This air fryer vegan bacon is a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional bacon. Made from simple plant-based ingredients, it delivers a satisfying crunch and smoky flavor that can enhance a variety of dishes.
The recipe is quick and easy, perfect for breakfast or as a topping for salads and sandwiches. With just a few steps, you can enjoy crispy vegan bacon in no time.
Deliciously Crispy Vegan Bacon
Vegan bacon has become a popular choice for those seeking a plant-based alternative to traditional bacon.
This crispy delight offers a satisfying crunch and a smoky flavor that can elevate any meal.
Whether enjoyed on its own or as a topping, it’s a versatile addition to many dishes.
Quick Preparation for Busy Lives
Making vegan bacon in an air fryer is a straightforward process that takes around 20 minutes from start to finish.
With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a delicious snack or breakfast option in no time.
This recipe serves four, making it perfect for sharing or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Ingredients that Pack Flavor
The base of this vegan bacon can be either rice paper or tempeh, both of which absorb the marinade beautifully.
A blend of soy sauce, maple syrup, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper creates a savory and slightly sweet glaze.
These ingredients come together to provide a rich flavor profile that mimics the taste of traditional bacon.
Marinating for Maximum Flavor
To achieve that perfect smoky glaze, marinating is key.
If using rice paper, cut it into strips and dip each piece into the marinade.
For tempeh, soaking the slices in the marinade for about 10 minutes allows the flavors to penetrate deeply.
Air Frying to Perfection
Preheating the air fryer ensures that the bacon cooks evenly and achieves that desired crispiness.
Arranging the marinated strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket is essential for optimal results.
A light spray of cooking oil helps enhance the crispiness while keeping the dish healthy.
Serving Suggestions
Once the vegan bacon is cooked to perfection, it can be enjoyed in various ways.
Serve it alongside fresh avocado slices for a nutritious breakfast or add it to salads and sandwiches for an extra crunch.
The combination of flavors and textures makes this dish a delightful addition to any meal.
Quick and Easy Vegan Bacon in the Air Fryer

This vegan bacon is made from rice paper or tempeh, marinated in a savory blend of spices and sauces, then air-fried until crispy. The recipe takes about 20 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 4 sheets of rice paper or 8 ounces of tempeh, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or oil for the air fryer
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together soy sauce, maple syrup, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Marinate the Bacon: If using rice paper, cut it into strips and dip each strip into the marinade. If using tempeh, soak the slices in the marinade for about 10 minutes.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Air Fry the Bacon: Place the marinated rice paper or tempeh strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray with cooking oil. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.
- Serve: Remove the vegan bacon from the air fryer and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it in sandwiches, salads, or as a snack.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 70kcal
- Fat: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 10g