Rice Paper Bacon Recipe – American Special
Rice paper bacon is a creative, plant-based twist on traditional bacon, delivering crispiness and smoky flavor using thin, crispy rice-paper sheets. Seasoned with a blend of smoked paprika, maple syrup, and soy sauce (or tamari), each strip transforms into a savory topping or side. Ideal for those seeking vegan or vegetarian alternatives, this recipe also works beautifully in BLTs, on salads, or as a crunchy breakfast side. It offers the indulgent texture of bacon without the meat, making it perfect for cruelty-free meals or lighter cooking.
- Prep Time10 min
- Cook Time8 min
- Total Time18 min
Rice Paper Bacon Ingredients :
- 8-10 sheets of rice paper
- 3 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp liquid smoke (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Optional: a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat
How to make Rice Paper Bacon:
Prepare the Marinade:In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, maple syrup, liquid smoke, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne (if using).
Soak the Rice Paper:Fill a shallow dish with warm water. Dip one rice paper sheet in the water for about 10-15 seconds until it softens but is not fully limp. Remove and lay it flat on a clean surface.
Add Marinade:Brush or drizzle a portion of the marinade over the softened rice paper sheet, making sure to cover it evenly.
Layer for Thickness:For a thicker bacon, layer another sheet of rice paper on top and repeat the process of soaking and marinating. You can create multiple layers depending on your preference.
Bake:Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated rice paper strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Cool and Serve:Remove from the oven and let the rice paper bacon cool for a few minutes; they will crisp up more as they cool. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for later use.
Recipe Notes :
Crispiness Tips: Bake rice paper strips until they begin to curl and crisp; cool them on a rack to preserve crunch.
Flavor Adjustments: Adjust the smoky flavor by increasing smoked paprika or adding chipotle powder; maple syrup level can be tweaked for sweetness.
Storage & Reheating: Store any leftovers in an air-tight container; reheat gently in a low-temperature oven to revive crisp texture.
Serving Suggestions: Serve rice paper bacon in vegan BLTs, crumbled over soups or salads, or alongside breakfast plates for added texture.
