Tempeh Bacon: The Smoky Vegan Delight That Will Revolutionize Your Meals

Prepare to be seduced by the rich, smoky flavor of this vegan tempeh bacon. Perfect for elevating any meal—whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner—this delicious plant-based alternative to traditional bacon will leave you craving more.

Smoky Tempeh: A Game-Changer on Your Plate

Bacon might be a fan favorite at the table, but it’s also known for its health risks. The chemicals involved in bacon production have been linked to an increased risk of cancer, and processed meats have even been classified as carcinogens by the WHO. So why bring that to the table when you can enjoy a healthier, tastier alternative?

Let me introduce you to the solution: Vegan Tempeh Bacon. This smoky, savory delight is not only much better for your health but is also loaded with fiber, probiotics, and essential nutrients. Say goodbye to traditional bacon, and welcome the vibrant world of plant-based alternatives.

The marinade is simple, yet incredibly flavorful. It’s made with just a few basic ingredients and takes under five minutes to prepare. The beauty of tempeh lies in its ability to absorb flavors, making it a perfect canvas for mimicking the taste and texture of real bacon. Craving pulled pork on a vegan diet? Try my vegan pulled jackfruit, or if you’re in the mood for something crunchy, don’t miss my Vegan Buffalo Wings made from seitan and oyster mushrooms!

Tempeh: The Unsung Hero of Vegan Cooking

Let’s talk about tempeh—this versatile ingredient is made from fermented soybeans and serves as a fantastic substitute for bacon. Packed with protein, vitamins, and dietary fiber, tempeh is a nutritious powerhouse. It’s also rich in vegan probiotics, making it a great addition to a plant-based diet.

If you’ve never worked with tempeh before, don’t worry—it’s easy to use! Whether you’re substituting it for ground beef in my Tempeh Vegan Taco Meat recipe or transforming it into smoky bacon, tempeh is always up to the task.

How to Make Vegan Tempeh Bacon

This recipe is one of the easiest you’ll ever try. It uses my signature Smoky Tempeh Marinade, which takes only minutes to whip up. Here’s all you need:

• Tempeh

• Soy sauce

• Sesame oil

• Maple syrup

• Sriracha

• Smoked paprika

• Garlic powder

• Salt & pepper

• (Optional) 1 teaspoon Marmite

Combine all ingredients—except the tempeh—in a bowl, and save 3 tablespoons of the marinade for serving. Add the tempeh slices and coat them evenly. Let the tempeh marinate in the fridge for 20-60 minutes.

Once marinated, heat some olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat and cook the tempeh in batches, about 5 minutes on each side, until it turns golden brown. Drizzle with the reserved marinade and enjoy the smoky, crispy goodness!

Ways to Use Vegan Tempeh Bacon

The beauty of this tempeh bacon is how it can elevate everyday dishes. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Start your day with a plate of vegan scrambled eggs, vegan bacon, and a slice of whole grain toast.

• For something fancier, try a smoky tempeh bacon Benedict with poached vegan eggs and a drizzle of hollandaise sauce on a toasted English muffin.

• Make a mouthwatering Vegan BLT with tempeh bacon.

• Leftover tempeh? No problem! Crumble it and sprinkle it over a baked potato for a quick, satisfying vegan lunch.

• Top a creamy baked potato soup or vegan corn chowder with crumbled tempeh bacon for extra flavor.

• Get creative and make a smoky tempeh rice bowl for a wholesome meal.

Cook’s Tips

This recipe is perfect for batch cooking and keeps in the fridge for up to a month (just store the marinade separately). Marinate the tempeh ahead of time—24 hours works great! For an alternative cooking method, you can also bake the tempeh at 350°F (180°C) for 20 minutes.

Recipe Variations

• Swap sesame oil for avocado oil or any other neutral oil.

• Use agave syrup in place of maple syrup.

• Explore more ways to cook tempeh with my ultimate guide.

Whether you’re looking for a healthier alternative to bacon or simply want to try something new, this smoky tempeh bacon recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the delicious, smoky flavors and indulge in a guilt-free treat!