Shikari's Vegan Coconut Bacon (Smoky, Crispy + Plant-Based!)

Who needs bacon when you've got Shikari's famous Coconut Bacon?! This recipe goes all the way back to Mich's Crepe Hearts food truck days, where his smoky, crispy coconut bacon became one of those unforgettable little ingredients that made everything taste better. And lucky for me, the recipe lives on in our kitchen!

If you've never tried coconut bacon, you're in for a treat. Imagine delicate, golden coconut flakes coated in a smoky, salty, slightly sweet marinade, baked until perfectly crispy. It's got that irresistible savory crunch that makes you want to sprinkle it on absolutely everything... and trust me, we do.

We love adding this to fresh salads, wraps, sandwiches, nourishing bowls, veggie burgers, or anything that could use a little bacon magic. It's also dangerously delicious straight off the baking sheet.

Shikari's Famous Vegan Coconut Bacon

by Shikari Mich Michael Pavel 

• 3½ cups large-flake raw unsweetened coconut (approximately 1 bag)

• 3 tbsp gluten-free tamari

• 2 tsp smoked paprika

• 2 tbsp organic maple syrup

• 1 tsp smoked salt

• 1 tsp ground black pepper

• 2 tbsp water

Prepare your marinade: Preheat oven to 325°F. In a mixing bowl, combine tamari, water, maple syrup, smoked paprika, black pepper, and smoked salt. Stir until the salt dissolves and everything is well incorporated.

Coat your coconut: Place raw coconut flakes in a large bowl and pour the marinade over them. Gently toss until all the flakes are evenly coated, being careful not to break them apart. You want to keep those beautiful large flakes intact for the best bacon-like texture.

Let the flavors soak in: Allow the coconut to marinate for approximately 20 minutes, giving the flakes time to absorb all that smoky, savory goodness.

Bake until crispy: Spread the marinated coconut flakes in an even layer onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a reusable baking mat. Bake at 325°F for approximately 15–20 minutes, gently stirring occasionally to help everything cook evenly.

Watch closely: Coconut flakes can go from perfectly golden to burnt in a flash! Keep a close eye on them, especially during the final few minutes. Remove from the oven when lightly golden and beginning to crisp. They'll continue to firm up as they cool.