How to Make Tempeh Bacon: A Delicious Vegan Twist on a Classic

If you’re a vegan or just looking to explore plant-based alternatives, tempeh bacon is a game-changer. With its smoky, savory, and crispy texture, it mimics traditional bacon in all the best ways, but with none of the meat. Plus, tempeh is a nutritious, high-protein, and fiber-packed option that makes for an excellent meat substitute.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through how to make tempeh bacon at home. Whether you're making it for a breakfast sandwich, salad topping, or just a snack, this recipe is simple, flavorful, and sure to impress.

Ingredients You'll Need:

1 package of tempeh (typically 8 oz)
3 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (for a gluten-free option)
1 tbsp maple syrup or agave nectar
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
1 tbsp liquid smoke (this gives the bacon-like flavor)
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion power

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tempeh:

Start by slicing the tempeh into thin strips. The thinner the slices, the crispier the bacon will be, so aim for slices that are about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick. If you find tempeh too bitter, you can steam the slices for 10 minutes to help mellow the flavor. Just place the tempeh slices in a steamer basket over boiling water and cover for 10 minutes. This step is optional, but it does make the tempeh more tender.

2. Make the Marinade:

In a bowl, combine the soy sauce (or tamari), maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, liquid smoke, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed. This marinade will infuse the tempeh with all the flavors of traditional bacon — smoky, salty, and slightly sweet.

3. Marinate the Tempeh:

Place the sliced tempeh in a shallow dish or a resealable bag, and pour the marinade over it. Make sure the tempeh slices are evenly coated. Allow the tempeh to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator. The longer you marinate it, the more intense the flavor will be.

4. Cook the Tempeh Bacon:

Line your tempeh bacon on the tray to be cooked. Let them cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they become golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning. You may need to cook them in batches, depending on the size of your pan.

5. Serve:

Now it’s time to enjoy! You can serve your tempeh bacon as is, or chop it up and add it to a variety of dishes, such as:

Tempeh Bacon Breakfast Sandwich: Add avocado, tomato, and your favorite sauce between two slices of whole-grain bread for a satisfying breakfast or brunch.
Tempeh Bacon Salad: Crumble tempeh bacon over a salad for an added crunch and smoky flavor.
Tempeh Bacon Tacos: Use tempeh bacon as a taco filling along with some sautéed veggies and guacamole.
Potatoe Soup with Tempeh Bacon: Crumble your tempeh bacon onto your favorite plant based potato soup.

Tips for Perfect Tempeh Bacon:

Adjust the Marinade: Don’t hesitate to tweak the marinade to your taste. Want a sweeter flavor? Add more maple syrup. Prefer a spicier version? Throw in some cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
Make It Crispy: The key to achieving a bacon-like crunch is to make sure you don’t overcrowd the pan. If the slices are too close together, they’ll steam instead of crisping up.
Storage: Leftover tempeh bacon can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat it in a skillet or in the oven for the best texture.
Use the Marinade as a Sauce: If you have extra marinade left over, don’t throw it away! You can use it as a dipping sauce or drizzle it over cooked vegetables, rice, or pasta for an extra burst of flavor.

Why You’ll Love Tempeh Bacon:

Tempeh bacon isn’t just for vegans — it’s for anyone looking for a healthier, plant-based alternative to the traditional crispy, savory bacon we all know and love. Not only is it lower in fat and cholesterol-free, but it’s also packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients like B vitamins and iron, thanks to the fermented soybeans in tempeh.

Plus, making your own tempeh bacon at home means you can skip the artificial additives and preservatives found in many store-bought versions.

Final Thoughts:

Making tempeh bacon at home is an easy and rewarding way to enjoy a vegan alternative to bacon. With just a few ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create crispy, smoky, and flavorful strips of tempeh that can be used in a variety of dishes. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast or using it as a topping, it’s a tasty and nutritious option that will satisfy your cravings while supporting a plant-based lifestyle.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and start cooking up some delicious tempeh bacon today! Let us know what you think.