Delicious Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry for a Healthy Meal

I still remember the moment I finally got my Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry just right. It wasn’t the first time I made it—far from it—but after a few tries tweaking the sauce and cooking time, that perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory clicked. This Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry quickly became a staple in my weeknight meals because it’s simple, comforting, and packed with flavor without demanding hours in the kitchen. When I whip it up, my kitchen fills with the kind of cozy aroma that makes everyone gather around the stove. That’s what I love most about this recipe—how it turns simple ingredients into something memorable.

Over time, this Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry has felt like a little kitchen celebration. It’s versatile enough to welcome whatever veggies I have on hand and always ends up colorful and lively on the plate. I often pair it with a bowl of steamed rice or quinoa, turning it into a satisfying meal that even those skeptical about tempeh have come to enjoy. It’s a vegetarian stir fry that’s anything but bland.

If you’re like me, sometimes you want a dish that feels special but doesn’t come with a long ingredient list or tricky steps. That’s where this Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry fits perfectly into my baking and cooking life—it’s dependable, joyful, and a little bit surprising in how much it delights. I invite you, dear friends, to try this recipe out. I promise it will become a go-to just like it did for me; a reassuring, tasty dish that brings a smile to your family’s face after a busy day of baking or cooking.

What You’ll Need for This Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry:

Here’s the ingredient list for this Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry. It uses straightforward, easy-to-find items because I believe great recipes start with simple ingredients. This recipe also keeps costs low, making it accessible for everyone’s kitchen.

  • 8 ounces tempeh, cut into bite-sized cubes (You can usually find this in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores or health food stores)
  • 1 large orange, zest and juice (If fresh oranges aren’t available, bottled orange juice works, but fresh zest makes a big difference)
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (Low sodium is a good swap if you want to control saltiness)
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (Maple keeps it vegan, and honey adds a lovely depth if you’re not avoiding animal products)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (You can swap for apple cider vinegar if necessary)
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (Or ½ teaspoon ground ginger if you’re in a pinch)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (Garlic powder can work, but fresh is best here)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil (If that’s not on hand, vegetable or canola oil will do)
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables, like bell peppers, snap peas, carrots, and broccoli florets (Frozen stir-fry vegetable blends are a quick shortcut)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (This thickens the orange sauce nicely)
  • Optional garnishes: sesame seeds, chopped green onions

Top down view of raw ingredients laid out for Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry on white marble surface

Quick prep tip: I like to zest and juice the orange first, so the fresh aroma infuses the kitchen while I chop. Also, you can prepare the tempeh cubes ahead and keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days, which saves time on busy evenings.

This Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry is affordable because tempeh and fresh vegetables are budget-friendly staples. You don’t need fancy ingredients, just a bit of fresh produce and pantry essentials. I always add a little extra orange zest to the sauce to make the flavor pop. That zing is what keeps me coming back to this Asian style tempeh dish.

How to Make This Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry:

Let me guide you through making this Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry step by step. From start to finish, it takes about 30 minutes, making it a great option for weeknights when time feels tight but your tastebuds want a treat.

  1. Press and cube your tempeh. If you haven’t pressed your tempeh before, just wrap it in a clean towel and press gently with a heavy pan for about 10 minutes to remove excess moisture. This helps it absorb the orange sauce better.
  2. Prepare the orange sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange zest, juice, soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and garlic. This orange sauce tempeh mixture is the heart of the dish, balancing sweet and tangy notes.
  3. Sauté the tempeh. Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the tempeh cubes, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they get golden and crispy on all sides. This step gives the tempeh a lovely texture before the glaze.
  4. Cook the vegetables. Remove the tempeh from the skillet, then add your mixed vegetables. Stir-fry for around 4-5 minutes until they’re tender but still vibrant and crisp. I love adding snap peas and colorful bell peppers because they brighten up this vegetarian stir fry.
  5. Combine and glaze. Pour the orange sauce over the veggies, stirring quickly as you add the cornstarch slurry. Return the cooked tempeh to the pan and toss everything gently. Your kitchen will smell heavenly as this Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry thickens in just a couple of minutes.
  6. Finishing touches. If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of water to loosen it. Taste and adjust any flavors—sometimes I like a tiny extra drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of chili flakes for heat.

While your Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry cooks, it’s the perfect moment to tidy up your space or prepare a simple side like steamed rice or noodles. If your tempeh pieces are nicely golden and the sauce is shiny and coating your vegetables, you’re on track for a delicious meal. If you want to save time on busy days, frozen veggie mixes work beautifully here and still keep that fresh taste.

Lessons from making this recipe many times: don’t rush the tempeh crisping, and trust the sauce to thicken in minutes once the cornstarch goes in. The balance in the orange sauce tempeh is where the magic happens.

Serving Your Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry:

Serving this Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry is one of my favorite parts; it really comes alive on the plate.

I like to serve it over steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa to soak up every bit of that orange glaze. Sometimes, I’d top it with toasted sesame seeds and a handful of chopped green onions for a fresh crunch and an inviting look. A squeeze of fresh lime on the side adds a lovely zesty finish that brightens the whole dish.

This orange-glazed tempeh vegetable plate is perfect for casual weeknight dinners or even as a colorful lunch bowl when packed ahead. It’s one of those dishes that guests often ask for again, especially because it feels cozy and nourishing without being heavy.

Leftovers? They reheat wonderfully and can even be turned into wraps or served over salad greens for an easy next-day meal. I’ve tried turning my Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry into a protein-packed lunchbox treat by tossing it with some soba noodles and a handful of fresh herbs—total winner!

Seasonally, I’ve swapped in whatever produce feels fresh—like crisp asparagus in spring or hearty baby bok choy in winter—making this dish adaptable and always exciting. Friends and family always note how this Asian style tempeh dish manages to be so flavorful while staying light and healthy, making it a true crowd-pleaser in my kitchen.

If you enjoy this Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry, you might love exploring a few more flavorful ideas such as Orange Tempeh Stir Fry (Vegan Orange Chicken) – Emilie Eats for a quick twist or Orange Pan-glazed Tempeh Recipe | 101 Cookbooks for an alternative sauce approach.

Slight angle close up of finished Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry with glossy orange sauce

Common Questions About This Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry:

I often get asked some great questions about this Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry, and it’s my pleasure to share what I’ve learned from baking and cooking it many times.

Can I make this Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the tempeh cubes and sauce separately up to a day in advance. When ready to eat, quickly stir-fry the veggies and combine everything. It reheats wonderfully too—just add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much in the fridge.

What’s a good substitute for tempeh here?

If tempeh isn’t your favorite, extra firm tofu is an easy substitute. Press it thoroughly and cook as you would tempeh. Just keep in mind the texture will be a bit softer but the orange sauce tempeh flavor stays just as delicious.

How can I adjust this Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry for different pan sizes?

If you have a smaller pan, cook the tempeh and veggies in batches to avoid overcrowding, which helps get better browning. For larger pans or woks, you can stir-fry everything at once for quicker cooking.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce substitute in place of regular soy sauce. This keeps your Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry friendly for gluten-sensitive friends.

What if I want it spicier?

Adding a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to the orange sauce tempeh mix gives extra heat without overpowering the flavors.

Can frozen vegetables be used?

Definitely. Frozen stir-fry vegetable mixes work well, especially when you’re short on time. Just thaw them slightly and adjust cooking times so they don’t get mushy.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to keep that glossy orange sauce perfect.

I’ve also seen readers suggest swapping maple syrup for agave nectar or adding fresh herbs like cilantro right before serving to give a fresh twist. These small changes can make your Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry feel new every time you bake it.

For more ideas, you might enjoy checking out this simple tempeh stir fry from Meatless Monday or my own take on cranberry-orange scones for a sweet breakfast break.

Final Thoughts on This Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry:

This Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry has truly found a special place in my recipe collection because it balances simplicity with rich, inviting flavors. It’s my go-to for when I want something quick but satisfying, and it never fails to bring warmth to the table.

My Top Tips for This Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry:

  • Don’t skip pressing your tempeh; it makes all the difference in texture and flavor absorption.
  • Fresh orange zest really brightens the orange sauce tempeh, so add a bit extra if you love zing.
  • Cook tempeh and vegetables separately to keep everything crisp and perfectly glazed.

For variation, I enjoy adding toasted cashews for crunch, swapping out sweet peppers for roasted sweet potatoes, or turning this into a stir fry noodle dish with rice noodles. The version with extra ginger and chili flakes gets requested most often by friends who want a little kick.

I hope you’ll make this Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry your own by tweaking it to your taste and kitchen rhythm. Cooking and baking are about joy and discovery, and this recipe invites you to enjoy both without fuss.

If this recipe brings you even half the comfort and happiness it has to me, I’d say you’re in for a real treat. Happy cooking, friend! Don’t forget to check out my pomegranate glazed lamb chops for a hearty meat option or these cranberry-orange scones for a bakery-style sweet finish to your day.

Here’s to many delightful meals with your Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry!

Print

Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry

Freshly prepared Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry plated on white dish

A vibrant and healthy Orange Glazed Tempeh Stir Fry, combining crispy tempeh with fresh vegetables in a sweet and tangy citrus sauce for a perfect plant-based meal.

  • Author: Belinda Taylor
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 3 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz tempeh, cubed
  • 2 tablespoons orange juice, freshly squeezed
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 1 medium carrot, julienned
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
  • Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, soy sauce, maple syrup, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and minced garlic to make the orange glaze.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the cubed tempeh and cook until golden and crispy on all sides, about 5–7 minutes.
  3. Remove tempeh from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the red bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot. Stir-fry the vegetables for 4–5 minutes until tender-crisp.
  4. Return the tempeh to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the orange glaze over everything and toss to coat evenly.
  5. If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  6. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if using.
  7. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.

Notes

For added crunch, top with chopped peanuts or cashews. You can also customize the veggies based on your preference or what’s in season.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!