Admit it: as a vegetarian or vegan, you have probably smelled bacon cooking and drooled a little bit. All of that greasy, crispy, savory deliciousness looks so inviting, but it really isn’t very good for you… at all.
As it turns out, going veg doesn’t have to mean cutting the enjoyment of bacon out of your life. There are plenty of genius ways to make perfectly vegetarian foods into perfectly good bacon.
1. Portobello Mushroom Bacon
The key to any vegetarian bacon recipe is marinade. This mushroom bacon satisfies those morning cravings with the meaty texture of mushrooms and a sweet and savory marinade that smells as good as it sound. What’s even better is that it cooks like standard bacon.
2. Tofu Bacon
Tofu works well for vegetarian bacon because of how absorbent it is. It will soak up all the bacon flavors and can be enjoyed baked or fried. Try it in a vegan “BLT.”
3. Zucchini Bacon
The meaty texture of zucchini makes it perfect for bacon. Marinades from ingredients like maple syrup, barbecue sauce, and seasoning make for a delicious, crispy treat. Try dehydrating for a chewier and equally as decadent “bacon.”
4. Rice Paper Bacon
Get vegetarian bacon by using sheets of rice paper. Marinade, bake, and enjoy the most realistic bacon yet. It is crispy, crunchy, salty, and looks exactly like real bacon. Give it to an omnivore friend and see what happens.
5. Coconut Bacon
If you like bacon bits, you will love this vegan coconut bacon. These crunchy bits can be easily prepared, and even more easily bought pre-made in tons of grocery stores. Put them in a salad, taco, or omelette to get the bacon flavor you love without the “oink.”
6. Tempeh Bacon
Tempeh is a fermented soy protein that is super versatile and packed with probiotics. Tempeh may not look like bacon, but it will absorb whatever flavors you marinate it in and has a very meaty texture that will give you the bacon fix you need.
7. Carrot Bacon
Photo courtesy of @meettheshannons on Instagram
Make vegetarian bacon with thinly sliced carrots. The crunch and subtle sweetness of carrots makes them surprising, yet perfect ingredients to transform into bacon.