Vacon Bits

When I tell someone I'm vegan one of the most common (and annoying) comments I get is, "I would totally go vegan! But I could never give up bacon, you know?" No, I'm sorry, I don't know. Sure I miss the flavor and texture bacon brings to a dish, but I would much rather spend a couple of hours trying to replicate the flavor of bacon, than eat a dead pig. "You know?" ;)

So here it goes, vegan bacon bits, loaded with smoky, salty goodness and plenty of protein. These babies are great for adding to baked potatoes, creamy soups and casseroles.

Ingredients:

1/2 Cup TVP + 1/2 Cup hot water (TVP can be purchased online, at health food stores or bulk stores)

1 tsp soy sauce (Use gluten free if needed)

1/4 tsp liquid smoke

1 tbsp coconut sugar

1/4 tsp garlic powder

1/4 tsp onion powder

3/4 tsp smoked paprika

5 cranks lemon pepper (Trader Joe's Brand)

1/2 tsp sea salt* Save until the end, taste the vacon bits once they're cooked and add salt slowly as needed

Method:

In a small bow combine TVP, hot water & soy sauce. Allow TVP to soak up liquid. Add remaining spices and stir. In a small pan or cast iron skillet over medium/high heat fry up in the vacon in a bit of your favorite oil (I used avocado). *If you are on an oil free diet, you can try to bake them, but I cannot speak to the results.

The frying should take about 5 minutes, the goal is to let the spices become fragrant and for the bits to get slightly crisp. Sprinkle over your favorite dish, and enjoy! :)

Remember; The best things in life are (cruelty) free!