Baked > Vegetarian

Baked Eggplant Bacon Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 large eggplant, sliced into thin strips
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon liquid smoke
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste

Special Equipment Needed:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, maple syrup, liquid smoke, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

4. Dip each eggplant slice into the mixture, making sure to coat both sides.

5. Place the coated eggplant slices onto the prepared baking sheet.

6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through, until they are crispy and browned.

7. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.


Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Temperature:
375°F (190°C)
Serving size:
4 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 78
Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 2g
Sodium: 1135mg
Sugar: 13g
Fiber: 3g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Tamari or coconut aminos can be used instead of soy sauce.
- Agave nectar or honey can be used instead of maple syrup.
- Smoked sea salt can be used instead of liquid smoke.

Variations:
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Use zucchini or portobello mushrooms instead of eggplant.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to slice the eggplant thinly for a crispy texture.
- Use a mandoline slicer for even slices.
- If the eggplant slices are too thick, they will take longer to cook and may not be as crispy.

Storage Instructions:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
- Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy.

Presentation Ideas:
- Serve on a platter with fresh herbs and sliced vegetables.

Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro.

Pairings:
- Serve with avocado toast or a tofu scramble for a vegan breakfast.

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Roasted sweet potatoes or a side salad.

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the eggplant slices are not crispy enough, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to wash the eggplant thoroughly before slicing.

Food History:
- Eggplant bacon is a vegan alternative to traditional bacon and has become popular in recent years as more people adopt plant-based diets.

Flavor Profiles:
- Smoky, salty, and slightly sweet.

Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a vegan bacon alternative in sandwiches, wraps, or salads.

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Taste: Savory, Smoky, Salty, Tangy, Rich, Earthy