Vegan Tempeh Bacon Recipe (2024)

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5 from 4 votes

35 minutes minutes

by Marly

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This tempeh bacon recipe creates crispy and delicious veggie bacon you can make at home. Add this smoky goodness to your favorite sandwiches, salads, and veggie burgers. It’s simple to make and adds delicious flavor to so many vegan dishes.

Vegan Tempeh Bacon Recipe (1)

I know bacon is one of those things that’s hard for people to give up when they make changes to their diet. Going vegetarian can be tricky, especially at the beginning. I always tell people to have some self grace during the transition. It can be rough, but taste buds are highly malleable.

The thing is, we should be avoiding processed meats like bacon because evidence shows even minimal amounts have health risks. In fact, some studies indicate the higher the intake of processed meats the higher the health risks.

What’s a bacon lover to do?

Well, the good news is, there are lots of great vegetarian and vegan bacon options these days. Let’s start with this tasty tempeh bacon recipe.

Tempeh bacon is my favorite ingredient in this Egg-Free Quiche.

Table of Contents show

Key Ingredients for Tempeh Bacon

You can find the full printable recipe, including ingredient quantities, below. But first, here are some explanations of ingredients and steps to help you make this recipe perfect every time.

Here are the ingredients you’ll need for this recipe, including substitution ideas:

  • Tempeh — You’ll need one package of tempeh.
  • Soy Sauce — We’ll make a bacon marinade using soy sauce (or use tamari for a gluten-free soy sauce). Substitute Bragg, or coconut aminos.
  • Agave nectar — Adding just a bit of sweetener enhances the caramelization effect and adds a hint of sweetness. Substitute your favorite syrup sweetener, such as maple syrup.
  • Liquid smoke — You can buy liquid smoke next to the BBQ sauces in most grocery stores. It’s a handy ingredient and creates a smoky flavor for vegan bacon.
Vegan Tempeh Bacon Recipe (2)

What is Tempeh?

Tempeh is made from fermented cooked soybeans that are pressed together to create a firm, dense rectangular patty. It holds its shape when cooked (even better than tofu) so it’s a great protein option for a plant-based meal. You’ll notice a strong, nutty flavor out of the package, but it absorbs the flavors it’s cooked with. You can find it at health food stores or even the health food section of some local grocery stores. It keeps in the fridge for a while, so I usually buy 3 to 4 at a time.

How to Make Tempeh Bacon

  1. Cut the tempeh block in half then cut it into thin strips.
  2. Add tempeh strips to a skillet with oil and cook for 3 to 5 minutes on each side.
  3. Pour the smoky-sweet marinade over the tempeh strips and flip them so that they’re evenly coated. Cook until the liquid is absorbed and the strips are browned.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s a more detailed, step-by-step guide for this tempeh bacon recipe.

Step One: Cut the Tempeh

  1. Place the tempeh in the package on a cutting board.
  2. Use a sharp knife to cut the package in half then remove the tempeh.
    Vegan Tempeh Bacon Recipe (3)
  3. You now have two rectangular blocks of tempeh. Cut those lengthwise into thin strips, but not so thin that they fall apart.
Vegan Tempeh Bacon Recipe (4)

Sometimes I recommend steaming tempeh, but not with this recipe.

Step Two: Brown Tempeh Strips

  1. Place a skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Let the oil heat up for a minute or so.
  2. Use tongs to add tempeh strips. You may need to do this in batches, depending on the size of your skillet.
    Vegan Tempeh Bacon Recipe (5)
  3. Cook the tempeh strips for 3 to 5 minutes on each side, turning them when they’ve reached a golden brown hue.
Vegan Tempeh Bacon Recipe (6)

Step Three: Add Tempeh Bacon Marinade

This is a tasty bacon-flavored sauce that you can add to so many dishes to give it a bacon flavor. Check out my bacon almond slivers as an example.

Here’s how to make it:

  1. Stir together the the soy sauce, syrup, liquid smoke, garlic powder, and water.
  2. Pour the sauce over the cooked tempeh strips. If you’re cooking in batches, be sure to reserve some of the sauce for the second round of tempeh strips.
    Vegan Tempeh Bacon Recipe (7)
  3. Use tongs to flip tempeh strips so that they’re evenly coated.
  4. Cook the strips on both sides until the liquid is absorbed and the strips are browned.

Storage Tips

Allow the tempeh to cool then transfer it to a sealed container and keep refrigerated. It will keep up to 7 days in the fridge. You can also freeze tempeh bacon. Store in a freezer bag or freezer-friendly container for up to 2 months.

Why This Recipe is a Winner

  • Using tamari, a gluten-free soy sauce, makes this recipe both vegan and gluten-free
  • Liquid smoke combined with a sweet syrup is a powerful combination creating a bacon-like flavor
  • Cooking tempeh strips in a skillet is the easiest way to go about making tempeh bacon, because it doesn’t require steaming the tempeh first.
Vegan Tempeh Bacon Recipe (8)

Reader Reviews

★★★★★
It was perfect the first time. I learn so much from you as well! Keep it up great post.

Ghulam

Frequently-Asked Questions

Is tempeh gluten-free?

Tempeh is made by culturing cooked soybeans, meaning it is usually gluten-free. Some tempeh products will add other grains, so be sure to check the label to make sure gluten-free grains were used.

What is liquid smoke?

Liquid smoke is a byproduct made from burning wood. The smoke is condensed and bottled into liquid form, creating a sauce you can add to many dishes to create that distinctive smoky flavor.

Nutritional Information

Yes, the flavor and texture are amazing but wait until you look at the nutritional estimates for this recipe. Even with sweetener added, this recipe can be considered low carb/keto because it only has 5g of carbs per serving. Here are the nutritional estimates per serving:

Calories: 61 Fat: 3g Carbs: 5g Fiber: 1g Protein: 4g Net Carbs: 4g

More Bacon Recipes

I love to serve tempeh bacon on my favorite sandwiches, soups, and salads. Here are some great recipes that can benefit from a generous dose of vegan bacon strips:

Bacon-Flavored Almonds

20 mins total

Vegan Twice-Baked Potatoes

100 mins total

Vegan Potato Soup

50 mins total

Vegan Broccoli Salad

25 mins total

Vegan Tempeh Bacon Recipe (13)
Vegan Tempeh Bacon Recipe (14)

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Vegan Tempeh Bacon Recipe (15)

Vegan Tempeh Bacon Recipe (16)

Tempeh Bacon

It's easy to make this tasty tempeh bacon recipe to serve with your favorite veggie burgers, on salads, or even to eat it just plain!

5 from 4 votes

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Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes minutes

Resting Time: 5 minutes minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes minutes

Servings: 12

Calories: 61kcal

Author: Marly McMillen

Ingredients

  • 8 oz package tempeh
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons tamari (or soy sauce)
  • 2 tablespoons agave nectar
  • 3 teaspoons liquid smoke
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons water

Instructions

  • Place the tempeh in the package on a cutting board. Cut the package in half. Remove the tempeh from the packages. You now have two rectangular blocks of tempeh. Cut those lengthwise into thin strips, but not so thin that they fall apart.

  • Place a skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil. Use tongs to add tempeh strips. Cook for 3–5 minutes on each side, turning when the tempeh strips have turned a golden brown and become crispy.

  • In a small bowl combine tamari, agave (or maple syrup), liquid smoke, garlic powder, and water. Stir to combine. Pour this sauce over the tempeh strips. Use tongs to flip tempeh strips so that they're evenly coated. Cook for 2–3 minutes on both sides, until the liquid is absorbed and the strips are browned.

(The products above contain sponsored links to products we use and recommend)

Calories: 61kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 256mg | Potassium: 90mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Calcium: 22mg | Iron: 1mg

The nutrition information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator and should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.

Did you make this recipe?

Leave a rating below then tag @namelymarly on Instagram and hashtag it #namelymarly. I love seeing your creations!

This post was originally published in 2020 and was updated to include new photos, new text, and an updated recipe in 2021.

Vegan Tempeh Bacon Recipe (2024)

FAQs

Is tempeh bacon healthy? ›

Tempeh is a fermented soy product that's a popular vegetarian meat replacement. Whether you're a vegetarian or not, it can be a nutritious addition to your diet. Tempeh is a versatile ingredient that comes with a variety of health benefits. It's high in protein, prebiotics, and a wide array of vitamins and minerals.

Does tempeh bacon taste like bacon? ›

Yes! Tempeh bacon has a bacon-y flavor and chewy texture. The soy sauce lends that salty-savory note, while the sweetness of maple syrup balances it out. Smoked paprika adds the signature smoky flavor you expect from traditional bacon.

What is a vegan substitute for bacon? ›

Vegan bacon substitutes are made from a variety of plant-based ingredients such as tempeh, tofu, seitan, coconut, mushroom, eggplant, carrots, and even rice paper. These ingredients are flavored and seasoned to create a smoky, salty, and savory taste that mimics the flavor and texture of traditional bacon.

How do you make tempeh not taste gross? ›

How to Make Tempeh Taste Good
  1. Reduce bitterness by microwaving or boiling in water for 5 minutes. Start by chopping your tempeh into slices or cubes. ...
  2. Marinate it (and add salt) Treat tempeh like it's meat! ...
  3. Sauté or roast with lots of spices.
Aug 31, 2021

Is tempeh an anti inflammatory? ›

While people with inflammation should generally avoid dairy, soy protein products like tofu and tempeh have been found to reduce pain in joints according to a study from Oklahoma State University. An easy way to add soy to your diet is using soy protein powder.

Can you eat too much tempeh? ›

It's completely safe and healthy to eat up to two to three servings of soy products, such as tempeh, daily,” says Palmer. Of course, if you're allergic or sensitive to soy, you'll want to avoid it.

Can you eat tempeh bacon raw? ›

Tempeh should be cooked before being eaten and should not be eaten raw.

Is Trader Joe's tempeh fermented? ›

Trader Joe's tempeh is a delicious and nutritious plant-based protein option that is perfect for vegetarians and vegans alike. Made from fermented soybeans, tempeh is a great source of protein, fiber, and probiotics.

What are the benefits of tempeh bacon? ›

The Nutritional Benefits of Tempeh Bacon

Tempeh bacon is a good source of protein and fiber. It is also low in fat and calories, making it a healthy option for those who are watching their weight. Tempeh bacon is also a good source of iron and magnesium.

What is the healthiest substitute for bacon? ›

Today we are talking about healthy swaps for bacon, so you can eat it every day!
  • Tempeh Bacon. Before you ride off bacon made from soy beans, hear us out. ...
  • Turkey Bacon. This is a slightly healthier option from your average pork bacon. ...
  • Uncured Bacon. If you're buying bacon, always buy it uncured. ...
  • Mushrooms. ...
  • Coconut.

What tastes like bacon but isn't bacon? ›

  • Hooray Foods' plant-based bacon has less sodium and fat than real bacon but tastes a whole lot like the real stuff. ...
  • The No. ...
  • A heap of uncooked vegan bacon with a waxy crust of congealed coconut oil around each slice. ...
  • Be honest. ...
  • Cooked and crispy Awesomer vegan bacon just before I pulled it from the pan.
Jun 3, 2023

Does vegan bacon taste like real bacon? ›

Thanks to that, Tofurky's tempeh bacon has all of the flavors of bacon: savory, smoky, and a little bit sweet and salty.

Why does tempeh taste weird? ›

But where does the bitter taste that can ruin tempeh recipes come from? According to Home Kitchen Talk, bitterness may build up in tempeh because of too much fermentation or how vinegar was used during tempeh production.

Is tempeh an acquired taste? ›

At its best, the soybean cake is rich and nutty. At its worst, tempeh can be bitter or bland. We grew up eating tempeh and enjoy its earthiness, but for some, it's an acquired taste.

Is tempeh healthier than tofu? ›

When it comes to nutrition, both tofu and tempeh are good protein sources, but tempeh is the winner.

Is lightlife tempeh bacon healthy? ›

Our fermented, organic Smoky Tempeh is a super versatile superfood, with 12g of complete protein per serving. Try it as a bacon alternative on breakfast sandwiches or in wedge salads for a quick, easy, delicious meal.

What is the healthiest bacon to eat? ›

Turkey bacon is likely healthier for you than conventional bacon since it's not red meat. Turkey bacon, however, is still processed meat. Stick to small portions, pair it with nutrient-rich foods, and choose nitrate-free versions if you enjoy turkey bacon and want to keep eating it. U.S. Department of Agriculture.

What is the healthiest option for bacon? ›

Turkey Bacon

This is a slightly healthier option from your average pork bacon. It contains a lot less fat and harmful ingredients than your average bacon. You can also go one step further and buy the low sodium version for an even better alternative!

What is the healthiest bacon meat? ›

If you're looking to start eating healthier, turkey bacon is a great option. Maybe you're looking to cut down on calories or you're trying to reduce your sodium intake. Either way, turkey bacon is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional pork bacon.

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