The Contenders: Top Vegetarian Bacon Brands in Review
For many years, the search for a truly satisfying vegetarian bacon was a hit-or-miss affair. However, thanks to culinary innovation and ingredient advancements, today's market offers several excellent choices that cater to different tastes and dietary needs. Here, we review some of the most prominent brands, evaluating their strengths and weaknesses.
Umaro Bacon
Backed by a successful Shark Tank pitch, Umaro Foods utilizes a groundbreaking ingredient: red algae. This unique approach allows them to replicate the indulgent, fatty taste and texture of traditional bacon with remarkable accuracy. The result is a strip that crisps up beautifully and delivers a convincing, meaty bite. Umaro is a top choice for those seeking the most authentic experience, though its availability can be more limited, often found in specialty stores like Whole Foods or select restaurants.
Hooray Foods Plant Based Bacon
Hooray Foods earns high marks for its realism in both appearance and taste, thanks to its fungi-based recipe. Reviewers consistently praise its ability to produce a satisfying sizzle and a balance of chewy and crispy textures when cooked. It is free from soy, gluten, and nitrates, catering to a wider range of dietary needs. Its coconut oil base provides the fat needed to cook, eliminating the need for extra oil in the pan. This option is a fantastic all-rounder for those prioritizing a truly bacon-like experience.
Morningstar Farms Veggie Bacon Strips
As one of the original plant-based bacon alternatives, Morningstar Farms remains a widely available and popular choice. Made from soy protein, these strips are known for their classic smoky and salty flavor and their ability to get nicely crispy. The signature red and white swirl gives them a traditional bacon appearance. Note that Morningstar contains egg and milk ingredients, so it is vegetarian but not vegan. Its widespread availability in most grocery stores makes it a convenient and affordable option for many.
Lightlife Smart Bacon
Lightlife's Smart Bacon is another classic in the plant-based category. Made from wheat gluten and soy protein, it offers a chewy texture that can be fried to a satisfying crisp. The flavor is smoky and savory with a slight sweetness, making it a versatile option for sandwiches, toast, or breakfast plates. It is one of the more economical and easy-to-find brands, a great entry point for those new to vegetarian bacon.
Tofurky Smoky Maple Bacon
Tofurky's take on bacon uses tempeh, a fermented soy product, as its base. While it doesn't aim to perfectly mimic the texture of pork bacon, it offers a substantial, protein-rich experience with a deliciously smoky and sweet maple flavor. Tofurky Tempeh Bacon is best for those who enjoy the specific taste and denser texture of tempeh and want a high-protein breakfast side or sandwich ingredient. Steaming the tempeh before marinating can help it absorb more flavor.
Thrilling Foods Bakon Strips
Made from thick-cut, salt-cured, and smoked tofu, Thrilling Foods Bakon offers a hefty strip with an authentic flavor profile. It provides a substantial, crispy texture that stands up well in dishes. Like Umaro, it is considered a premium brand, with a price point to match. Fans praise its deep smoky taste and satisfying bite.
How to Choose Your Perfect Vegetarian Bacon
Selecting the best vegetarian bacon depends on your specific preferences and how you plan to use it. Consider these key factors before you buy:
- Flavor Profile: Do you prefer a smoky, sweet, or savory taste? Brands range from subtle smoky notes (Tofurky) to rich, bold flavors (Thrilling Foods).
- Texture: The holy grail for many. Some prefer a chewy texture, while others crave the classic crispiness. Brands like Umaro and Hooray excel at crispiness, while Tofurky offers a denser, chewier bite.
- Ingredients: Be mindful of allergies. Many products are soy-based, while others use wheat gluten (seitan) or other less common ingredients like fungi (Hooray) or algae (Umaro). Always check the label for allergens like soy, wheat, egg, and dairy.
- Nutritional Value: Most vegetarian bacon is lower in saturated fat and cholesterol than traditional bacon. However, sodium content can vary, so compare labels if you are watching your intake.
- Versatility: Think about your intended use. For a classic BLT, a crispy strip like Umaro might be best. For adding a smoky flavor to a salad or baked potato, crumbles from brands like All Y'alls Foods or Vivera might be ideal.
Vegetarian Bacon Comparison Table
| Brand | Main Ingredient | Flavor Profile | Texture | Best For... | Availability | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Umaro Bacon | Red Algae | Salty, Smoky, Fatty | Crispy & Chewy | Realistic texture, indulgence | Whole Foods, Restaurants | Soy-free, gluten-free |
| Hooray Foods | Fungi, Coconut Oil | Smoky, Savory, Sweet | Chewy & Crispy | Versatile, sandwiches, snacks | Whole Foods, online | Soy-free, gluten-free |
| Morningstar Farms | Soy Protein, Egg, Milk | Smoky, Salty, Classic | Crispy | Classic taste, affordability | Widespread | Contains dairy and egg |
| Lightlife Smart Bacon | Wheat Gluten, Soy | Smoky, Slightly Sweet | Chewy, Crisp-able | Sandwiches, easy cooking | Widespread, economical | Contains soy and wheat |
| Tofurky Tempeh | Tempeh (Soy) | Smoky, Maple, Sweet | Chewy, Dense | Protein source, tempeh lovers | Natural Food Stores | Contains soy |
| Thrilling Foods Bakon | Tofu | Smoky, Rich, Peppery | Hefty, Crispy | Rich flavor, substantial | Select stores, online | Gluten-free, soy-based |
| La Vie Bacon Rashers | Soya Protein | Smoky, Savoury | Chewy & Crispy | Realism, versatility | UK (Whole Foods UK, etc.) | Gluten-free, realistic fat |
Cooking Tips for the Crispiest Vegetarian Bacon
- Blotting is Key: For some wetter brands, like Morningstar Farms, gently blotting the strips with a paper towel before cooking can help achieve maximum crispiness.
- Use a Non-Stick Pan: A high-quality non-stick pan is crucial for preventing delicate strips from tearing or sticking, especially with brands like Hooray Foods.
- Low and Slow: Many brands, especially tempeh-based ones, benefit from lower heat and longer cooking times. This allows the flavor to develop and the texture to firm up without burning.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in small batches to ensure even cooking and crisping. Overcrowding can cause the bacon to steam instead of fry.
- Air Fryer Advantage: For ultimate convenience and uniform crispiness, many vegetarian bacons perform exceptionally well in an air fryer. For instance, Umaro Bacon crisps up perfectly in just a couple of minutes.
Conclusion: Finding Your Personal Best Vegetarian Bacon
There is no single answer to the question of who makes the best vegetarian bacon. The ideal choice is a personal one, depending on your priorities for taste, texture, and ingredients. If you seek the most realistic, meaty experience, newer brands like Umaro and Hooray Foods are leading the pack, using fungi and algae for innovation. For a widely available and affordable option that delivers a reliable, crispy result, Morningstar Farms remains a stalwart, though it is not vegan. Those who prefer the earthy, dense texture of tempeh will find Tofurky a satisfying, protein-packed choice. Experimenting with a few different brands, guided by the reviews and comparison table, is the best way to find your perfect vegetarian bacon. Remember to consider your desired application, whether for a sandwich, a breakfast plate, or a salad topping, to make the right selection.
For further reading on plant-based food innovation, check out this guide from VegNews.
