BBQ Tempeh Sliders Recipe

Tempeh: A firm soy product that holds up well when cooked and soaks up flavors nicely.

BBQ sauce: Adds a sweet and smoky flavor that makes the tempeh taste like a classic barbecue treat.

Slider buns: Small sandwich buns that are perfect for making mini sandwiches or sliders.

Coleslaw: Optional crunchy topping made from shredded cabbage and dressing, adding freshness and texture.

One of the most important steps in this BBQ Tempeh Sliders recipe is getting the tempeh golden brown before adding the bbq sauce. Here’s how to do it so your sliders turn out just right:

First, heat your skillet over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sizzle but not so hot that the tempeh burns right away. Next, add the sliced tempeh in a single layer—don’t crowd the pan, or it won’t brown evenly. Let it cook without moving it for a few minutes until the bottom side turns a nice golden color. Then, flip each slice carefully and cook the other side the same way.

Why does this matter? When the tempeh gets golden and a little crispy, it adds a great texture and flavor that makes your sliders taste way better. If you skip this step or rush it, the tempeh can end up soft and bland, and the bbq sauce won’t stick as well.

A little secret I learned the hard way: at first, I kept flipping the tempeh too often because I was worried about burning it. But that just made it soggy. Now, I wait patiently and only flip once. Also, if your skillet isn’t non-stick, a tiny bit of oil helps prevent sticking without making things greasy.

Once your tempeh is perfectly browned, pouring the bbq sauce over it and letting it simmer for a few minutes lets the flavors soak in. This step makes the sliders juicy and full of that smoky, tangy taste everyone loves.

So, take your time with browning the tempeh—it’s a small step that makes a big difference in your BBQ sliders!

• tempeh - Substitute with tofu: Tofu has a similar texture and can absorb flavors well, making it a good alternative for tempeh in sliders.

• tempeh - Substitute with portobello mushrooms: Portobello mushrooms provide a meaty texture and umami flavor, which can mimic the heartiness of tempeh.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with teriyaki sauce: Teriyaki sauce offers a sweet and savory profile that can complement the other ingredients in the sliders.

• bbq sauce - Substitute with sriracha mayo: Sriracha mayo adds a spicy and creamy element that can enhance the flavor of the sliders.

• slider buns - Substitute with lettuce wraps: Lettuce wraps provide a low-carb alternative and add a fresh, crisp texture to the sliders.

• slider buns - Substitute with whole wheat buns: Whole wheat buns offer a healthier option with more fiber and nutrients compared to regular slider buns.

• coleslaw - Substitute with pickled vegetables: Pickled vegetables add a tangy and crunchy element that can balance the flavors in the sliders.

• coleslaw - Substitute with sliced avocado: Sliced avocado provides a creamy texture and healthy fats, adding richness to the sliders.

• Allow the bbq tempeh to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the slider buns soggy.

• Store the tempeh and slider buns separately. Place the cooked tempeh in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Keep the buns in a sealed bag or container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

• If you have coleslaw, store it in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator. This ensures it stays fresh and crisp.

• For freezing, wrap each tempeh slice individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container. This method prevents the slices from sticking together and makes it easy to thaw only what you need.

• Freeze the tempeh for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.

• To reheat, warm the tempeh in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can add a bit more bbq sauce if desired to refresh the flavor.

• Toast the slider buns just before serving to ensure they are warm and slightly crispy.

• Assemble the sliders with the reheated bbq tempeh and coleslaw just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap each BBQ tempeh slider individually in aluminum foil to retain moisture. Place them on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

• For a quicker method, use a microwave. Place the BBQ tempeh sliders on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are evenly heated.

• If you prefer a crispy texture, reheat the tempeh separately in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of bbq sauce to keep it moist. Toast the slider buns in a toaster or on a skillet until they are warm and slightly crispy. Assemble the sliders just before serving.

• For those with an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the BBQ tempeh sliders in the basket and heat for 3-5 minutes. This method will give you a nice, crispy finish on the buns while keeping the tempeh juicy.

• If you have a steamer, you can use it to reheat the tempeh without drying it out. Place the tempeh in the steamer basket and steam for about 5 minutes. Toast the slider buns separately and then reassemble.

• For a stovetop method, place the BBQ tempeh sliders in a covered pan over low heat. Add a small amount of water or bbq sauce to create steam, which will help keep the tempeh moist. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.

• Skillet: Used to cook the sliced tempeh until golden brown on both sides.

• Spatula: Handy for flipping the tempeh slices to ensure they cook evenly.

• Measuring cup: Helps measure out the 1 cup of bbq sauce accurately.

• Pan: Useful for toasting the slider buns if you prefer not to use a toaster.

• Toaster: An alternative to the pan for toasting the slider buns.

• Tongs: Useful for handling the hot tempeh slices and placing them on the buns.

• Cutting board: Provides a surface for slicing the tempeh if it isn't pre-sliced.

• Knife: Essential for slicing the tempeh if it comes in a block.

• Mixing bowl: Optional, for mixing the coleslaw if you decide to make it fresh.

• Serving plate: For assembling and serving the finished sliders.

Pre-slice the tempeh: Slice the tempeh ahead of time and store it in the fridge to save prep time.

Use store-bought coleslaw: Opt for pre-made coleslaw to cut down on preparation.

Toast buns together: Toast all slider buns at once in the oven instead of individually in a pan.

Simmer in advance: Cook the tempeh in bbq sauce earlier in the day and reheat when ready to assemble.

Multi-task: While the tempeh is cooking, prepare other ingredients or set the table to maximize efficiency.