Coconut Bacon Flakes. Vegan. GF.

Coconut bacon?  Why yes!  I first haphazardly stumbled upon this insanely delectable treat a few months ago while traveling.  I bought a bag and was addicted at first bite.  I brought it home and vegans & non-vegans alike couldn’t stop eating it.  I knew I had to recreate it because it would become a staple in our pantry & boy was I right!

So it has the smokiness of bacon, the crunch factor & is totally healthy v. the real deal. You can use it virtually in the same manner – like topping you salad, baked potato etc.  But wait… this is coconut so let’s travel down other avenues of usage.  Topping vegan yogurt (my new favorite is So Delicious), vegan ice cream, cereal, roasted veggies, mixed in granola… anywhere you want to create that sweet/salty/smoky flavor profile.  OHHHH and think of all the holiday food you can top with it!?!  Mashed potatoes, green beans, asparagus… yum!  So many uses & so little time. And yes, straight up eating is also quite acceptable.

Ingredients:

4 oz. container of coconut flakes (you want coconut flakes for this recipe)
1 tablespoon of Bragg’s Liquid Aminos
3 teaspoons of liquid smoke
1.5 teaspoons of maple syrup

Method:

Preheat oven 350 degrees and line your baking sheet with parchment.

Add your ingredients to a bowl and stir well. Spread the coconut flakes on your prepared pan in a single layer to bake.  Cook 4-5 minutes, removing to stir. I did add a bit more liquid smoke when I was stirring but this is optional.  Bake for an additional few minutes.  Remove when the coconut flakes are a golden brown.  Let cool completely to allow it to properly crisp up.  Place in an airtight container for storage.

Make sure you purchase larger flakes of coconut.

Liquid smoke and aminos can be purchased in all major grocery stores.

Great substitute for soy sauce in all of your recipes.  I also love this on my salads in lieu of dressing.  A little amount goes a long way!

Mixes up nicely.

Spread out evenly.

Bakes up beautifully!

Leave me a comment if you love coconut bacon & suggestions on how you use it.    Would also make an awesome food gift for someone special.

Sunday:  23 trail cycling miles
Monday:  65m of elliptical.  35m treadmill.  Weights, balancing & core.
Tuesday: 65m of elliptical.  40m treadmill.  3rd post op appt. today!!

Peace out!

— Knead to Cook