House Tempeh Bacon is a soy-free tempeh breakfast made with fresh, fermented chickpea tempeh instead of soy. A few simple swaps keep it gluten-free, too.
About 18 Strips · Soy-free · Gluten-free option
Why fermented chickpea tempeh
Fermented chickpea tempeh is the backbone here: soy-free, nutty, and protein-dense, with a firm bite that crisps and browns instead of falling apart.
Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh tempeh
- 3 tbsp tamari
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- ¾ tsp liquid smoke
- 1 tbsp neutral oil
- 1½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- pinch cayenne (optional)
Instructions
- Slice. Cut block into ~18 thin strips, approximately ⅛” thick.
- Marinate. Whisk all marinade ingredients together. Add strips in a single layer. Marinate 20 to 30 min maximum.
- 3a. Pan method: Thin film of oil, medium-high heat. Cook 2 min per side until dark and caramelized. Strips crisp further as they cool on a wire rack.
- 3b. Oven method: Preheat oven to 375°F. Parchment-lined sheet pan. 12 min, flip, 8 to 10 more min. Watch the last 3 min carefully, maple sugar burns fast.
Chef note: Commercial recipes use 1½ tsp because pasteurized tempeh needs flavor masking. Fresh tempeh has natural depth, ¾ tsp adds smoke without overwhelming the fermented character. Taste your tempeh before cooking; adjust from there.
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).
Frequently asked questions
Is House Tempeh Bacon 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.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes. Components keep well in the fridge for a day or two. For the best texture, sear or crisp the tempeh fresh before serving.
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