Vegan Bacon bits: best quick plant based bacon recipe

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Plant-based bacon bits: the best plant based bacon recipe – Indulge in the perfect blend of savory, smoky, sweet, and irresistibly crunchy vegan bacon bits crafted from soft dried dates! These delicious meat-free  homemade bacon bits are the perfect alternative to traditional bacon bits. So next time you crave thick strips of bacon why not try these crispiest vegan bacon strips of pure flavor goodness!

Elevate your salads, baked potatoes, or savor them with these crunchy texture on the outside vegan bacony bits that are so much better than store-bought bacon bits! These vegetarian bits are my go-to easy way to transform any dish with their smokey bacon-like flavor for a deliciously satisfying experience. We’re talking the real deal, crispiest vegan bacon, almost vegan copycat cooked bacon that all bacon lovers will appreciate. And the best part is there’s weird dry ingredients to look for at the grocery store + you get lots of different ways to flavor the crispiest vegan bacon to suit your tastebuds!

Transform your plant-based diets with our Best Vegan Bacon Bits recipe! Dive into the world of savory goodness, where our main ingredient is the humble dried dates take center stage, infused with the irresistible smokiness of paprika, the perfect touch of salt, and the rich allure of barbecue sauce. These vegan bacon bits are not just a substitution for smoky flavors; they’re a revelation for those seeking a plant-based to delicious bacon bits alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture.

The best vegan bacon bits ever

Picture this: delicate date bits coated in a symphony of spices, creating a medley that promises to satisfy your craving for that classic bacon crunch. With just a touch of vegetable oil, these bits hit the stovetop, sizzling and crisping up to perfection. No need for shiitake mushrooms, or thin strips of bacon made from vegan rice paper bacon or carrots (but if you want to try out these delicious vegan versions of plant based bacon then try the best plant based rice paper bacon recipe or carrot slices made into crunchy long strips of vegan bacon. They’re sooo good and the perfect company for vegan steak or plant-based meats and burgers)

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or someone looking to explore the delicious world of plant-based options, these bacon bits are a game-changer. Sprinkle them on salads, incorporate them into your favorite dishes, or enjoy them as a savory snack – the possibilities are as endless as the flavor.

Crispy vegan bacon

Say goodbye to FOMO when it comes to bacon, and embrace the plant-based goodness of our Best Vegan Bacon Bits. It’s time to elevate your dishes with a burst of smoky, savory delight, all while savoring the guilt-free satisfaction of a vegan culinary triumph, your own vegan bacon bits! 

 Embark on a culinary adventure with our plant-based bacon bits recipe that brings together the smoky essence of barbecue, the rich savoriness of smoked paprika, and the natural sweetness of soft dried dates. This delightful creation not only mimics the crunch and flavor of traditional bacon but also caters to those seeking a plant-based, vegan alternative.

As you delve into the process, you’ll witness the transformation of humble dried dates into irresistibly crispy, savory bacon bits. The marriage of flavors is nothing short of magical, with each element contributing to a symphony of tastes that dance on your taste buds.

The stovetop becomes your culinary stage, and the frying pan, your orchestra pit. As the symphony unfolds, high heat transforms these humble ingredients into a crescendo of flavors. The vegan bacon bits begin to sizzle and brown, their edges crisping up to a golden perfection.

With a culinary flourish, the pan is removed from the heat, and the crispy plant-based bacon bits cascade onto greaseproof paper, ready to dazzle your taste buds. Serve them as a standalone snack, a topping for salads, or a flavorful addition to your favorite dishes. And for those who relish a bit more boldness, a sprinkle of extra salt introduces that classic bacon saltiness.

Get ready to elevate your plant-based culinary repertoire and savor the smoky, savory symphony of our homemade plant-based bacon bits – a delicious, guilt-free delight that proves plant-based cuisine can be just as exciting and satisfying. 

In this plant based bacon recipe we’re covering

• What makes this Plant Based bacon the ultimate bacon bits recipe
• Equipment needed to make plant-based bacon bits
• What are vegan bacon bits made of: Best plant based bacon ingredients
• Best vegetarian bacon substitute options
• Tips and Tricks for making plant based bacon recipe
• Plant-based bacon bits recipe
• How to make best vegan bacon bits recipe: fry, bake and air fryer instructions
• Delicious vegan bacon bits recipe variations
• What to eat with plant based bacon
• How to store and reheat leftover plant-based bacon
• Plant-based bacon bits FAQs

What makes this Plant Based bacon the ultimate bacon bits recipe

Discover the magic of our ultimate plant-based bacon bits recipe! From the natural sweetness of soft dried dates to the symphony of savory flavors, this crispy delight redefines vegan bacon. Join the culinary adventure and elevate your dishes with a guilt-free, plant-powered twist that’s sure to leave your taste buds craving more. Let’s dive into the irresistible world of plant-based bacon perfection! 

Unveiling the Plant-Based Bacon Perfection:

This plant-based bacon bits recipe reigns supreme for several reasons:

1. Natural Goodness:

   – Crafted from soft dried dates, this recipe harnesses the wholesome sweetness of nature as the base.

2. Flavor Explosion:

   – The marriage of barbecue sauce, smoked paprika, and a touch of salt creates a symphony of savory, smoky, and sweet flavors.

3. Crispy Crunch:

   – Achieve the perfect crunch with a sizzling fry in vegetable oil, ensuring each bite delights the senses.

4. Versatility:

   – Whether sprinkled on salads, loaded onto a vegan BLT, or added to plant-based pasta, these bacon bits elevate any dish.

5. Health-Conscious Choice:

   – Say goodbye to artificial additives. This recipe offers a guilt-free, plant-powered alternative without compromising on taste.

Unlock the secret to plant-based bacon bliss, and relish in a culinary creation that’s both delectable and compassionate! 

Equipment needed to make plant-based bacon bits

1. Cutting Board:

   – For precise chopping of soft dried dates into delectable bacon bits.

2. Sharp Knife:

   – Ensures clean and efficient slicing of dates, contributing to the texture of your bacon bits.

3. Frying Pan:

   – The key vessel for infusing flavors and achieving that crispy perfection during the frying process.

4. Stovetop:

   – Provides the heat needed to transform your ingredients into savory plant-based bacon.

5. Spatula:

   – Handy for stirring and flipping your bacon bits as they sizzle to crispy perfection.

6. Grease-Proof or Baking Paper:

   – A non-stick surface for cooling and preserving the delightful crispiness of your plant-based bacon.

Prepare to embark on a plant-based culinary adventure armed with these essential tools, and watch as your kitchen transforms into a haven of delightful vegan bacon creations! 

What are vegan bacon bits made of: Best plant based bacon ingredients

Crafting Crunchy Goodness – Plant-Based Bacon Bits Recipe:

Elevate your plant-based culinary game with this easy and delicious vegan bacon bits recipe. Using wholesome ingredients like soft dried dates and a blend of savory seasonings, you’ll create a savory, smoky delight that adds a flavorful crunch to your favorite dishes. Let’s dive into the simple yet magical world of plant-based bacon! 

Crafting Perfect Plant-Based Bacon Bits:

1. Soft Dried Dates (1 cup / 250g):

   – These form the base, bringing a naturally sweet yet hearty foundation for your bacon bits.

2. Barbecue Sauce (2 tablespoons):

   – Infuses a rich, smoky flavor, creating that classic bacon essence we all love. Use my easy vegan Barbeque sauce recipe found on the recipe card, or use your favorite bbq sauce to give this great recipe a sure favorite foods flavor for you and your family! For extra sweetness, you can add a bit of maple syrup to your homemade delish imitation bacon bits.

3. Smoked Paprika (1 teaspoon):

   – Elevates the smokiness, contributing a depth of flavor reminiscent of traditional bacon. Alternatively, you can use one of your favorite spice rubs and a little liquid smoke to give the vegan bacon bits that delicious smoky flavor without any animal-derived ingredients. 

4. Salt (1/3 teaspoon):

   – Balances the sweetness of dates and enhances the savory profile of your plant-based bacon. Because actual bacon has a very salty flavor profile using a bit more salt than usual is one of the great ways to give that real bacon bits vegan style imitation that’s so good it can easily pass for bacon.

5. Vegetable Oil (1 tablespoon, Olive, Avocado, or Your Choice):

   – Adds the necessary oiliness for crisping, ensuring your bacon bits achieve the perfect crunch. Avocado oil, olive oil, coconut oil, sunflower oil, canola oil, or any made for consumption neutral oil will work well to fry these plant based bacon bits to the crunchy best experience!

Unleash the savory magic by combining these ingredients, and you’ll have a plant-based bacon experience that’s both delightful and guilt-free. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring, this recipe promises a tasty adventure! 

Best vegetarian bacon substitute options

Looking for the ultimate vegetarian bacon substitute that’s both savory and satisfying? Look no further! This dried date plant-based bacon recipe is a game-changer. It brings a delightful smokiness and crispy texture to your dishes, making it an excellent choice for salads, pizzas, and more.

But wait, the versatility doesn’t end there! If you’re feeling adventurous, consider experimenting with oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes or coconut flakes as fantastic substitutes. These alternatives not only add unique flavors but also cater to various dietary preferences.

So, whether you’re a seasoned plant-based enthusiast or just dipping your toes into the world of vegetarian delights, this recipe and its substitutes are here to revolutionize your meals. Get ready for a burst of flavor and crunch that’ll leave you reaching for seconds! 

Tips and Tricks for making plant based bacon recipe

Master the art of crafting perfect plant-based bacon bits with these handy tips. From choosing the right dates to achieving that coveted crispy texture, these insights will elevate your vegan culinary experience. Let’s dive into the secrets for creating a delectable and satisfying plant-based bacon! 

Plant-Based Bacon Tips and Tricks:

1. Choose Soft Dates:

   – Opt for soft dried dates, as they blend well and create a desirable texture for bacon bits. They give the best actual bacon like golden brown and crunchy on the outside texture, while still being slightly sticky and juicy. It’s the secret main ingredient to the best vegan bacon recipe!

2. Pit Removal Efficiency:

   – Remove pits from dates efficiently to streamline the preparation process.

3. Uniform Slicing:

   – Achieve uniformity in bacon bits by slicing dates into consistent sizes for even cooking.

4. Creative Seasoning:

   – Experiment with various seasonings and flavor profiles to tailor the bacon bits to your taste preferences.

5. Perfect Barbecue Sauce Ratio:

   – Find the ideal ratio of barbecue sauce to ensure a flavorful and well-coated result.

6. Mindful Frying Temperature:

   – Maintain a high heat while frying to achieve crispy edges without overcooking. For extra crispy vegan bacon bits fry for longer to get the dates crispy all the way through. For more juicy bacon that’s crispy textured on the outside and still juicy on the inside fry on high for shorter, stopping just when the outside is caramel colored and crispy.

7. Gentle Mixing:

   – Mix the bacon bits in the pan gently to evenly coat them with barbecue sauce and fry until they are golden dark caramel color with the texture of real bacon bits.

8. Balancing Sweet and Savory:

   – Adjust sweetness and saltiness according to your preference for a balanced flavor profile. Use your favorite bbq sauce or spice rub to enhance the natural flavors of the fake bacon bits and give them an amazing plant-powered flavor boost. Try a vegan hickory sauce and transform these delicious vegan bacon bits into hickory smoked veggie bacon bits! These plant based bacon bits are a welcome addition as topping for any salad recipes or potato salad. 

9. Oil Choice Matters:

   – Experiment with different oils like olive oil, avocado oil, or vegetable oil to discover your preferred taste.

10. Creative Serving Suggestions:

    – Think beyond salads and use the bacon bits to elevate pizzas, pastas, and even desserts.

11. Extra Crispy Texture:

    – Ensure crispiness by frying until the edges brown but monitor closely to prevent burning.

12. Storage Considerations:

    – Store bacon bits in an airtight container to maintain their crunchiness for longer.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll master the art of creating delicious and crispy plant-based bacon bits with dried dates. Enjoy the smoky, savory goodness in your favorite dishes! 

Plant-based bacon bits Recipe

Best vegan bacon bits – Picture this: finely chopped dates mingling in a vibrant mixture of smoked paprika, salt, and barbecue sauce, creating a coating that promises to infuse every bite with a perfect blend of smokiness and sweetness. The vegetable oil joins the ensemble, introducing a touch of indulgence and ensuring that, when heated, the plant-based bacon bits achieve that sought-after crispiness.

Serves 4 people (maybe less if you like to eat a lot of bacon)

• 1 cups (250g) soft dried dates, pits removed 
• 2 tablespoons Barbecue sauce 
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 
• 1/3 teaspoon salt 
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, olive oil, avocado oil or vegetable oil of your choice 

How to fry plant based bacon

1. Prep the Dates:

   – Start by chopping the dried dates into bite-sized bits.

2. Coat the plant based bacon with Flavor:

   – In a mixing bowl, combine the date bits with smoked paprika, salt, and barbecue sauce. Ensure each piece is thoroughly coated in the flavorful mixture. (Alternatively, mix dates and sauce directly in the frying pan; Place the date bacon bits in a frying pan and add the smoked paprika, salt and barbecue sauce. Mix in the pan until all the plant-based bacon bits are covered in barbecue sauce.)

3. Pan Assembly:

   – Place a frying pan on the stovetop and add vegetable oil. Heat the pan on high.

4. Fry to Crispy Perfection:

   – Transfer the coated plant-based bacon bits to the hot pan. Stir occasionally as you fry on high heat for 4-5 minutes. The goal is a crispy texture and golden-brown edges.

5. Remove and Drain:

   – Once the vegan bacon bits achieve the desired crispiness, carefully remove the pan from the heat.

   – Gently pour the crispy bacon bits onto greaseproof or baking paper to drain any excess oil.

6. Serve the best plant based bacon and Season:

   – Your delectable plant-based bacon bits are now ready to be served.

   – For an extra burst of bacon flavor, consider a light sprinkle of salt before serving. Remember, regular bacon is known for its saltiness.

Enjoy the savory goodness of your homemade plant-based bacon bits! 

Oven Method for Plant-Based Bacon Bits

1. Preheat the Oven:

   – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the plant based Bacon:

   – Chop the dried dates into bits and place them in a bowl.

   – Add smoked paprika, salt, and barbecue sauce to the chopped dates. Mix until the bacon bits are well coated.

3. Baking Tray Preparation:

   – Line a baking tray with parchment paper.

   – Spread the coated plant-based bacon bits evenly on the parchment-lined tray.

4. Bake vegan bacon bits recipe in the Oven:

   – Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon bits are crispy, stirring occasionally for even browning.

5. Cool and Serve:

   – Once crispy, remove the tray from the oven and let the plant-based bacon bits cool on the parchment paper.

   – Serve and enjoy the crunchy plant-based bacon bits.

Air Fryer Method for Plant-Based Bacon Bits

1. Prepare the plant-based Bacon Bits:

   – Chop the dried dates into bits and place them in a bowl.

   – Add smoked paprika, salt, and barbecue sauce to the chopped dates. Mix until the bacon bits are well coated.

2. Preheat the Air Fryer:

   – Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes.

3. Air Fry the Bacon Bits:

   – Place the coated plant-based bacon bits in the air fryer basket. Spread them out for even cooking.

   – Air fry for 10-15 minutes, shaking the basket or stirring halfway through to ensure even crisping.

4. Cool and Serve:

   – Once crispy, remove the plant-based bacon bits from the air fryer.

   – Allow them to cool on a plate or parchment paper.

   – Serve and savor the delicious plant-based bacon bits.

Enjoy your plant-based bacon bits whether you choose the oven or air fryer method! 

Delicious vegan bacon bits recipe variations

Transform your plant-based bacon bits into a symphony of flavors with these creative variations. From smoky maple glaze meat free bacon to garlic parmesan infusion, elevate your dishes with diverse and delectable twists. Explore these ideas to add a burst of excitement to your culinary creations! 

Vegan Bacon Bits Variations:

1. Smoky Maple Glaze:

   – Combine bacon bits with a smoky maple glaze for a sweet and savory twist.

2. Spicy Chipotle Infusion:

   – Infuse bacon bits with chipotle powder or adobo sauce for a spicy kick.

3. Herb-Infused Delight:

   – Mix chewy bacon bits with finely chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley.

4. Crispy Coconut Bacon:

   – Swap out oil with coconut oil and add shredded coconut for a tropical flair and added coconut aminos benefit.

5. Sun-Dried Tomato Fusion:

   – Blend oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes with bacon bits for a burst of rich flavor and a natural bacon marinade.

6. Barbecue Bliss:

   – Toss bacon bits in a barbecue seasoning blend for a tangy and savory profile.

7. Garlic Parmesan Infusion:

   – Add minced garlic or garlic powder and vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast to create a robust real thing garlic parmesan bacon.

8. Soy and Ginger Fusion:

   – Marinate bacon bits in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for an Asian-inspired flavor perfect for a plant-based diet.

9. Hickory-Smoked Perfection:

   – Incorporate a little bit liquid smoke into the recipe for an intense hickory-smoked taste.

10. Sweet and Spicy Combo:

    – Create a sweet and spicy blend by adding a touch of brown sugar, onion powder and cayenne pepper to the bacon strips.

11. Lemon Pepper Twist:

    – Zest up bacon bits with a sprinkle of lemon zest and cracked black pepper.

12. Italian Herb Elegance:

    – Infuse bacon bits with Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme for a Mediterranean touch.

Experiment with these variations to tailor your vegan bacon bits to different flavor profiles and culinary preferences! 

What to eat with plant based bacon

Serving Ideas for Vegan Bacon Bits:

Explore creative ways to incorporate the smoky crunch of plant-based bacon bits into your meals. Elevate salads, pizzas, pasta, and more with these delightful serving suggestions. Get ready to transform ordinary dishes into flavorful plant-based delights! 

Ways to Enjoy Vegan Bacon Bits:

1. Salads: Sprinkle bacon bits on top of salads for a delightful crunch and smoky flavor that will take your vegan journey to the next level of deliosness.

2. Loaded Potatoes: Jazz up baked or mashed potatoes with a generous serving of vegan bacon bits.

3. Pizza Topping: Add a plant-based twist to your pizza by scattering bacon bits over the cheesy goodness.

4. Pasta Dishes: Elevate pasta dishes by mixing in vegan bacon bits for extra flavor and texture.

5. Vegan Mac ‘n’ Cheese: Stir bacon bits into your mac ‘n’ cheese for a savory kick.

6. Soup Garnish: Sprinkle over soups like vegan clam chowder, potato soup or creamy pea soup for a burst of smokiness.

More delicious ways to eat vegan bacon

7. Vegan Carbonara: Create a plant-based carbonara by incorporating bacon bits into your pasta and sauce.

8. Baked Goods: Enhance the flavor of savory muffins, scones, or bread by folding in vegan bacon bits.

9. Stuffed Mushrooms: Mix bacon bits into the stuffing for a savory twist to stuffed mushrooms.

10. Avocado Toast: Top your avocado toast with a sprinkle of bacon bits for a tasty breakfast or snack.

11. Vegan Buddha Bowl: Elevate your Buddha bowl by adding bacon bits for an extra layer of flavor.

12. Plant-Based Breakfast: Garnish tofu scrambles, vegan omelets, or breakfast burritos with bacon bits.

Experiment with these ideas to savor the smoky goodness of vegan bacon bits in a variety of dishes! 

How to store and reheat leftover plant-based bacon

Storing and Reheating Plant-Based Bacon Bits:

Preserve the irresistible crunch of your plant-based bacon bits by following these simple storage tips.

Plant-based Bacon bits Storage:

1. Allow the plant-based bacon bits to cool completely.

2. Transfer them to an airtight container, ensuring it’s sealed well to preserve crispiness.

3. Store in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Reheating vegan bacon bits:

Discover easy methods to revive the crispiness of your plant-based bacon bits, ensuring they stay delicious for every bite.

1. For Oven or Air Fryer:

   – Preheat the oven or air fryer to a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C).

   – Spread the bacon bits on a baking sheet or in the air fryer basket in a single layer.

   – Reheat for 5-10 minutes or until the desired level of crispiness is achieved.

2. For Stovetop:

   – Heat a skillet or frying pan over low to medium heat.

   – Add the bacon bits and stir occasionally until they warm up and regain some crispiness.

3. For Microwave (for a softer texture):

   – Place a small portion of bacon bits in a microwave-safe dish.

   – Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.

Note:

– Reheating times may vary, so monitor closely to prevent burning.

– If the bacon bits have lost too much crispiness, consider placing them back in the oven or air fryer for a few extra minutes.

Enjoy the smoky goodness of your plant-based bacon bits by storing and reheating them with care! 

Plant-based bacon bits FAQs

Freezing and more FAQs

Vegan delicious things to eat with vegan bacon bits recipe serving ideas

• Portobello avocado mushroom steaks
• Lentil burgers
• Crispy potatoes 
• Celeriac steak
• Vegan roast
• My vegan brisket (or my gluten-free vegan brisket)

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