Smoky Tempeh Bacon

5 from 1 vote

These Smoky Tempeh Bacon slices are savory, crispy, and easy to make. They are the perfect vegan alternative to traditional bacon in sandwiches, salads, and on burgers and breakfast plates.

Prep Time20

Cook Time25

Total Time45

Course: Breakfast and Brunch, Sides

Cuisine: American

Diet: Vegan

Servings:

Calories: 96kcal

Author: Jenn Sebestyen

Equipment

Ingredients

3 tablespoons tamari or liquid aminos or low sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon liquid smoke any flavor
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon chili powder
pinch of cayenne or dash of hot sauce, optional
1 package (8 oz) tempeh

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
Add all the ingredients, except for the tempeh, to a baking dish or large container. Whisk well to combine.
Thinly slice the tempeh horizontally into about ¼ inch thick slices.
Arrange the tempeh slices in the marinade in one even layer. Allow them to soak for at least 20 minutes, but ideally up to 2 hours (or even overnight), flipping them over halfway through to allow both sides to soak up the marinade.
Transfer the marinated slices to the prepared baking sheet spaced out in one even layer. Bake for 15 minutes, carefully flip over each slice, and bake another 10 to 15 minutes until crispy.
Serve hot as a side or add them hot or cold to sandwiches, salads, bowls, etc.

Notes

~ Slice the tempeh thinly, about ¼ inch thick.

~ The longer the tempeh marinates, the better. 20 minutes works, but 2 hours is better. You can even let it marinate in the fridge overnight.

~ Adjust the spices and seasonings to your tastes. Like your bacon really salty? Add more tamari. Like your bacon on the sweeter side? Add an extra tablespoon of maple syrup. Like your bacon with a kick of heat? Add a pinch of cayenne or dash of hot sauce.

~ Arrange the marinated tempeh slices spaced out in an even layer on the baking sheet to ensure they get sufficiently crispy. If they overlap, they will steam instead.

~ Don't forget to flip the slices halfway through the baking time.

~ For a gluten-free option, be sure to buy gluten-free tempeh and use gluten-free tamari.

Nutrition