Out of Bacon, one case
Vegetarian bacon substitutes
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Tempeh
Same amount as the bacon
For vegetarian 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 —
- vegetarian cooking
One casethe full bacon card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of bacon |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tempehvegetarian cooking | Same amount |
| 2 | Mushroomsvegetarian cooking | Same amount |
| 3 | Coconut baconvegetarian cooking | Same amount |
| 4 | Eggplantvegetarian cooking | Same amount |
| 5 | Seitanvegetarian 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
- vegetarian 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
- vegetarian 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
- vegetarian 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
- vegetarian 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
- vegetarian 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 vegetarian cooking, bacon substitutes must provide similar texture and flavor without meat. The recommended substitutes work because they can be seasoned and cooked to mimic bacon's characteristics while being suitable for vegetarian diets.
Tips for substituting bacon
7 tips- Marinate vegetarian substitutes in soy sauce, liquid smoke, and spices for authentic bacon flavor
- Cook vegetarian substitutes slowly over low heat to develop flavor and texture
- Use liquid smoke to enhance the smoky flavor of vegetarian substitutes
- Add smoked paprika and garlic powder to enhance the flavor profile
- For best results, use vegetarian substitutes in recipes specifically designed for them
- Store vegetarian 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 vegetarian substitutes for complex flavor
- Use vegetarian substitutes for only part of the bacon in a recipe
- Add extra spices and seasonings to enhance flavor
- Use vegetarian substitutes in recipes specifically designed for them
Questions
5 questionsWhat's the best vegetarian substitute for bacon?
Tempeh or mushrooms work best as vegetarian 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 vegetarian 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 vegetarian substitutes taste different than bacon?
Vegetarian 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.