Craving a plant-based bacon alternative that'll make your taste buds dance? Get ready to revolutionize your breakfast and meal prep with our mind-blowing Smoky Maple Tempeh Bacon! This vegan sensation delivers all the crispy, smoky, sweet goodness of traditional bacon without any animal products. Whether you're a committed vegan, a health-conscious foodie, or just someone looking to shake up your culinary routine, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz tempeh
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp liquid smoke
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Remove tempeh from packaging and slice into thin, uniform strips approximately 1/8 inch thick. For best results, slice against the grain to ensure even texture and maximum flavor absorption.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together maple syrup, soy sauce, liquid smoke, and smoked paprika until thoroughly combined. This marinade will create the signature smoky and sweet flavor profile.
- Place tempeh strips into the marinade, ensuring each piece is completely coated. Allow tempeh to marinate for at least 10 minutes, or ideally 30 minutes to 1 hour for deeper flavor penetration. If time permits, cover and refrigerate during marinating.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking to achieve a perfect crispy texture.
- Carefully place marinated tempeh strips into the hot skillet, arranging them in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until edges become crisp and golden brown.
- Remove tempeh bacon from skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil. The strips should be slightly crisp with a glossy, caramelized appearance.
- Serve immediately while warm. Tempeh bacon can be enjoyed as a breakfast side, in sandwiches, salads, or as a flavorful garnish.
Tips
- Slice Precision: Use a sharp knife and cut tempeh strips as uniformly as possible to ensure even cooking and consistent texture.
- Marinating Magic: While 10 minutes of marinating works, letting the tempeh soak for 30-60 minutes will dramatically enhance flavor depth.
- Heat Control: Use medium-high heat to achieve that perfect crispy exterior without burning. Watch your skillet closely.
- No Overcrowding: Cook tempeh strips in a single layer to ensure each piece gets crispy and caramelized edges.
- Storage Tip: If you have leftovers, store in an airtight container and reheat in a skillet for 1-2 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with adding garlic powder or a touch of cayenne for extra kick in your marinade.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg