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The Flexitarian » Recipe » Tempeh Bacon

Tempeh Bacon

5 from 1 vote

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Are you looking for a delicious and healthy alternative to bacon? Try this tempeh bacon! This plant-based option is packed with protein and flavour. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. 

Tempeh Bacon

Smoky & Crispy Tempeh Bacon: A Delicious Plant-Based Alternative

Looking for a tasty and healthy alternative to bacon? This tempeh bacon is a fantastic plant-based option that’s packed with protein, full of flavour, and wonderfully versatile. With its smoky, savoury taste and satisfying texture, it’s a great way to enjoy that crispy, salty bacon-like experience without the meat.

Perfect for any meal of the day, tempeh bacon can be served in so many ways. Enjoy it on its own, as a side to beans or vegetables, as a salad topping or simply as a tasty addition to burgers, wraps or sandwiches like this classic and delicious Vegan BLT Sandwich.

Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just looking to cut down on meat, tempeh bacon is a delicious and nutritious alternative. Once you try it, you will love how easy it is to make and how incredibly tasty it can be!

Alternatives To Tempeh Bacon

There are plenty of ways to make vegan bacon at home, using everything from aubergines, tofu, mushrooms, coconut, banana peel, or even rice paper. But tempeh is one of my absolute favourites. Not only is it packed with plant-based protein, but it also has a rich, hearty texture that works perfectly when marinated and cooked until crispy. The tempeh soaks up all the smoky, savoury flavours of the marinade, giving you a satisfying and flavourful bite every time.

Other Tempeh Recipes To Try

  • Corn and Potato Chowder (with Tempeh Bacon)
  • General Tso’s Tempeh (with Cauliflower Rice)
  • Green Bean Salad with Grilled Corn & Smoky Tempeh

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

In this post

  • Smoky & Crispy Tempeh Bacon: A Delicious Plant-Based Alternative
  • Alternatives To Tempeh Bacon
  • Other Tempeh Recipes To Try
  • What Is Tempeh?
  • How To Make Tempeh Bacon
    • Step 1: Slice The Tempeh
    • Step 2: Fry The Tempeh
    • Step 3: Prepare The BBQ-flavoured Sauce
    • Step 4: Cook The Tempeh
    • Step 5: Enjoy Your Tempeh Bacon
  • Condiments And Sauces To Serve With This Tempeh Bacon
  • Frequently Asked Questions About This Tempeh Bacon
  • Other Things You Might Like

What Is Tempeh?

Tempeh is a plant-based protein source made from fermented soybeans. It originated in Indonesia and has been a staple in Indonesian cuisine for centuries. Tempeh is known for its nutty flavour and firm texture, making it a popular meat substitute in vegetarian and vegan diets. It is firmer than tofu, making it the perfect plant-based substitute for this vegan tempeh bacon.

What is Tempeh

You can buy tempeh in supermarkets or health stores. You will find it either in the refrigerated or frozen aisles. Unlike tofu, it does not need to be pressed and it is best to eat it cooked.

Tempeh bacon is a tasty and healthy alternative to traditional bacon. Follow these simple steps to make your own at home.

How To Make Tempeh Bacon

Step 1: Slice The Tempeh

First, you need to cut the tempeh into thin slices (or bacon bits).

Tempeh Bacon

Step 2: Fry The Tempeh

Heat some vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium to high heat. Fry the tempeh slices until golden all over.  Depending on the size of your pan you might have to do this in batches, setting aside the cooked tempeh on a plate lined with some kitchen towel.

Step 3: Prepare The BBQ-flavoured Sauce

In the meantime, you can prepare the sauce by mixing together some vegetable oil, soy sauce, maple syrup, liquid smoke, smoked paprika and garlic powder.  I like to use hickory liquid smoke which has a really lovely BBQ flavour.

Step 4: Cook The Tempeh


Once the tempeh slices are cooked, place them all together in the frying pan. Pour the sauce and, stirring often, cook over medium heat until the liquid has evaporated and the tempeh slices are coated all over.

Cooking tempeh bacon
Cooked Tempeh

Step 5: Enjoy Your Tempeh Bacon

Eat the tempeh bacon straightaway or keep it for later.

It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and can be reheated in the microwave or in a pan. It is important to keep it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.

Condiments And Sauces To Serve With This Tempeh Bacon

  • SIMPLE VEGAN MAYO
  • WATERCRESS MAYO
  • AVOCADO MAYO

Frequently Asked Questions About This Tempeh Bacon

Is tempeh bacon healthier than real bacon?

Tempeh bacon is generally considered a healthier option than traditional bacon because it is lower in saturated fat and cholesterol and is a good source of plant-based protein.

Can tempeh bacon be frozen?

Yes, tempeh bacon can be frozen. Simply wrap it in plastic wrap or foil, place it in an airtight container or freezer bag, and store it in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before using it.

What recipes can I make with tempeh bacon?

You can use tempeh bacon in various recipes, such as BLT sandwiches, salads, pasta dishes, or as a topping for vegan pizzas. It adds a smoky, salty flavour to many dishes.

I hope you enjoy this vegan tempeh bacon recipe as much as we do. If you make this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram!

Tempeh Bacon [vegan] by The Flexitarian

Tempeh Bacon

Looking for a delicious and healthy alternative to bacon? Try tempeh bacon! This plant-based option is packed with protein and flavour. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. 
5 from 1 vote
DieTARY CHOICEDairy-Free Recipes, Egg-Free Recipes, Gluten-Free Recipes, Low Fat Recipes, Nut-Free Recipes, Vegan Recipes
Print Recipe Add to Shopping ListAdd to Shopping List Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes mins
Cook Time 10 minutes mins
Total Time 15 minutes mins
Course Sides
Cuisine American
Servings 20 rashers
Calories 29 kcal

Equipment

1 frying pan

Disclaimer: the equipment list above includes affiliate links to products I use and like.

Ingredients
 
 

  • 225 g tempeh
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil +extra for frying
  • 60 ml soy sauce
  • 2 Tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 ½ tsp hickory liquid smoke
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
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Instructions
 

  • Slice the tempeh into thin slices. You should have around 20 rashers.
    225 g tempeh
  • Prepare the sauce: Mix together the vegetable oil, soy sauce, maple syrup, liquid smoke, smoked paprika, and garlic. Set aside.
    1 tablespoon vegetable oil, 60 ml soy sauce, 2 Tbsp maple syrup, 1 ½ tsp hickory liquid smoke, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Heat some vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium to high heat. Fry the tempeh slices until golden all over. Depending on the size of your pan you might have to do this in batches, setting aside the cooked tempeh on a plate lined with some kitchen towel.
  • Once the tempeh slices are cooked, place them all together in the frying pan. Pour the sauce and, stirring often, cook over medium heat until the liquid has evaporated and the tempeh slices are coated all over.
  • Remove from the pan and eat straight away.

Nutrition

Serving: 2rashersCalories: 29kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 2gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 0.3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.4gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.3gSodium: 166mgPotassium: 60mgFiber: 0.1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 50IUVitamin C: 0.002mgCalcium: 16mgIron: 0.4mg
Keyword tempeh

Find this recipe online:

Tempeh Bacon

https://theflexitarian.co.uk/recipe-items/tempeh-bacon/

DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE? Leave a review in the comments below! or share it on Instagram tagging @theflexitarianuk.

I cannot wait to see your posts!

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  • Tofurky Launches Protein-Packed Vegan Sandwiches
  • Vegan Aquafaba Mayo
  • WHO Links Processed Meat and Red Meat To Cancer
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Recipe June 19, 2023 · Created by: The Flexitarian Leave a Comment

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