Carrot bacon, also known as vegan bacon, has become a popular plant-based alternative to traditional bacon. Made with thin slices of carrots marinated in a flavorful mixture, it offers a satisfyingly crispy texture and savory taste that can be enjoyed on its own or incorporated into various dishes.
Here’s a guide to making your own delicious carrot bacon at home:
Ingredients:
- 2 large carrots
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or vegan alternative)
- 1 tablespoon liquid smoke (optional)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Prep the carrots: Wash and peel the carrots. Using a mandoline slicer or a sharp vegetable peeler, slice them lengthwise into thin, even strips. Aim for them to be about the thickness of bacon slices.
- Marinate the magic: In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, olive oil, maple syrup, liquid smoke (if using), smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Add the carrot strips to the marinade and toss to coat them evenly. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to an hour for deeper flavor.
- Baking or air-frying: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the marinated carrot strips in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring they don’t overlap. Alternatively, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Crispy transformation: Bake the carrot strips for 10-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they become crispy and slightly browned. If using an air fryer, cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket occasionally for even cooking.
- Enjoy! Once the carrot bacon is golden brown and crispy, remove it from the oven or air fryer and let it cool slightly. Enjoy it on its own as a snack, crumble it over salads, or use it as a topping for sandwiches, wraps, or vegan BLTs.
Tips:
- For a sweeter and smokier flavor, add a pinch of brown sugar to the marinade.
- Experiment with different spices like cayenne pepper for a kick or nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste.
- To ensure even crisping, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet or air fryer basket.
- Let the carrot bacon cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
With this simple recipe, you can easily create your own delicious and healthy carrot bacon at home. So, ditch the traditional bacon and give this plant-based alternative a try!