Maple-Glazed Plant-Based “Bacon” Strips

What it replaces: Crispy breakfast bacon

Ease: ★★★★★ (very easy)
Flavour Profiles: Smoky, sweet, umami, crispy

Image from Caroline Ross (Unsplash)

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Textured Soy Protein (TSP) flakes (e.g., Ontario-made)
  • 1 tbsp Maple syrup (Quebec)
  • 1 tbsp Tamari or soy sauce
  • 1 tsp Smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp Neutral oil (canola/rapeseed – Prairie-grown)
  • ½ tsp Liquid smoke (optional)
  • Pinch of black pepper

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes

Directions:

  1. In a bowl, hydrate the TSP flakes with ½ cup warm water until soft.
  2. Mix maple syrup, tamari, smoked paprika, oil, and liquid smoke in a separate bowl.
  3. Drain the TSP lightly and toss it into the marinade until fully coated.
  4. Spread onto a baking tray lined with parchment.
  5. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.
  6. Let cool slightly — it crisps as it cools.