Out of Bacon, one case
Bacon substitutes for cooking
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Turkey bacon
Same amount as the bacon
For cooking, the best bacon substitutes are Turkey Bacon (1:1), Pancetta (1:1), or Prosciutto (1:1). Each provides similar flavor and texture for cooking applications.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- cooking
One casethe full bacon card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of bacon |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Turkey baconcooking | Same amountWorks |
| 2 | Pancettacooking | Same amount |
| 3 | Prosciuttocooking | Same amountTweak it |
| 4 | Tempehcooking | Same amount |
| 5 | Mushroomscooking | Same amount |
Turkey bacon
similar taste and texture
Cured and smoked turkey meat that provides similar flavor and texture to bacon. Good for most cooking applications where bacon is used.
- Best for
- cooking, when you want similar flavor, breakfast, when you want less fat, most applications
Turkey bacon has a similar flavor to pork bacon but is lower in fat and calories. It may be slightly different in texture but works well in most cooking applications.
Pancetta
similar, not smoky · similar texture
Italian cured pork belly that provides similar flavor and texture to bacon. Good for when you want similar flavor without smokiness.
- Best for
- cooking, when you want similar flavor, Italian dishes, when you want saltiness, pairs
Pancetta has a similar flavor to bacon but is not smoked. It provides similar saltiness and can be used in many cooking applications.
Prosciutto
similar taste, different texture
Cured Italian ham that provides similar salty, savory flavor to bacon. Good for when you want similar flavor profile in cooking.
- Best for
- cooking, when you want similar flavor, Italian dishes, when you want saltiness, pairs
Prosciutto has a different texture than bacon but provides similar salty, savory flavor and can be used in many cooking applications.
Tempeh
different, can be seasoned · similar texture
Fermented soybean product that can be seasoned and cooked to mimic bacon. Good for when you want plant-based protein in cooking.
- Best for
- cooking, when you want plant-based protein, when you want similar texture, vegan cooking, most applications
Tempeh has a different flavor than bacon but can be seasoned and cooked to mimic its texture and appearance. Marinate in soy sauce, liquid smoke, and spices.
Mushrooms
different, can be seasoned
Meaty mushrooms that can be seasoned and cooked to mimic bacon. Good for when you want plant-based alternatives in cooking.
- Best for
- cooking, when you want plant-based alternatives, when you want meaty texture, vegan cooking, soups
- Texture
- meaty when cooked
Mushrooms have a different flavor than bacon but can be seasoned and cooked to mimic its texture and appearance. Use portobello or shiitake mushrooms.
How it behaves in this recipe
For cooking, bacon substitutes must provide similar flavor and texture to bacon. The recommended substitutes work because they can provide similar functionality in cooking applications while maintaining similar taste and texture profiles.
Tips for substituting bacon
7 tips- Bacon provides saltiness and umami flavor to dishes
- Cook bacon substitutes slowly over low heat to develop flavor
- Use bacon substitutes in recipes that call for bacon specifically for best results
- Bacon substitutes can be used in sweet and savory dishes alike
- Save bacon fat from substitutes for cooking other ingredients
- Bacon substitutes work well in soups, stews, and casseroles
- Experiment with different seasonings to enhance flavor
Notes on bacon
- Combine different bacon substitutes for complex flavor
- Use bacon substitutes for only part of the bacon in a recipe
- Add extra spices and seasonings to enhance flavor
- Use bacon substitutes in recipes specifically designed for them
Questions
5 questionsWhat's the best bacon substitute for cooking?
Turkey bacon or pancetta work best for cooking as they provide similar flavor and texture to bacon. Use a 1:1 ratio for best results.
Can I use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon in cooking?
Yes, turkey bacon can substitute for pork bacon in cooking using a 1:1 ratio. It has similar flavor and texture, though it may be slightly different in taste.
Why is bacon good for cooking?
Bacon is good for cooking because it provides saltiness, umami flavor, and fat that enhances the taste of other ingredients. It's versatile and works in many dishes.
Can I use mushrooms instead of bacon in cooking?
Yes, mushrooms can work as a substitute for bacon in cooking. They can be seasoned and cooked to mimic bacon's texture and appearance.
How do I use bacon substitutes in cooking?
Use bacon substitutes in the same way you would use bacon. Cook them slowly over low heat to develop flavor, then add to your dish as directed in the recipe.