Homemade Tempeh Bacon

How to Make Homemade Tempeh Bacon -- An easy vegan recipe made in 15 minutes, no oven, or marinating time required! The perfect smoky and crispy addition to breakfast, a sandwich, salad, and more!

Vegan Bacon. An oxymoron? An insult? Stroke of genius?

I'll let you take your side. I'll be here eating my vegan bacon until you decide how your feel.

What makes this tempeh bacon delicious & healthy

• tempeh
• tamari or soy sauce
• apple cider vinegar
• maple syrup
• smoked paprika
• garlic powder
• black pepper
• liquid smoke (optional)
• cumin

How to make this tempeh bacon

In a shallow dish, combine 2 tablespoons tamari, or soy sauce (if not strictly gluten-free), 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon maple syrup, ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, 2 teaspoons liquid smoke (optional ingredient), and ½ teaspoon cumin.

Thinly slice 1 (8 ounce) package of tempeh, and add as many slices to the bowl of prepared marinade. Let sit for 1-2 minutes, and toss to coat.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat, and spray with cooking spray. Fit as many pieces of tempeh (usually about 4-5) in the pan, cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned and crispy. Repeat the process until all tempeh is cooked, and discard marinade.

Transfer cooked tempeh to a wire cooling rack or towel-lined plate until ready to serve.

Pro Tips:

• Don't overcrowd the pan too much. It will be hard to flip the tempeh, and it won't be as crispy.
• Add the liquid smoke if you like your bacon extra smoky!
• Try slice the tempeh as thin as you can for a crisper texture.

FAQs

Can you freeze tempeh bacon?

Yes! The tempeh won't be crispy once it is thawed, but it can be frozen, and re-crisped in a pan after thawing. Store in freezer bags in single layers, and make sure the tempeh bacon is completely cooled before freezing.

How long does the tempeh bacon last?

After cooking, it should last 3-4 days in the refrigerator, but has the best texture when enjoyed directly after cooking.

Money-Saving Tips for this Tempeh recipe

Shop sales. Be on the lookout for sales on tempeh to maximize savings.
Buy in bulk. Purchase items you use frequently like tamari, maple syrup, or spices in bulk for a most-effective option.

more tempeh recipes:

Vegan Tempeh Taco Bowls
Smoky Tempeh Stuffed Acorn Squash
Vegan Tempeh Mushroom Bourguignon

Did you make this recipe? Leave me a comment and a rate to let me know how it came out!

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Inspired by Simple Vegan Blog