📝 Why I Love This Recipe
This one takes me back to diner lunches, but now I make it my way.
The tempeh bacon is smoky and savory. The fresh veggies keep it crisp and bright.
And the combo of everything on toasted bread? Unreal.
- It’s fast, filling, and totally satisfying
- You get all the textures: chewy, crispy, juicy
- Great way to get protein without meat
- Easy to prep ahead for weekday meals
- Feels nostalgic but totally plant-based
👨🍳 What You’ll Need
Tempeh Bacon Marinade & Bacon
- 1 (8 oz) block tempeh, sliced thin
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Sandwich
- 8 slices of whole grain or sourdough bread
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- 4 romaine lettuce leaves or butter lettuce
- Vegan mayo (about 1/2 cup)
- Optional: avocado slices
📝 Why I Love This Recipe
This one takes me back to diner lunches, but now I make it my way. The tempeh bacon is smoky and savory. The fresh veggies keep it crisp and bright. And the combo of everything on toasted bread? Unreal.
- It’s fast, filling, and totally satisfying
- You get all the textures: chewy, crispy, juicy
- Great way to get protein without meat
- Easy to prep ahead for weekday meals
- Feels nostalgic but totally plant-based
🔥 Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
Tempeh is packed with protein and absorbs flavor like a sponge. The marinade uses a mix of sweet (maple), salty (soy), acidic (vinegar), and umami (smoked paprika) to create a bacon-y vibe. Cooking it until crisp brings out the perfect texture.
⏱️ Servings + Time
Serves: 4 sandwiches
Total Time: 30 minutes (20 mins prep + 10 mins cooking)
🥪 How to Make Vegan BLT with Tempeh Bacon
Step 1: Slice the Tempeh
Slice the tempeh block into thin strips—about 1/4 inch thick so they get crispy later.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper.
Step 3: Marinate the Tempeh
Place sliced tempeh in a shallow dish or container. Pour marinade over top. Let it sit for 15 minutes, flipping once to soak both sides.
Step 4: Cook the Tempeh Bacon
Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add a little olive oil and cook the marinated tempeh slices for 3–4 minutes per side until browned and slightly crispy.
Step 5: Toast the Bread
Toast bread slices to your desired crispness. Light golden is best for crunch without scratching the roof of your mouth!
Step 6: Assemble the Sandwich
Spread vegan mayo on toasted bread. Layer with crispy tempeh bacon, lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and optional avocado. Top with second slice of bread and press gently.
📦 Leftovers + Storage
Store leftover tempeh bacon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or toaster oven for best texture. Assemble sandwiches fresh for best results.
🧠 Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Slicing the tempeh too thick – You want thin strips for that crispy bite
- Skipping the marinade time – It really matters for flavor
- Overcooking the tempeh – It can go from crisp to dry fast
- Not toasting the bread – Adds the crunch that makes it feel like a real BLT
🥗 What to Serve With
- Dill pickles or pickle chips
- Sweet potato fries or regular fries
- Simple side salad with lemon vinaigrette
- A cold pasta salad or quinoa tabbouleh
- Sparkling water with lemon or unsweet tea
🍽️ Meal Plan Ideas
- Make a big batch of tempeh bacon and use it in wraps, grain bowls, or breakfast toast
- Use leftover sandwich fixings for a BLT salad
- Pack it for work lunch with a side of fruit and nuts
- Make mini versions on sliders for a party snack
❓FAQ
Can I use tofu instead of tempeh?
Yes, but press it well and slice it thin. It won’t have the same chewy texture as tempeh.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Use gluten-free bread and tamari instead of soy sauce.
Can I make it oil-free?
Yes—skip the oil in the marinade and dry-toast the tempeh. It won’t crisp quite the same but will still be tasty.
What does tempeh taste like?
It has a nutty, earthy flavor and a hearty texture. It soaks up the marinade really well.
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