13 Vegan Bacon Recipes You Absolutely Need to Try (2024)

FAQs

Is vegan bacon healthier than real bacon? ›

Plant-based meats tend to be lower in saturated fat and calories compared to their traditional counterparts. They tend to be high in sodium, but are generally healthier than animal-derived meat when eaten in moderation, as part of a balanced diet.

Though Hooray Bacon was a bit finicky to cook, its chewy texture, umami taste and widespread availability (find it at select Whole Foods) makes it the tastiest and most accessible plant-based bacon on the list.

Ingredients: Water, soybean oil, modified corn starch, egg whites, soy flour, wheat gluten, hydrolyzed corn protein, contains 2% or less of vegetable glycerin, salt, soy protein isolate, sodium citrate, sodium phosphate, sugar, yeast, caramel color, natural and artificial flavors, monocalcium phosphate, sodium ...

Tempeh bacon is a good source of protein and fiber. It is also low in fat and calories, making it a healthy option for those who are watching their weight.

Another must-try vegan bacon brand is Yves Veggie Cuisine. Why? Because these kosher strips come without all the cholesterol and fat of their meaty counterparts. Yves' vegan bacon strips boast 14g of protein per three-slice serving and contain no trans fats or artificial preservatives.

There are a variety of ways to make vegetarian bacon, but it is often made from ingredients such as soy, tempeh, or mushrooms, which are flavored and processed to mimic the taste and texture of traditional bacon. Some brands may also use pea protein, rice, or wheat gluten to make vegetarian bacon.

Thick Cut Applewood Smoked Bacon

Ingredients: Pork Bellies Cured With Water, Salt, Sugar, Natural Smoke Flavor, Sodium Phosphate, Sodium Erythorbate, Sodium Nitrite.

Bacon and pancetta have the most in common. They are both typically made from pork belly and both are cured for a certain length of time. Both are also considered “raw” and need to be cooked before eating. The process for making the two is slightly different.

Turkey bacon is likely healthier for you than conventional bacon since it's not red meat. Turkey bacon, however, is still processed meat. Stick to small portions, pair it with nutrient-rich foods, and choose nitrate-free versions if you enjoy turkey bacon and want to keep eating it. U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Back Bacon*

Made with more than 140g of pork per 100g of finished product. OR: Pork, Water, Salt, Antioxidant (Sodium Ascorbate), Preservative (Sodium Nitrite). *This bacon is smoked using beechwood.

What is Mcdonald's bacon made of? ›

Ingredients: Pork Bellies Cured With Water, Salt, Sugar, Natural Smoke Flavor, Sodium Phosphate, Sodium Erythorbate, Sodium Nitrite.

Muslims can actually consume bacon, but not the pork kind. They can eat either turkey or beef bacon and they do have halal bacon but it is either turkey or beef derived. As far as bacon flavor goes, it is acceptable as long as it is not pork derived, whether natural or artificial.

Perhaps the only downside to tempeh is its calorie count is higher than tofu's, but the nutrients it packs more than make up for this. But tofu is not without its advantages. Because tempeh is often made with additional ingredients, it may not be gluten-free, so keep that in mind if you have dietary restrictions.

They both do contain some of the same nutrients such as iron, calcium, potassium and magnesium. Tofu may have more selenium and zinc, but Tempeh may have more B vitamins. Both are healthy and contain some of the same nutrients. Being fermented, tempeh is also probiotic - but this effect may be lost in heating.

The Difference Between Seitan and Tempeh

Tempeh's flavor is often compared to that of mushrooms. Its slightly nutty and savory flavor, making it ideal when adding to recipes like teriyaki bowls, salads and curry. Seitan's taste is a bit more savory, with a taste closer to a portobello mushroom or bland chicken.

Vegan bacon could therefore be seen as a better alternative to pig bacon, but that's not to say it's a healthy food product. Plant-based meats are ultra processed foods, and they also tend to be high in salt. They are, however, lower in saturated fat, and don't contain the same preservatives as pig bacon.

Turkey Bacon

This is a slightly healthier option from your average pork bacon. It contains a lot less fat and harmful ingredients than your average bacon. You can also go one step further and buy the low sodium version for an even better alternative!

If you're looking to start eating healthier, turkey bacon is a great option. Maybe you're looking to cut down on calories or you're trying to reduce your sodium intake. Either way, turkey bacon is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional pork bacon.