The texture and taste of meat is available from veg

We should all be making an effort to cut down the amount of meat we eat, but it can be rather difficult to think of alternatives to bacon. We’ve done the work for you and found the best options that are not only plant-based but equally delicious. Tuck into a creatively juicy faux bacon sandwich that would fool even the most passionate carnivores with its meat-free realism.

Eggplant

Eggplant is one of the most versatile vegetables in the world. When treated correctly you can use it as a dip or a meaty substitute in your favourite Italian stews. However, our favourite use for these tasty vegetables is as part of the alternatives to bacon. Although it may be difficult to believe, even the most seasoned meat-lover will have a hard time distinguishing correctly prepared eggplant bacon from the real deal. If you would like to try this interesting imitation meat dish you should get your hands on a fairly large eggplant and slice it as thinly as possible. Once the eggplant is sliced, you should cut each strip into long pieces that are reminiscent of traditional streaky bacon. After this, you should sprinkle the eggplant with copious amounts of salt so that any excess moisture can be drawn out. When the eggplant is no longer leaking water you can pat it dry and season with some smoked salt before baking in the oven until the strips are brown and crispy.

Seitan

Seitan is also a slice of very popular imitation meat enjoyed by meat-eaters and vegetarians alike. Made from wheat gluten, it is believed that this type of mock meat closely resembles the real taste and texture of protein. It can be used in a number of different ways but is generally considered to be one of the greatest alternatives to bacon.  To prepare your own faux-bacon, simply slice the seitan to the thickness that you like before coating the strips in a marinade of liquid smoke and maple syrup. Once the seitan has been marinated you have the option to fry it on your stove or bake until cooked. Regardless of the preparation method you choose, these tasty vegetarian bacon strips are great when cut into small pieces and scattered over a salad or sandwiched in a buttery bun for the ultimate sandwich. You could even use your seitan bacon to garnish your favourite cauliflower mac and cheese.

Mushrooms

The last thing you may expect to use as alternatives to bacon is mushroom, especially chanterelle and shiitake. With their spongy texture and delicate flavour, you might expect them to fall apart when put to the test, but they live up to the challenge. In addition to being a great addition to stews and risottos, mushroom recipes can also be adapted to create a sensational dish that perfectly resembles the texture of thickly sliced bacon. This is a treat you can indulge in without any effects on your conscience. The only thing you need to do when preparing this veggie bacon dish is to slice mushrooms into thick vertical slices. Then the slices should be tossed into some olive oil, sprinkled with salt and baked in a warm oven until the mushrooms are bubbly and delicious. It’s important to note that you won’t be able to use just any kind of mushroom to create your faux bacon. Use shiitake mushrooms as they have a slightly smoky flavour and are generally able to withstand oven temperatures without falling apart. Or the meatier textured alternative chanterelle, which can be hand shredded.