buffalo sauce gets a plant-based makeover that packs a punch without compromising taste.
Quick prep time: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delightful dish ready in no time.
Crispy perfection: Tempeh’s unique texture ensures a crunch that rivals traditional wings, satisfying all cravings.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for game days or gatherings, your friends won’t believe they’re vegan!
Versatile options: Customize with different sauces or serve with your favorite dips for endless variations.
Nutrient-rich: Packed with plant-based protein, these wings let you indulge guilt-free!
Tempeh Buffalo Wings Ingredients
For the Batter
- Vegan Mayonnaise – Adds creaminess and binds the ingredients; feel free to use any plant-based mayonnaise.
- Chopped Fresh Dill – Provides a fresh, herby flavor; dried dill can be substituted if fresh is unavailable.
- Unsweetened Almond Milk – Lightens the ranch dressing; any non-dairy milk or regular milk can work as alternatives.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds acidity for balance; white vinegar can serve as an alternative if needed.
- Garlic Powder – Enhances flavor, giving it that signature kick.
- Onion Powder – Adds a layer of savory taste to the dressing.
- Sweet Paprika – Offers mild sweetness and vibrant color; use regular paprika if you can’t find sweet.
- Kosher Salt – Essential for enhancing the overall taste.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds a peppery kick that balances the other flavors.
For the Tempeh Wings
- Tempeh (8-ounce blocks) – The main protein source that mimics chicken’s texture delightfully.
- Safflower or Vegetable Oil – Used for grilling to prevent sticking; olive oil can also be substituted.
- Hot Sauce (Frank’s preferred) – Provides the signature buffalo flavor; swap it for your favorite hot sauce if desired.
- Vegan Butter – Adds richness to the sauce, making it irresistibly indulgent.
- Light Agave Syrup – Balances the heat of the hot sauce with sweetness; honey can work for non-vegan options.
For Serving
- Celery Stalks – Offers a crisp, refreshing side to complement the spicy wings—perfect for dipping!
Get ready to enjoy these flavorful Tempeh Buffalo Wings that are sure to impress everyone at your table!
How to Make Tempeh Buffalo Wings
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Steam the Tempeh: Place the tempeh blocks in a large pot and steam them for about 10 minutes until softened. This step ensures a tender texture that’s perfect for grilling.
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Cut the Tempeh: Once steamed, carefully slice the tempeh into wing-shaped pieces or triangles. This will help them achieve that classic wing look and texture.
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Grill the Tempeh: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates, then place the tempeh pieces on the grill. Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side until crispy and golden brown.
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Mix the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the hot sauce, melted vegan butter, and light agave syrup. Stir well until the ingredients are fully blended into a luscious sauce.
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Toss in Sauce: Gently toss the grilled tempeh in the buffalo sauce mixture until well coated. This step packs those wings with flavor, making each bite irresistible!
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Serve & Enjoy: Plate the tempeh buffalo wings with fresh celery sticks on the side, and don’t forget a bowl of vegan ranch dressing for dipping.
Optional: Garnish with additional chopped dill for a fresh touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Tempeh Buffalo Wings are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeks! You can steam and grill the tempeh up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate the cooked pieces in an airtight container to maintain their crispy texture. For the buffalo sauce, mix the ingredients and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just toss the grilled tempeh in the chilled sauce and give it a quick reheat on the grill or stovetop for a few minutes to revive that delicious heat. This way, you’ll have fabulous Tempeh Buffalo Wings that are just as flavorful and satisfying with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Tempeh Buffalo Wings
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Steam Effectively: Properly steam the tempeh for about 10 minutes to ensure it’s tender, allowing for the perfect texture when grilled.
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Watch the Grill: Stay close when grilling to prevent burning, as the sugars in the buffalo sauce can caramelize quickly—this ensures a perfectly crispy wing!
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Sauce Mix: Coat the tempeh wings thoroughly in the buffalo sauce mixture before serving to maximize flavor in every bite of your Tempeh Buffalo Wings.
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Make Ahead: Prep the vegan ranch dressing a day prior for optimal flavor, and make extra so you can have it on hand for later meals.
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Substitutions: Don’t hesitate to customize! If you’re out of ingredients, many substitutions can work beautifully without losing the essence of these delicious wings.
How to Store and Freeze Tempeh Buffalo Wings
Room Temperature: Enjoy your tempeh buffalo wings fresh for up to 2 hours after cooking; they’re best served hot and crispy.
Fridge: Store any leftover wings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to regain their crispy texture.
Freezer: Freeze uncoated tempeh wings in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container where they can last for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat frozen wings in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through and crisp.
What to Serve with Tempeh Buffalo Wings?
Elevate your mealtime experience with delicious sides and pairings that bring out the best in these spicy, crispy treats.
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Creamy Vegan Ranch: This cool, velvety dip balances the heat of the buffalo sauce, making it a perfect companion for every wing.
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Crispy Celery Sticks: The refreshing crunch of celery is a classic pairing that adds texture and contrast while keeping the meal light.
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Savory Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness complements the spicy flavors of the wings and provides a satisfying crunch that everyone will enjoy.
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Garlic Breadsticks: These soft, buttery treats add a delightful carb element, allowing you to soak up the delicious buffalo sauce left on your plate.
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Coleslaw: A zesty, crunchy coleslaw brings brightness and texture to the meal, cutting through the richness of the wings wonderfully.
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Apple Cider Mocktail: This sweet yet tangy drink refreshes your palate with every sip, making it a perfect choice to offset the spiciness of the sauce.
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Chocolate Avocado Mousse: A decadent yet healthy dessert, its creamy richness will leave you satisfied without the heaviness of traditional sweets.
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Vegan Beer: The crispness of a good vegan beer complements the bold flavors, making it another perfect ally to these flavorful buffalo wings!
Variations & Substitutions for Tempeh Buffalo Wings
Feel free to personalize this scrumptious recipe and make it your own with these exciting twists!
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Cauliflower Alternative: Substitute tempeh with cauliflower florets for a gluten-free, lighter version that still packs a satisfying crunch.
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BBQ Flavor: Transform the buffalo vibe by using your favorite BBQ sauce instead of hot sauce to create a sweet and smoky wing variant.
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Spicy Mango: Mix a spicy mango sauce with the butter to add a tropical twist that balances heat with sweetness.
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Higher Heat: Amp up the heat level by adding minced jalapeños or a few extra dashes of your preferred hot sauce.
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Chickpea Option: Replace tempeh with canned chickpeas, lightly mashed, to give a different texture while staying true to the plant-based goodness.
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Taco Twist: Add taco seasoning to the batter for a delightful flavor fusion that pairs wonderfully with avocado and salsa.
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Air Fryer Crunch: For that extra crunch, try air frying the tempeh instead of grilling, cooking at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
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Nut Butter Blend: Mix a spoonful of almond or cashew butter into the buffalo sauce for a unique, nutty flavor that adds creaminess.
Whatever your choice, these variations will ensure your Tempeh Buffalo Wings remain as exciting as they are delicious!
Tempeh Buffalo Wings Recipe FAQs
What kind of tempeh should I use?
Absolutely! Look for fresh, organic tempeh that’s firm and free from dark spots. It should feel slightly moist and have a nutty aroma. Avoid tempeh that appears cracked or discolored.
How should I store leftover Tempeh Buffalo Wings?
To preserve the flavor and texture, place your leftover wings in an airtight container and refrigerate them. They can last up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for optimal crunchiness!
Can I freeze Tempeh Buffalo Wings?
Very! To freeze, place the uncoated tempeh wings in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, where they will last for up to 2 months.
Reheat frozen wings in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through and crispy.
Why did my wings turn out soggy?
If your wings ended up soggy, the most likely culprit is excess moisture before grilling. Ensure the tempeh is steamed properly but not too wet when placed on the grill.
Also, allow them to rest for a few moments after grilling to let any steam escape and help retain that delightful crunch!
Is it safe for pets?
While tempeh itself is safe for dogs in small quantities, avoid giving them buffalo sauce due to the garlic and hot spices that can be harmful. Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your pet’s diet.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! If you’re trying to avoid gluten, make sure to choose certified gluten-free tempeh and double-check your hot sauce and any condiments you plan to use, ensuring they are also gluten-free. Enjoy all the buffalo flavor without the worry!
Tempeh Buffalo Wings That Will Wow Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Steam the Tempeh: Place the tempeh blocks in a large pot and steam them for about 10 minutes until softened.
- Cut the Tempeh: Once steamed, carefully slice the tempeh into wing-shaped pieces or triangles.
- Grill the Tempeh: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates, then place the tempeh pieces on the grill. Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side until crispy.
- Mix the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the hot sauce, melted vegan butter, and light agave syrup. Stir well until fully blended.
- Toss in Sauce: Gently toss the grilled tempeh in the buffalo sauce mixture until well coated.
- Serve & Enjoy: Plate the tempeh buffalo wings with fresh celery sticks on the side.