Savory Tempeh Bacon Strips
Delve into the delicious world of plant-based cooking with this Savory Tempeh Bacon Strips recipe! Perfect as a breakfast option or for adding a smoky flavor to salads and sandwiches, these marinated tempeh strips are quick to prepare and can be enjoyed in various dishes. Packed with umami flavors from soy sauce, tangy apple cider vinegar, and the richness of liquid smoke, this tempeh bacon is a satisfying and healthier alternative to traditional bacon. Serve it alongside your favorite breakfast items or as a savory snack that will impress both vegans and omnivores alike!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Tamari or Soy Sauce
2 tablespoons (liquid)
Apple Cider Vinegar
1/3 cup (liquid)
Tomato Paste
1 teaspoon (condiment)
Liquid Smoke
1/4 teaspoon (liquid)
Tempeh
1 kg (sliced into strips)
Garlic Cloves
2, crushed (aromatic)
Peanut Oil or Vegetable Oil
2 tablespoons (for frying)
Instructions
1
In a wide, shallow bowl, mix the tamari or soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, tomato paste, and liquid smoke. Use a fork to combine until the tomato paste is fully dissolved, creating a flavorful marinade. Set it aside for later use.
2
Slice the tempeh into thin strips, aim for less than 1/4-inch thick for optimal crispiness. You should yield about 12 strips from a 1 kg block of tempeh.
3
Rub each tempeh strip generously with the crushed garlic. Then, add the crushed garlic to the marinade for added flavor infusion.
4
Submerge the tempeh strips into the prepared marinade, ensuring they're well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour, or preferably overnight, to absorb the flavors.
5
After marination, remove and discard the garlic cloves from the marinade.
6
In a large skillet, heat the peanut or vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering.
7
Add the marinated tempeh strips to the skillet and let them cook undisturbed for about 4 minutes until the underside is a deep, golden brown.
8
Flip the strips carefully and pour the remaining marinade over them. If little marinade remains, add a splash of water to ensure even cooking.
9
Cover the skillet with a lid and allow the tempeh to cook for an additional 3 minutes, letting the liquid absorb into the tempeh.
10
Remove the lid and check for doneness. If the tempeh isn't browned to your liking, continue cooking uncovered until all sides are crispy and well-browned.
11
Take the tempeh bacon strips off the heat and serve immediately. Enjoy them as part of your breakfast or as a savory snack!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Tempeh Bacon Strips?
They are a plant-based, protein-rich alternative to traditional bacon made from marinated and fried tempeh.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, this recipe is entirely plant-based and vegan-friendly.
Is this tempeh bacon gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use tamari instead of soy sauce, the recipe is gluten-free.
What ingredients are used in the marinade?
The marinade consists of tamari or soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, tomato paste, and liquid smoke.
How thick should I slice the tempeh?
For optimal crispiness, aim to slice the tempeh into strips less than 1/4-inch thick.
How many strips does a 1 kg block of tempeh yield?
According to this recipe, a 1 kg block should yield approximately 12 strips.
How do I prepare the garlic for this recipe?
The garlic cloves should be crushed and rubbed onto each strip before being added to the marinade.
How long should the tempeh marinate?
It should marinate for at least one hour, though letting it sit overnight is preferred for better flavor absorption.
Should I cook the garlic cloves with the tempeh?
No, you should remove and discard the crushed garlic cloves from the marinade before frying.
What type of oil is recommended for frying?
Peanut oil or vegetable oil is recommended for frying the strips.
What temperature should I use for cooking?
Cook the tempeh strips in a skillet over medium heat.
How long do I cook the first side of the tempeh?
Cook the strips undisturbed for about 4 minutes until the underside is a deep golden brown.
When do I add the leftover marinade?
Pour the remaining marinade over the strips after you have flipped them carefully in the skillet.
What if there is very little marinade left in the bowl?
If little marinade remains, you can add a splash of water to the skillet to ensure even cooking.
Do I need to cover the skillet while cooking?
Yes, cover the skillet with a lid for about 3 minutes after flipping and adding the marinade to let the liquid absorb.
How do I ensure the tempeh bacon is crispy?
If the strips aren't browned to your liking after covering, continue cooking them uncovered until all sides are crispy.
What does liquid smoke add to the recipe?
Liquid smoke provides the characteristic smoky flavor typically associated with traditional bacon.
Can I serve these strips for breakfast?
Yes, they are a perfect addition to a plant-based breakfast.
Are these strips good in sandwiches?
Yes, they are excellent for adding a savory, smoky flavor to sandwiches or salads.
Why is tomato paste used in the marinade?
Tomato paste adds richness and helps create a flavorful, thick marinade that coats the tempeh well.
What is the purpose of apple cider vinegar in this recipe?
Apple cider vinegar adds a tangy note that balances the umami and smoky flavors.
How do I know the oil is ready for frying?
The oil should be heated until it is shimmering before you add the tempeh strips.
Is tempeh a healthy bacon alternative?
Yes, tempeh is a fermented soy product that is generally considered a healthier, plant-based alternative to pork bacon.
Can I use regular soy sauce?
Yes, you can use soy sauce if you do not have tamari, though it may contain gluten.
What kind of flavor profile does this recipe have?
It features a savory, umami flavor with smoky and tangy undertones.
Can I eat these as a snack?
Yes, these savory strips can be enjoyed as a standalone snack.
Is the tempeh cooked before or after marinating?
The tempeh is marinated raw (or as packaged) and then fried in a skillet.
Do I need a special bowl for marinating?
A wide, shallow bowl is best to ensure the strips can be submerged or well-coated.
Should I serve the strips hot or cold?
The recipe recommends taking them off the heat and serving them immediately for the best texture.
Is this recipe difficult to make?
No, it is a quick and straightforward preparation that mainly requires time for marination.