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I can't count how many times I have heard "I'd go vegan...but BACON!" Yup, bacon is pretty delicious. Most vegans didn't go vegan because they hated the taste of bacon. To be honest, I don't miss bacon at all despite loving it before - Because there a ton of vegan alternatives out there. I am obsessed with these crunchy cashew bacon bits.
Crunchy Cashew Bacon Bits
A little while ago, I shared with you my vegan bacon bits recipe that is made with sunflower seeds. It's a delicious topping for salads, but I knew there had to a better alternative that was more versatile and resembled bacon bits even more.
There is such thing as coconut bacon - and it's alright - but I'm not a huge fan.
I decided to test out a bacon bits recipe using nuts. I tried different variations and flavors using walnuts and cashews. Cashews were definitely the better option, having a more neutral flavor.
This recipe uses liquid smoke, liquid aminos (or light soy sauce), smoked paprika and maple syrup to achieve that bacon-y taste. (P.S. Try to find a natural liquid smoke - many brands contain artificial coloring and flavors.)
The second best about these cashew bacon bites, aside from the flavor, is how EASY they are to make. They're not finicky, no crazy steps.
To get them into "bit" size, pulse the cashews in a blender or food processor. I use a mesh strainer to get out the powdery bits, but that's totally optional. Then, mix together all of the ingredients and bake in the oven. Seriously easy.
Use them atop homemade pizza, loaded baked potatoes, in a sandwich, and whatever else you can dream of.
I tried them on a bagel chip that was smeared with chickpea salad. OMG. New fav snack!
Did you know: those weirdly-textured Bac'n Pieces are accidentally vegan - but full of artificial flavors and coloring. Ew. These homemade bacon bits are way healthier and - oil-free.
HOW-TO VIDEO
Crunchy Cashew Bacon Bits
Ingredients
- 1 cup raw cashews
- 2 tsp liquid smoke
- 2 tsp liquid aminos - or light soy sauce
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp maple syrup
Instructions
- Pre-heat oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Add cashews in a blender or food processor and pulse until broken down into smaller bits.
- In a small bowl, mix the cashew bits and remaining ingredients together.
- Spread the seasoned cashews onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10 minutes, taking out halfway to stir around to ensure even baking.
- Remove from oven. Let cool. Put on top of a salad, baking potato, etc!
