Out of Bacon, one case
Vegan bacon substitutes
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Tempeh
Same amount as the bacon
For vegan cooking, the best bacon substitutes are Tempeh (1:1), Mushrooms (1:1), or Coconut Bacon (1:1). Each provides similar texture and can be seasoned for authentic bacon flavor.
- Best for —
- vegan cooking
One casethe full bacon card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of bacon |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tempehvegan cooking | Same amount |
| 2 | Mushroomsvegan cooking | Same amount |
| 3 | Coconut baconvegan cooking | Same amount |
| 4 | Eggplantvegan cooking | Same amount |
| 5 | Seitanvegan cooking | Same amount |
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 with similar texture.
- Best for
- vegan cooking, when you want plant-based protein, when you want similar texture, cooking, BLT sandwiches
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 with meaty texture.
- Best for
- vegan cooking, when you want plant-based alternatives, when you want meaty texture, 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.
Coconut bacon
different, can be seasoned
Seasoned coconut flakes that mimic bacon's flavor and texture. Good for when you want plant-based alternatives with crunch.
- Best for
- vegan cooking, when you want plant-based alternatives, when you want crunch, cooking, salads
- Texture
- crunchy
Coconut bacon has a different flavor than pork bacon but can be seasoned to mimic its taste and appearance. Use large coconut flakes.
Eggplant
different, can be seasoned
Sliced eggplant that can be seasoned and cooked to mimic bacon. Good for when you want plant-based alternatives with similar texture.
- Best for
- vegan cooking, when you want plant-based alternatives, when you want similar texture, cooking, sandwiches
- Texture
- similar when cooked
Eggplant has a different flavor than bacon but can be seasoned and cooked to mimic its texture and appearance. Slice thinly and marinate.
Seitan
different, can be seasoned · similar texture
Wheat gluten-based meat substitute that can be seasoned and cooked to mimic bacon. Good for when you want plant-based protein.
- Best for
- vegan cooking, when you want plant-based protein, when you want similar texture, cooking, most applications
Seitan has a different flavor than bacon but can be seasoned and cooked to mimic its texture and appearance. Marinate in soy sauce and spices.
How it behaves in this recipe
For vegan cooking, bacon substitutes must provide similar texture and flavor without any animal products. The recommended substitutes work because they can be seasoned and cooked to mimic bacon's characteristics while being suitable for vegan diets.
Tips for substituting bacon
7 tips- Marinate vegan substitutes in soy sauce, liquid smoke, and spices for authentic bacon flavor
- Cook vegan substitutes slowly over low heat to develop flavor and texture
- Use liquid smoke to enhance the smoky flavor of vegan substitutes
- Add smoked paprika and garlic powder to enhance the flavor profile
- For best results, use vegan substitutes in recipes specifically designed for them
- Store vegan substitutes in the refrigerator and use within the recommended time
- Experiment with different seasonings to find your preferred flavor profile
Notes on bacon
- Combine different vegan substitutes for complex flavor
- Use vegan substitutes for only part of the bacon in a recipe
- Add extra spices and seasonings to enhance flavor
- Use vegan substitutes in recipes specifically designed for them
Questions
5 questionsWhat's the best vegan substitute for bacon?
Tempeh or mushrooms work best as vegan substitutes for bacon. They can be seasoned and cooked to mimic bacon's texture and flavor.
Can I use tempeh instead of bacon?
Yes, tempeh can work as a substitute for bacon. Marinate it in soy sauce, liquid smoke, and spices before cooking for best results.
How do I make vegan bacon taste authentic?
Use tempeh or mushrooms as a base, then season with soy sauce, liquid smoke, smoked paprika, and other spices. Marinate for 30 minutes before cooking.
Can I use mushrooms instead of bacon?
Yes, mushrooms can work as a substitute for bacon. Use portobello or shiitake mushrooms and season them with soy sauce and liquid smoke.
Why do vegan substitutes taste different than bacon?
Vegan substitutes lack the natural fat and protein content of meat, which affects flavor and texture. Proper seasoning and cooking techniques can help mimic the original flavor.