why make this recipe
Lentil Bacon is a fantastic plant-based option that allows you to enjoy a smoky and savory experience without any soy products. It’s packed with protein, making it a filling addition to meals. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or just looking to reduce meat in your diet, this recipe is an excellent choice. Plus, it’s simple to make with ingredients you likely have at home!
🧰 Kitchen tools commonly used in similar recipes
Before starting, many home cooks like to have these basic tools ready:
how to make Lentil Bacon
Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup uncooked red lentils (or other lentils; see notes)
- 1.5 cups boiling water
- 1.25 cups room temperature water
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1.5 tablespoons liquid smoke (available where most spices are sold)
- 4 teaspoons coconut sugar (see notes for options)
- 1.5 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjustable, according to needs/tastes)
- 3/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (dolce/sweet, not hot)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
Directions:
- Place the lentils in a colander or mesh sieve and rinse under cold water. This removes any dust or debris from the dried lentils.
- Combine the lentils and 1.5 cups boiling water in a heat-proof bowl. Let stand for 15 to 20 minutes until the lentils are plump and the water has cooled (do not drain).
- In a blender (high speed or regular), blend the lentil-water mixture, remaining 1.25 cups room temperature water, tomato paste, coconut sugar, liquid smoke, onion powder, salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper until completely smooth. Stop several times to scrape down the sides of the blender container.
- Pour the lentil mixture into a medium-size, heavy-bottomed saucepan. Whisk over medium heat for 8 to 9 minutes until the mixture is VERY THICK, glossy, and globs onto the whisk when lifted from the pan (turn heat down to medium, as needed).
- Scrape the mixture into a 9×5-inch (22.5×12.5 cm) loaf pan, smoothing the top (the pan does not need to be oiled).
- Refrigerate the bacon block, uncovered, for at least 90 minutes until completely cooled and very firm. (Alternatively, leave the bacon block in the refrigerator for up to 5 days until ready to use.)
- Cook & Serve the Bacon.
how to serve Lentil Bacon
Lentil Bacon can be enjoyed in many ways! You can slice it and add it to sandwiches, serve it on a salad, or crumble it over pasta dishes. It also pairs wonderfully with breakfast items like scrambled eggs or tofu. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite way to serve it!
how to store Lentil Bacon
To store your Lentil Bacon, keep it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to five days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Just ensure it’s tightly wrapped or stored in a freezer-safe container. It can be thawed and used whenever needed.
tips to make Lentil Bacon
- Ensure the lentils are well-rinsed before soaking to remove any impurities.
- You can adjust the spices according to your taste preferences. If you like it spicier, add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- If you can’t find liquid smoke, consider using smoked salt for a different flavor.
variation
You can try using different types of lentils. Green or brown lentils can also work but may alter the texture slightly. Additionally, adding herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the flavor.
FAQs
Can I use dried lentils instead of canned ones?
Yes, this recipe requires uncooked dried lentils, which are soaked and cooked to get the needed texture.
How long does the Lentil Bacon last?
It stays fresh in the refrigerator for about five days. You can freeze it for a longer shelf life.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just check the labels on your ingredients to ensure they’re certified gluten-free.
Print
Lentil Bacon
- Total Time: 115 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A fantastic plant-based bacon alternative that’s smoky, savory, and packed with protein.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup uncooked red lentils
- 1.5 cups boiling water
- 1.25 cups room temperature water
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1.5 tablespoons liquid smoke
- 4 teaspoons coconut sugar
- 1.5 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Rinse lentils under cold water in a colander.
- Combine lentils and boiling water in a heat-proof bowl; let stand for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Blend lentil-water mixture, remaining water, tomato paste, coconut sugar, liquid smoke, onion powder, salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth.
- Pour lentil mixture into a saucepan and whisk over medium heat for 8 to 9 minutes until very thick.
- Scrape mixture into a loaf pan, smoothing the top.
- Refrigerate uncovered for at least 90 minutes until firm.
Notes
Adjust spices to taste; consider using smoked salt if liquid smoke is unavailable. Experiment with different lentils for varied flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 2.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Lentil Bacon, Vegan, Plant-Based
