Best Vegan Tempeh Bacon Recipe for Crispy Delicious Flavor

Looking for a delicious, smoky, and crispy vegan alternative to traditional bacon? Our best vegan tempeh bacon recipe is here to satisfy your cravings without compromising your plant-based lifestyle.

Tempeh, a fermented soybean cake, offers a fantastic texture that crisps beautifully in the pan, making it the perfect canvas for bold, smoky flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply exploring plant-based options, this recipe is easy to follow and packed with flavor.

This tempeh bacon is ideal for breakfast plates, sandwiches, salads, or even as a topping on your favorite vegan burgers. The marinade combines classic bacon elements—smokiness, saltiness, and a touch of sweetness—to create a mouthwatering experience.

Plus, it’s made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Ready to elevate your vegan cooking?

Let’s dive into this irresistibly tasty tempeh bacon recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan tempeh bacon recipe is a game-changer for anyone who misses the distinctive flavor and crunch of bacon but wants to avoid animal products. Here’s why it stands out:

• Rich smoky flavor: Achieved with liquid smoke and smoked paprika for that authentic bacon taste.
• Perfectly crispy texture: Thinly sliced tempeh crisps up nicely in the skillet or oven.
• Nutritious and filling: Tempeh is high in protein and fiber, making this a satisfying addition to your meals.
• Versatile: Use it in BLTs, salads, wraps, or as a savory snack.
• Easy to customize: Adjust sweetness, spice, or smokiness to your liking.

Ingredients

• 8 oz tempeh, sliced thinly (about 1/8 inch thick)
• 3 tbsp soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free option
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or agave nectar
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp liquid smoke
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil for frying

Equipment

• Sharp knife or mandoline for slicing tempeh thinly
• Mixing bowl for marinade
• Shallow dish or ziplock bag for marinating
• Non-stick skillet or frying pan
• Spatula or tongs for flipping tempeh
• Paper towels or cooling rack for draining excess oil

Instructions

1. Slice the tempeh: Using a sharp knife or mandoline, cut the tempeh block into very thin strips, about 1/8 inch thick. Thinner slices will crisp better and absorb more marinade.
2. Prepare the marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, liquid smoke, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Marinate the tempeh: Place the tempeh slices in a shallow dish or ziplock bag. Pour the marinade over and toss gently to coat all pieces evenly. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor.
4. Heat the oil: Warm the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
5. Cook the tempeh: Lay the marinated tempeh strips in the hot skillet in a single layer. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until crisp and caramelized. Avoid overcrowding the pan—cook in batches if necessary.
6. Drain excess oil: Transfer cooked tempeh bacon to a plate lined with paper towels or a cooling rack to drain any excess oil.
7. Serve warm: Enjoy immediately or let cool slightly and store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra smoky kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chipotle powder to the marinade.”

• Make it crispier: Bake the marinated tempeh on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Sweeten it up: Increase the maple syrup to 2 tablespoons for a sweeter, candied bacon flavor.
• Try different oils: Coconut oil adds a subtle richness and helps with browning.
• Spice variations: Add a dash of liquid hot sauce or smoked cayenne for heat.
• Use tamari: For gluten-free tempeh bacon, swap soy sauce for tamari.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan tempeh bacon is incredibly versatile and pairs well with so many dishes. Here are some tasty ideas to get you started:

• Layer it in a classic BLT sandwich with fresh lettuce and tomato on toasted bread.
• Toss crumbled tempeh bacon over a crisp kale or spinach salad for a smoky crunch.
• Add strips to a tofu scramble or vegan breakfast burrito for extra protein and flavor.
• Top your favorite vegan burger with tempeh bacon, avocado, and vegan mayo.
• Use it as a flavorful garnish on soups, like a creamy vegan potato soup or a hearty chili.

For more delicious vegan recipes, check out our Costco Vegan Mushroom Stew Recipe or try the savory Collard Green Casserole Recipes to complement your plant-based meals.

Conclusion

Creating the best vegan tempeh bacon at home is easier than you might think, and the results are incredibly satisfying. This recipe brings together the perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors with a delightful crispy texture.

Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking to reduce your meat consumption, tempeh bacon offers a flavorful and nutritious alternative that elevates any meal.

By using simple ingredients and a straightforward method, you can whip up a batch in under an hour and enjoy it throughout the week. Plus, you can easily customize the marinade to suit your taste preferences.

Don’t forget to explore other delicious recipes on our site, like the indulgent Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe for dessert or the comforting Chicken Salad Recipe Willow Tree (with vegan substitutes) for a wholesome meal.

Happy cooking and enjoy your plant-powered bacon bliss!

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