Whether or not you are a vegetarian, many people also choose to stay away from bacon because it is known for being high in fat and very greasy. The World Health Organization recently issued a report warning that eating bacon in excess may be linked to some forms of cancer. However, it is also widely revered as one of the most delicious breakfast meats around. If you want to be able to enjoy this fatty option without the guilt of blowing your diet, then vegetarian bacon just might be the ideal choice for you. It works great as a meat on its own, or it can be added as part of a salad or sandwich to spice up your meal.
There are now many options for vegetarian bacon on the market. You can find most of these in your typical grocery store, and they are prepared the same way you would fry up regular bacon in a pan. Each brand has its own unique taste and texture, and some come across as closer to actual bacon than others. The trick is to not be deceived by the initial appearance of the uncooked bacon substitute. Many of these brands are made out of flour or soy beans, meaning the initial color might not be what you would expect of traditional bacon pieces. Pay attention to the cooking directions on the package so that you do not eat it before it is fully prepared.
Even if you are not fond of the first vegetarian bacon brand that you try, it is worth experimenting with others until you find the right fit for you. Many of these options can be a good source of protein to add to your meals without blowing your calorie count. This is especially true for bacon substitute made of tofu or other protein-based plants. You may also find that it is better to cook substitute bacon for a bit longer than you would regular bacon because it allows it to get closer to the crispy texture of real bacon. Adding some spices could help to give it a realistic flavor.
Even though substitute bacon is arguably healthier than the real deal, you should still pay attention to the nutritional information on the label so that you do not consume more than what is reasonable for your diet. Also, there may not be as much protein in substitute bacon as you would find in the real deal, which means that you might need to find other sources of protein throughout your day to get the requisite amount. This is important because eating a sufficient amount of protein keeps you fuller longer after your meals and could help prevent you from eating unhealthy snacks throughout the day. It is also key for building muscles and boosting your metabolism.