Transform your typical eggplant into a smoky, crispy delight that mimics the flavor and texture of bacon. This recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy a plant-based alternative without sacrificing taste. Whether you're adding it to a sandwich, salad, or enjoying it on its own, this crispy eggplant bacon will not disappoint.
Some ingredients in this recipe might not be staples in every kitchen. Liquid smoke is a key component that gives the eggplant its smoky flavor, and it can usually be found in the condiment aisle of most supermarkets. Smoked paprika is another essential ingredient that adds depth to the flavor profile, and it can be found in the spice section. Make sure to check these sections if you don't already have these items at home.
Ingredients For Crispy Eggplant Bacon Recipe
Eggplant: The main ingredient, sliced thinly to achieve a crispy texture.
Olive oil: Helps to coat the eggplant slices and aids in the crisping process.
Soy sauce: Adds a salty, umami flavor to the eggplant.
Maple syrup: Provides a touch of sweetness and helps with caramelization.
Smoked paprika: Adds a smoky flavor that mimics traditional bacon.
Garlic powder: Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of garlic.
Onion powder: Adds a subtle onion flavor to the mix.
Liquid smoke: Gives the eggplant a deep, smoky flavor that is essential for this recipe.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
To achieve the perfect crispiness for your eggplant bacon, make sure to slice the eggplant as thinly and uniformly as possible. Using a mandoline slicer can help ensure consistent thickness, which is crucial for even cooking. Additionally, after coating the slices in the marinade, let them sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors fully before baking. This will enhance the smoky, savory taste and ensure each slice is packed with flavor.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
Eggplant - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini has a similar texture and can be sliced thinly to achieve a crispy result.
Olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good alternative for frying or baking.
Soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and has a similar umami flavor.
Maple syrup - Substitute with agave nectar: Agave nectar is a vegan sweetener with a similar consistency and sweetness level to maple syrup.
Smoked paprika - Substitute with chipotle powder: Chipotle powder provides a smoky flavor similar to smoked paprika, with an added hint of heat.
Garlic powder - Substitute with granulated garlic: Granulated garlic has a similar flavor profile and can be used in the same quantity as garlic powder.
Onion powder - Substitute with granulated onion: Granulated onion offers a similar taste and texture to onion powder.
Liquid smoke - Substitute with smoked salt: Smoked salt can provide a smoky flavor similar to liquid smoke, though it may add a bit more saltiness to the dish.
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How to Store / Freeze This Recipe
Allow the crispy eggplant bacon to cool completely before storing. This helps maintain its crispiness and prevents condensation from making it soggy.
Store the eggplant bacon in an airtight container. A glass container with a tight-fitting lid works best to keep the flavors intact.
If you plan to consume it within a few days, keep the container in the refrigerator. The eggplant bacon should stay fresh for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, consider freezing. Place the eggplant bacon slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. This prevents them from sticking together.
Once frozen, transfer the eggplant bacon to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
When ready to use, reheat the eggplant bacon in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. This will help restore its crispiness.
Avoid microwaving as it can make the eggplant bacon rubbery instead of crispy.
If you notice any moisture in the container, place a paper towel inside to absorb it and keep the eggplant bacon dry.
For added flavor, you can sprinkle a bit more smoked paprika or garlic powder before reheating.
How to Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover eggplant bacon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
Use a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of olive oil to the pan and reheat the eggplant bacon slices for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they regain their crispiness.
For a quick method, use a microwave. Place the eggplant bacon on a microwave-safe plate lined with a paper towel. Heat on high for 30-60 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the eggplant bacon slices in a single layer and air fry for 2-3 minutes, or until they are crispy and heated through.
Toaster ovens work well too. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the eggplant bacon on a baking tray and heat for 5-7 minutes, or until they are crispy and warm.
Best Tools for This Recipe
Oven: Used to bake the eggplant slices until they are crispy.
Baking sheet: Holds the eggplant slices while they bake in the oven.
Parchment paper: Prevents the eggplant slices from sticking to the baking sheet.
Mixing bowl: Used to combine the olive oil, soy sauce, maple syrup, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and liquid smoke.
Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurement of ingredients like olive oil, soy sauce, maple syrup, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and liquid smoke.
Knife: Slices the eggplant thinly.
Cutting board: Provides a surface to slice the eggplant.
Tongs: Helps flip the eggplant slices halfway through baking.
Cooling rack: Allows the eggplant slices to cool slightly after baking.
How to Save Time on Making This Recipe
Pre-slice the eggplant: Slice the eggplant ahead of time and store it in the fridge to save prep time.
Use a mandoline: A mandoline slicer ensures uniform slices quickly, making the baking process more efficient.
Mix marinade in advance: Prepare the marinade a day before and store it in an airtight container.
Batch baking: Use multiple baking sheets to cook all the slices at once, reducing overall cooking time.
Line with parchment: Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper speeds up cleanup.
Crispy Eggplant Bacon Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 large eggplant sliced thinly
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon liquid smoke
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, soy sauce, maple syrup, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and liquid smoke.
- Dip each eggplant slice into the mixture, ensuring both sides are coated, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the eggplant is crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Nutritional Value
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