Savory Vegan Coconut 'Bacon' Bites
Discover a unique twist on traditional bacon with these Savory Vegan Coconut 'Bacon' Bites! Using large, luscious coconut flakes, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a crunchy, smoky snack that’s perfect for salads, sandwiches, or as a topping for your favorite plant-based dishes. The combination of soy sauce, maple syrup, and liquid smoke creates a delightful umami flavor, making these 'bacon' bites truly satisfying. Ideal for those following a vegan or plant-based diet, this recipe is not just soy-free but also bursting with flavor. Enjoy them as a snack or incorporate them into your meals for an added crunch and flavor boost!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Dried coconut flakes
1 cup (large pieces, unshredded)
Soy sauce
1/4 cup (low-sodium recommended)
Maple syrup
2 tablespoons (pure)
Balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon (preferably aged)
Canola oil
2 tablespoons (or other neutral oil)
Freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon (to taste)
Liquid smoke
1 teaspoon (or 1/4 teaspoon hickory smoke powder)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, canola oil, freshly ground black pepper, and liquid smoke until well combined.
2
Gently fold in the dried coconut flakes, ensuring all the flakes are evenly coated with the marinade.
3
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let the mixture marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld.
4
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5
Spread the marinated coconut flakes in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet.
6
Bake for 30-40 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to ensure even baking and prevent burning, until the coconut is golden brown and has reached your desired level of crispiness.
7
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Vegan Coconut 'Bacon' Bites?
They are a plant-based alternative to traditional bacon made from large dried coconut flakes marinated in a smoky, savory sauce and baked until crunchy.
What type of coconut is best for this recipe?
You should use large, unsweetened coconut flakes (unshredded). These provide the surface area and texture most similar to bacon strips or bits.
How do I make these 'bacon' bites soy-free?
To make this recipe soy-free, simply substitute the soy sauce with an equal amount of coconut aminos.
Can I use shredded coconut instead of flakes?
Shredded coconut is not recommended as it is too small and will burn very quickly in the oven. Large flakes are necessary for the desired texture.
What is the purpose of liquid smoke in this recipe?
Liquid smoke provides the essential smoky aroma and flavor that characterizes traditional bacon.
How long should I marinate the coconut flakes?
You should marinate the flakes for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the coconut.
At what temperature should I bake the coconut bacon?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for the best results.
How long does it take to bake?
Baking usually takes between 30 to 40 minutes, depending on your oven and desired crispiness.
Why do I need to stir the flakes every 10 minutes?
Stirring ensures even baking and prevents the sugars in the maple syrup from burning the edges of the coconut flakes.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, provided you use a gluten-free soy sauce (like Tamari) or coconut aminos.
What can I use if I don't have liquid smoke?
You can substitute liquid smoke with 1/4 teaspoon of hickory smoke powder or smoked paprika for a similar effect.
What should I serve these with?
They are perfect as a topping for salads, sandwiches (like a Vegan BLT), baked potatoes, or grain bowls.
How should I store leftover coconut bacon?
Store the cooled bites in an airtight container at room temperature or in the pantry.
How long will the bites stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container, they can stay crunchy and fresh for up to two weeks.
Can I make this recipe oil-free?
You can omit the canola oil, but the coconut may be slightly less crunchy and more prone to sticking.
Is maple syrup required?
Maple syrup provides the 'sweet and salty' balance common in bacon. You can substitute it with agave nectar if preferred.
Why did my coconut bacon turn out chewy instead of crunchy?
This usually happens if they aren't baked long enough or if they haven't been allowed to cool completely, as they crisp up further while cooling.
Can I use balsamic glaze instead of vinegar?
It is better to use balsamic vinegar as the glaze has a higher sugar content and may cause the flakes to burn more easily.
Are these bites healthy?
Yes, they are a plant-based, cholesterol-free alternative to animal bacon, though they should be enjoyed in moderation due to the sodium and fat content.
Can I air fry the coconut flakes?
Yes, you can air fry them at 300°F, shaking the basket every 2-3 minutes, but watch them very closely as they can burn in seconds.
What oil is best for this recipe?
A neutral oil like canola, grapeseed, or avocado oil is best so that it doesn't overpower the smoky flavor.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure you use a large enough baking sheet so the flakes stay in an even layer for proper browning.
Do I need to grease the parchment paper?
No, the oil in the marinade and the natural fats in the coconut should prevent sticking to the parchment paper.
Is the black pepper necessary?
It adds a nice bite and depth, but you can adjust the amount or omit it based on your personal preference.
Can I add other spices?
Yes, adding a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder can enhance the savory umami profile.
Should the coconut flakes be raw or toasted before starting?
Use raw, dried coconut flakes. The 'toasting' happens during the baking process with the marinade.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, children often enjoy the crunchy, sweet, and salty flavor of these bites as a snack.
Can I freeze coconut bacon?
You can freeze it in a sealed bag for up to 3 months, but it may lose some of its crispiness upon thawing.
How do I know when they are done?
They are done when they are a deep golden brown and feel mostly dry to the touch.
Why is this called 'bacon'?
It is called 'bacon' because the marinade and baking process mimic the smoky, salty, and crunchy characteristics of pork bacon.