Are you ready to elevate your plant-based meals with a mouthwatering twist? Say hello to Easy Vegan Coconut Bacon—your new favorite crunchy topping that will have even the most dedicated meat-lovers asking for seconds! In just 25 minutes, you can transform simple coconut flakes into a savory, smoky delight that’s perfect for salads, sandwiches, or just snacking straight from the jar. With a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe is not only quick but also bursting with flavor. Dive into this deliciously simple recipe and discover how to create a vegan bacon substitute that will leave you craving more!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Coconut flakes
- Liquid smoke
- Soy sauce
- Maple syrup
- Smoked paprika
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine liquid smoke, soy sauce, maple syrup, and smoked paprika. Whisk these ingredients thoroughly until they are well blended and create a uniform marinade.
- Add large unsweetened coconut flakes to the marinade, gently stirring to ensure each flake is completely coated with the seasoning mixture. Allow the coconut flakes to marinate for 5-7 minutes, which helps them absorb maximum flavor.
- Spread the marinated coconut flakes in a single, even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure the flakes are not overcrowded to ensure they crisp up properly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, stirring or flipping the flakes every 5 minutes to prevent burning and ensure even browning. Watch carefully as coconut can quickly go from perfectly crisp to burnt.
- Remove from the oven when the coconut flakes are golden brown and crispy. They will continue to crisp up slightly as they cool.
- Let the coconut bacon cool completely on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes. The cooling process helps them become extra crisp and develop a more intense flavor.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Use as a topping for salads, sandwiches, avocado toast, or as a crunchy snack.
Tips
- Choose the Right Coconut Flakes: Opt for large unsweetened coconut flakes for the best texture and flavor. Avoid sweetened varieties, as they won't provide the savory taste you're aiming for.
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the coconut flakes to marinate for at least 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial for letting the flavors soak in, ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness.
- Keep an Eye on the Oven: Coconut can burn quickly, so set a timer and check on your flakes every 5 minutes while baking. Stir or flip them to ensure even cooking and prevent any from getting too crispy.
- Cool for Extra Crispiness: After baking, let the coconut bacon cool completely on the baking sheet. This cooling period will help it crisp up even more, giving you that perfect crunch.
- Storage Tips: Store your coconut bacon in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This makes it easy to have a tasty topping ready whenever you need it!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
