Slice the tempeh block in half and then into ½” by 3” pieces.
In a shallow bowl, mix all marinade ingredients excluding cornstarch.
Add tempeh to the marinade and let it sit for 20-30 minutes. For a more intense flavor, leave overnight. Reserve leftover marinade for sauce. Note: if marinating overnight, the tempeh may absorb all of the marinade, so none will be left for the sauce. If this happens, see the notes below!
For pan frying: Heat 1 tbsp of neutral oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add marinated tempeh and pan-fry for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. This could take longer if the tempeh is very cold.
For air frying: Preheat the air fryer to 380F. Line the basket with parchment paper and cook tempeh for 10-13 minutes, flipping halfway through.
To prepare the sauce: Remove the fried tempeh from the pan. Reduce heat to low and add the reserved marinade. Once it simmers, stir in the cornstarch until well combined. Cook for 1-2 minutes until thickened, then toss with the fried tempeh.
Serve the tempeh over coconut lime rice, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve with your favorite vegetables.
