Vegan Bacon Recipe

Coconut flakes: Large flakes of coconut are the base of this recipe, giving a crispy texture when baked.

Soy sauce: Adds a salty, savory flavor that helps mimic bacon’s taste.

Maple syrup: Brings a touch of sweetness to balance the smoky and salty flavors.

Liquid smoke: Gives the coconut flakes a smoky flavor that’s essential for the bacon effect.

Smoked paprika: Adds a smoky, slightly spicy flavor to deepen the taste.

Garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor that complements the other seasonings.

One of the most important steps in this Vegan Bacon Recipe is making sure the coconut flakes are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet before you put them in the oven. Here’s why that matters and how to do it right:

1. Take your baking sheet and line it with parchment paper so the flakes don’t stick.
2. When you add the marinated coconut flakes to the sheet, try to spread them out evenly so they’re not piled on top of each other.
3. If the flakes are too close or overlapping, they won’t get crispy all over. Instead, they might steam and stay soft in some spots.
4. Give the flakes some space so the hot air in the oven can reach each piece and make them golden and crunchy.

Doing this step well makes your vegan bacon taste better because you get that perfect crispy texture that’s so satisfying. It also helps the smoky, sweet flavors from the marinade stick to each flake without getting soggy.

I remember the first time I made this, I just dumped the flakes on the sheet without spreading them out. When I took them out of the oven, some were crispy, but others were still chewy and kind of mushy. After that, I learned to be patient and spread them carefully. It’s a small step that makes a big difference! Plus, stirring halfway through baking helps make sure every flake gets some heat and color.

So, take a little extra time to spread the flakes out and stir them once while baking. Your vegan bacon will thank you with extra crunch and flavor!

• large flakes coconut flakes - Substitute with rice paper: Rice paper can be cut into strips and marinated to achieve a similar crispy texture when baked or fried.

• soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative that provides a similar umami flavor.

• maple syrup - Substitute with agave nectar: Agave nectar offers a similar sweetness and consistency, making it a good alternative for vegan recipes.

• liquid smoke - Substitute with smoked sea salt: Smoked sea salt can provide a smoky flavor without the liquid form, though you may need to adjust the salt content in the recipe.

• smoked paprika - Substitute with chipotle powder: Chipotle powder adds a smoky and slightly spicy flavor, making it a good substitute for smoked paprika.

• garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder can provide a similar depth of flavor, though it will have a slightly different taste profile.

• Allow the vegan bacon to cool completely before storing. This helps maintain its crispiness and prevents any condensation from making it soggy.
• Store the vegan bacon in an airtight container. A glass jar or a plastic container with a tight-fitting lid works perfectly.
• Keep the container in a cool, dry place if you plan to consume the vegan bacon within a few days. For longer storage, place it in the refrigerator.
• If refrigerating, the vegan bacon can last up to a week. Ensure the container is sealed well to prevent any moisture from getting in.
• For freezing, lay the vegan bacon strips in a single layer on a baking sheet and place it in the freezer for about an hour. This prevents the pieces from sticking together.
• Once frozen, transfer the vegan bacon to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label it with the date to keep track of its freshness.
• When ready to use, you can reheat the vegan bacon directly from the freezer. Place it on a baking sheet and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until crispy.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the vegan bacon in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and to regain its crisp texture.
• Avoid microwaving the vegan bacon as it may turn soggy instead of crispy.
• Enjoy your vegan bacon as a topping for soups, salads, or in your favorite sandwiches and wraps.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Spread the leftover vegan bacon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of crispiness.
  4. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, as coconut flakes can toast quickly.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the leftover vegan bacon to the skillet in a single layer.
  3. Stir occasionally, cooking for 2-3 minutes until it’s crispy and heated through.
  4. Remove from the skillet and let it cool slightly before serving.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a paper towel on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Spread the vegan bacon evenly on the paper towel.
  3. Microwave on high for 20-30 seconds, checking for crispiness.
  4. If needed, microwave in additional 10-second intervals until it reaches the desired texture.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Place the vegan bacon in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  3. Air fry for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking.
  4. Check for crispiness and cook for an additional minute if necessary.

• Oven: Used to bake the coconut flakes until they are crispy and golden brown.

• Baking sheet: A flat surface to spread the coconut flakes on for baking.

• Parchment paper: Lining the baking sheet to prevent the coconut flakes from sticking and to make cleanup easier.

• Mixing bowl: To combine the soy sauce, maple syrup, liquid smoke, smoked paprika, and garlic powder, and to toss the coconut flakes in the marinade.

• Measuring cups: To measure out the coconut flakes accurately.

• Measuring spoons: To measure out the soy sauce, maple syrup, liquid smoke, smoked paprika, and garlic powder accurately.

• Spatula: To stir the coconut flakes halfway through baking to ensure even crisping.

• Cooling rack: To let the vegan bacon cool completely before serving.

Prepare the marinade ahead: Mix the soy sauce, maple syrup, liquid smoke, smoked paprika, and garlic powder in advance and store in the fridge.

Use pre-measured ingredients: Measure out the coconut flakes and other ingredients beforehand to streamline the process.

Line the baking sheet: Always have parchment paper ready to avoid scrubbing the baking sheet later.

Set a timer: Use a timer to remind you to stir the coconut flakes halfway through baking.

Cool on a rack: Transfer the vegan bacon to a cooling rack immediately to speed up the cooling process.