Smoked Tempeh Breakfast Sandwich
This smoked tempeh breakfast sandwich is so good because it combines the rich, smoky flavor of tempeh bacon with fresh, wholesome ingredients, creating a delicious and satisfying morning meal. Packed with plant-based protein and nutrients, it’s a healthy and flavorful way to start your day.
On weekend mornings we have certain breakfasts that we love like these easy oil-free breakfast potatoes and my healthy homemade grits, and when we want a breakfast sandwich, this recipe is our go-to.
Smoked tempeh is great on these healthy breakfast sandwiches and on Smoked Tempeh Sandwich (T.L.T.) – Tempeh, Lettuce, & Tomato too!
Reasons I love this vegan breakfast sandwich
- Flavorful and Satisfying: The smoky tempeh bacon provides a rich, savory taste that perfectly complements the fresh, wholesome ingredients, making each bite deliciously satisfying.
- Nutrient-Packed and Healthy: This sandwich is made with plant-based protein and nutrient-dense ingredients, offering a healthy, balanced meal to kickstart your day with energy and nourishment.
- Quick and Easy to Prepare: Simple to assemble and ready in minutes, this breakfast sandwich is perfect for busy mornings when you need a nutritious and tasty meal without the hassle.
Ingredients you will need
- Tempeh- Protein-packed with a nutty, chewy flavor perfect for making meatless bacon.
- Soy sauce- This is what gives a salty flavor that resembles traditional bacon.
- Liquid smoke– The smoky flavor of this vegan bacon is achieved with liquid smoke, so don’t leave it out.
- Maple syrup- Add the perfectly sweet flavor needed.
- Sandwich- English muffins make great sandwiches for this vegan bacon or try our Homemade Oil-Free Whole Wheat Bagels.
How to make a smoked tempeh breakfast sandwich
The recipe card at the bottom of the page has the full list of ingredients with measurements and instructions.
STEP #1: In a medium bowl, combine all marinade ingredients, and mix well. Whisk all ingredients in a bowl, add tempeh, and allow it to marinate for a few hours or even overnight.
STEP #2: Slice the tempeh into slabs. Some people like to steam their tempeh before marinating and cooking, but I have not found that necessary.
STEP #3: Place the tempeh strips in a container or even a ziplock bag and pour the marinade over the top. Cover and seal well, place in the refrigerator, and allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes. Longer is better. I like to leave mine overnight.
STEP #4: Once marinated well, place the strips in a nonstick frying pan on medium-high heat and brown on both sides until golden. I love my Ozeri nonstick pan and use it almost every single day for recipes like this. About 5 minutes on each side is a reasonable estimate. If baking in the oven, cook at 350 for 20-25 minutes.
STEP #5: Toast an English muffin or bagel. I have a terrific recipe for Homemade Whole Wheat Bagels that is perfect for making a tempeh bacon breakfast sandwich.
Add a smear of my Eggless Low-Fat Mayo, mustard, and fresh spinach leaves. Serve and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
You can, but you don’t have to. I used to steam my tempeh before preparing it for a recipe, but have found that it isn’t necessary. It does not taste bitter to me at all, so no steaming is required.
Tempeh can be found in many US grocery stores in the produce section. In other countries, you should be able to purchase it at Asian markets or health food stores.
Yes, tempeh can be eaten raw, but it doesn’t taste great on its own. Marinating and cooking are recommended to bring out even more flavor.
If you try this recipe, please let us know how you like it by rating it and leaving a comment. We love to hear from you!
Want to Save This Recipe?
Enter your email & I'll send it to your inbox. Plus, get great new recipes from me every week!
By submitting this form, you consent to receive emails from EatPlant-Based
Smoked Tempeh Breakfast Sandwich
Ingredients
- 1 8 oz package tempeh found in many grocery stores
- 1/4 cup tamari or soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons liquid smoke
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- spinach or kale leaves
- low-fat eggless mayo recipe link below
- mustard (optional)
- 4 English muffins or bagels
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine soy sauce, liquid smoke, and maple syrup and mix well.
- Slice tempeh into strips. Place slices into mixture and allow to marinate. The longer, the stronger the flavor will be. I like to leave it in the refrigerator overnight if possible, but at least 30 minutes is necessary.
- Add tempeh strips to a frying pan with a little bit of the marinade liquid and cook over medium-high heat until crispy on one side. Turn and brown on the other side. Add more of the marinade and cook until caramelized. About 5 minutes each side is a reasonable estimate. If baking in the oven, cook at 350 for 20-25 minutes.
- Toast your English muffins (or don't). Add a little Eggless Low-Fat Mayo, mustard, and kale (or spinach).
- Add tempeh bacon and serve.
Video
Notes
- I used to steam my tempeh before preparing it for a recipe, but have found that it isn’t necessary. It does not taste bitter to me at all, so no steaming is required.
- Simply place in a non-stick pan and cook until golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Tempeh Bacon is also great on English Breakfast Muffins and Smoked Tempeh Sandwiches.
- It also pairs well with my Tofu Breakfast Scramble.
Nutrition
Disclaimer
To obtain the most accurate representation of the nutritional information in a given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients used in your recipe, using your preferred nutrition calculator. You are solely responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information provided is accurate, complete, and useful.
About Terri Edwards
Hi guys! I am the content creator behind EatPlant-Based and a licensed Food for Life instructor with the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine. I am passionate about sharing healthy recipes and tips to empower others to get healthy. I’m so glad you’re here! Read More…
What brand of Tempeh do you use that is isn’t bitter?
Hi Elizabeth- I use LightHouse tempeh most of the time. If yours has a bitter taste, maybe try steaming it first.
Thank you Terri! I am always looking for recipes with tempeh and this looks really delicious!