Save My kitchen smelled like a diner on a Sunday morning, except no one was frying actual bacon. I had just discovered tempeh could do that crispy, smoky thing everyone misses when they go plant-based, and I was determined to prove it. The skillet sizzled, the maple syrup caramelized into the soy sauce, and suddenly I understood why people get emotional about breakfast food. This sandwich became my answer to anyone who said vegan food was boring.
I made this for my skeptical brother who swore he could never give up bacon. He took one bite, paused, then asked for the recipe before he even finished chewing. Watching him go back for a second half without a single complaint felt like winning a tiny, delicious battle. Sometimes the best way to share what you love is just to feed people really good food.
Ingredients
- Tempeh: This fermented soy product holds up to marinating and frying better than tofu, giving you that chewy, crispy bite that mimics bacon beautifully.
- Soy sauce: The salty backbone of the marinade, it deepens the umami and helps the tempeh brown to perfection.
- Maple syrup: Balances the saltiness with a hint of sweetness and aids in caramelization during cooking.
- Smoked paprika: This is your shortcut to that campfire, smoky flavor without needing a grill.
- Liquid smoke: Optional but powerful, just a few drops amplify the bacon-like quality dramatically.
- Sourdough bread: The slight tang and sturdy texture hold up to grilling and complement the richness of the filling.
- Vegan cheese: Look for one that melts well, brands like Violife or Follow Your Heart work wonders here.
- Tomato: Use a ripe but firm tomato so it doesn't make your sandwich soggy.
- Lettuce: Crisp varieties like romaine add a refreshing crunch that cuts through the richness.
- Vegan butter: Essential for achieving that golden, crispy exterior on your grilled cheese.
Instructions
- Marinate the tempeh:
- Whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, olive oil, smoked paprika, liquid smoke, garlic powder, and black pepper in a bowl. Toss in your tempeh strips and let them soak for 10 minutes, turning occasionally so every piece gets coated.
- Cook the tempeh bacon:
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the marinated tempeh strips. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until the edges turn dark and crispy, and your kitchen smells like a vegan brunch dream.
- Butter the bread:
- Spread vegan butter generously on one side of each slice of bread. This is what makes the outside golden and crackling when it hits the heat.
- Build your sandwiches:
- Lay two slices of bread buttered side down, then layer with vegan cheese, half the tempeh bacon, tomato slices, lettuce, and another slice of cheese. Top with the remaining bread, buttered side up.
- Grill to perfection:
- Place sandwiches in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-low heat. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted into gooey perfection.
- Slice and serve:
- Cut each sandwich in half diagonally and serve immediately while the cheese is still stretchy and warm.
Save One rainy afternoon, I made this sandwich with a pot of tomato soup simmering on the stove. The windows fogged up, the house smelled like comfort, and I realized this was the kind of meal that turns a gray day golden. Food like this doesn't need an occasion, it creates one.
Choosing Your Bread
Sourdough is my go-to because of its tangy flavor and sturdy crumb, but any hearty bread works beautifully here. Whole grain adds nuttiness, ciabatta brings airiness, and gluten-free options mean no one has to miss out. Just make sure it's thick enough to hold all the fillings without falling apart when you press it in the pan.
Vegan Cheese Tips
Not all vegan cheeses melt the same way, so experiment to find your favorite. I've had the best luck with block-style slices rather than shreds, and letting them come to room temperature before cooking helps them melt faster. If your cheese is stubborn, cover the skillet with a lid for the last minute to trap the heat and encourage melting.
Serving Suggestions
This sandwich is hearty enough to stand alone, but it shines next to a bowl of creamy tomato soup or a simple green salad with a lemony vinaigrette. I've also served it with sweet potato fries and a side of pickles for crunch. If you're feeding a crowd, cut the sandwiches into quarters and serve them as an appetizer, they disappear fast.
- Add avocado slices for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
- Try a smear of vegan mayo or Dijon mustard on the inside for a tangy kick.
- Swap the lettuce for arugula if you want a peppery bite.
Save This sandwich proves that plant-based eating can be indulgent, nostalgic, and deeply satisfying all at once. I hope it becomes a favorite in your kitchen the way it has in mine.
Questions & Answers
- → Can I prepare the tempeh bacon ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the tempeh strips up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Cook them fresh when you're ready to assemble your sandwiches for the best texture and flavor.
- → What's the best way to achieve crispy tempeh bacon?
Use a non-stick skillet over medium heat and allow the marinated tempeh to cook 2-3 minutes per side without moving it around too much. This creates a caramelized, crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.
- → How do I prevent the vegan cheese from not melting properly?
Ensure your skillet is at medium-low heat and press gently on the sandwich while cooking. Give it 3-4 minutes per side. Some vegan cheeses melt better than others, so experimenting with different brands can help you find your favorite.
- → Can I make this sandwich without liquid smoke?
Absolutely. While liquid smoke adds authentic smoky flavor, you can skip it and increase the smoked paprika to 1.5 teaspoons for a similar effect. The sandwich will still be delicious and flavorful.
- → What vegan butter works best for grilling?
Look for vegan butters with higher fat content, as they brown more evenly and create a crispier crust. Coconut oil-based or soy-based vegan butters typically perform well. Avoid spreads with too much water content.
- → How can I make this more filling for a hearty meal?
Add avocado slices for creaminess and healthy fats, include extra tempeh bacon strips, or serve alongside a warm bowl of tomato soup or a substantial green salad to create a more complete meal.