Substitutes for tempeh bacon include rice paper bacon, coconut bacon, shiitake mushroom bacon, seitan bacon, tofu bacon, eggplant bacon, and zucchini bacon, each offering unique textures and flavors for various dietary preferences, from gluten-free to high-protein and raw food diets.
Rice paper bacon is made by seasoning rice paper sheets with a smoky sauce and then baking or frying them. It's a gluten-free substitute that mimics the crispness of bacon. Use in a 1:1 ratio. Expect a crispy texture similar to actual bacon. Brands vary, often homemade.
As mentioned above, coconut bacon is also gluten-free and can be used across various gluten-free recipes. Use a 1:1 ratio for a sweet and smoky addition. Phoney Baloney's is a popular choice.
Coconut bacon is made from flaked coconut marinated in a savory, smoky sauce, then baked until crispy. It's suitable for vegan and gluten-free diets. Use it in a 1:1 ratio as a topping or in dishes where a crispy, smoky element is desired. Expect a sweeter flavor. Popular brands include Phoney Baloney's.
Shiitake mushroom bacon is made by slicing the mushrooms thinly and marinating them before baking. It works well in savory dishes, offering a rich, umami flavor. Use in a 1:1 ratio as a substitute for tempeh bacon. Expect a meaty texture. No specific brands, typically homemade.
Seitan bacon is made from wheat gluten, providing a high-protein, chewy texture similar to bacon. It's not gluten-free but works well for those looking for a protein boost. Use in a 1:1 ratio. Expect a chewy texture and savory flavor. Brands like Upton's Naturals offer ready-made options.
Tofu bacon is created by slicing tofu into thin strips and marinating it in a smoky sauce before baking or frying. It's high in protein and can be made gluten-free if desired. Use in a 1:1 ratio. Expect a firmer texture and a savory, smoky taste. No specific brands, typically homemade.
Eggplant bacon involves thinly slicing eggplant, marinating it in a smoky sauce, and dehydrating or baking until crispy. It's suitable for raw and whole food diets. Use in a 1:1 ratio as a bacon alternative. Expect a chewy texture and a rich, smoky flavor. Typically made at home.
Zucchini bacon is made by thinly slicing zucchini, marinating it with smoky flavors, and dehydrating until crispy. It's raw, vegan, and whole-food plant-based. Use in a 1:1 ratio. Expect a lighter, crisp texture. Usually homemade, as there are no widespread commercial brands.
| Recipe Category | Substitutes |
|---|---|
| Gluten-Free Recipes | Rice Paper Bacon, Coconut Bacon |
| Plant-Based Recipes | Coconut Bacon, Shiitake Mushroom Bacon |
| High-Protein Recipes | Seitan Bacon, Tofu Bacon |
| Raw and Whole Food Recipes | Eggplant Bacon, Zucchini Bacon |
While tempeh bacon is a unique and nutritious plant-based product, there are several other alternatives that can offer similar textures and flavors to suit various dietary needs. Whether you're looking for a gluten-free, high-protein, or raw food substitute, these options can provide the smoky, savory quality that bacon adds to dishes.
