Crispy Smoky Tempeh Bacon Strips

Name: Crispy Smoky Tempeh Bacon Strips
Yield: 3 to 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 block (8 oz) fresh tempeh; 3 tbsp tamari; 1½ tbsp maple syrup; 2½ tsp liquid smoke; 1½ tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar; 1 tbsp olive oil + ½ tbsp for pan; 2½ tsp toasted sesame oil; ¾ tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp onion powder; ¼ tsp cayenne; ¼ tsp kosher salt; smoked sea salt for finishing

June 19, 2026

Crispy Smoky Tempeh Bacon Strips is a soy-free tempeh breakfast made with fresh, fermented chickpea tempeh instead of soy. A few simple swaps keep it gluten-free, too.

3 to 4 servings · Soy-free · Gluten-free option

Why fermented chickpea tempeh

This recipe is built on our fresh chickpea tempeh, which is fermented rather than pasteurized, so the culture stays active and the flavor stays full. It is naturally soy-free and holds its texture through cooking.

Ingredients

1 block (8 oz) fresh tempeh
3 tbsp tamari
1½ tbsp maple syrup
2½ tsp liquid smoke
1½ tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp olive oil + ½ tbsp for pan
2½ tsp toasted sesame oil
¾ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp onion powder
¼ tsp cayenne
¼ tsp kosher salt
smoked sea salt for finishing

Instructions

Slice thin. No thicker than ⅛”. Placing the block in the freezer for 20 min before slicing gives cleaner cuts.
Marinade. Whisk all liquid ingredients and spices together in a shallow dish.
Marinate. Add strips, toss to coat, seal in a zip bag or cover. 30 to 45 min maximum.
Pan-fry. Medium heat (not high). ½ tbsp oil. Work in flat batches, 2 to 3 min per side until deep brown and caramelized.
Finish. Rest on wire rack. While hot, pinch of smoked sea salt over each strip.

Make it with

This pairs with Tempeh Bacon. Start from a block of OG Raw Chickpea Tempeh (shop it here). Short on time? Reach for our heat-and-serve Tempeh Bacon BLT.

Allergen swaps

Tamari → coconut aminos (soy-free). Sesame oil → toasted pumpkin seed oil (sesame-free), note: omitting sesame oil changes the flavor profile but remains delicious.

Frequently asked questions

Is Crispy Smoky Tempeh Bacon Strips soy-free?

Yes. Our tempeh is fermented from chickpeas, not soybeans, so this recipe is naturally soy-free. Check any packaged sauces or condiments if soy is a strict concern.

How do I make it gluten-free?

The tempeh itself is gluten-free. Use gluten-free bread, tamari, or noodles wherever the recipe calls for the standard version, and confirm any packaged sauces are gluten-free.