Yes, you read that right. I was having a massive craving for a BLT with Miracle Whip and this definitely satisfied those cravings! You remember those commercials way back when? Whenever the commercial would come on I would suddenly have the urge for a big juicy bacon, lettuce and tomato sandwich. Now, I can make this awesome Portobello Mushroom Vegan BLT Sandwich and feel super healthy after while still getting my protein! Mushrooms are a perfect bacon substitute because they soak up whatever flavor you choose, just like tofu.
I have fond memories of BLTs. My older brother used make them when my parents were out. This was one of his many specialties, but it was always my favorite. I will always associate BLTs with my childhood.
I knew fake bacon would be a bit of a challenge to create while keeping it as whole foods as possible, but the key is really the liquid smoke. Not a whole food really, but it’s really really good in this. I had one of my guy neighbors try this one. He said it was “really good” with a very surprised look on his face. Not exactly the taste, but he said it definitely tastes like juicy, smokey meat. Which is really why I love my BLTs…that and the miracle whip. Miracle whip is very sugary, so I had to recreate that flavor by using Veganaise and dry mustard powder. I have to say it’s really good!! You will be making this again and again. Added benefit: It even looks like bacon!
I really love mushrooms. They are a totally under appreciated superstar. Especially if you live in an area that doesn’t get a lot of sun since they are a source of Vitamin D. They also have some great cardiovascular benefits, can potentially reduce tumors due to the selenium, have antioxidants-a-plenty, and my favorite…protein and fiber!! These will make you feel full for a long time without any fat whatsoever!
Check it out!
Even if you aren’t vegan, this sandwich will make your tastebuds dance! Eat this. It’s a much lower calorie alternative than bacon and you are getting mega health benefits. What could be better? Let me answer that for you…this sandwich is awesome and will sate your bacon cravings, so…nothing! While I’m writing, I watched my sandwich disappear in a matter of minutes. Yes, I ate it. SO GOOD.
Ingredients
- 1 thinly sliced Portobello Mushroom (crimini will also work)
- 3 tsp Wright's hickory liquid smoke (see notes)
- 2 tbsp coconut aminos (see notes)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp molasses (or more maple syrup, molasses adds darker notes)
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/8 tsp chili powder (or 1/4 tsp for more spice)
- 1/8 tsp garlic powder
- 1/8 tsp clove
- 3 tbsp Veganaise (soy-free)
- 1 tsp dry mustard powder
- !Toppings
- 1 tomato
- 2-4 romaine lettuce leaves
- 2 slices of toasted flourless sprouted Ezekial bread or favorite bread
Notes
You can also use Braggs liquid amino (slightly more bitter but very tasty/flavorful) or soy sauce (eliminate added salt) in place of the coconut aminos. I prefer my bacon a little lighter.
If you don't have liquid smoke, use smoked paprika and add a little olive oil to the pan instead.
Instructions
1.Mix all of the ingredients for the portobello mushroom bacon except for the first ingredient (the mushrooms). Stir well and set aside.
2. Lay the sliced mushrooms into a skillet and pour the bacon flavor mixture over the bacon.
3. Cook on each side for 3-5 minutes until the mushrooms have cooked down to about half their original size or until the liquid has absorbed and browned on the mushrooms.
4. While the mushrooms are browning, mix your mayo and set aside.
5. Toast your Ezekiel bread and spread the mayo on each slice.
6. Thinly slice the tomato and layer the tomato and lettuce leaves on the bread. Then, top with bacon.
7. Enjoy!
Do you have a fond childhood memory of a BLT? If so, I’d love for you to tell me about it in the comments below!
Marjorie Stradinger says
This is your typical YUMMOOOO RECIPE. I heard today on the radio the amazing nutritional benefits of maple syrup. And also molasses has benefits too. I don’t think bacon can say that. 🙂 Thanks for the post. I am definitely trying this.
Marjorie Stradinger recently posted…A pause for the comma
Foodscape says
Thank you, you’re absolutely right! Most people don’t realize that sugar SHOULD have nutrition. Molasses too!
Foodscape recently posted…Portobello Mushroom Vegan BLT Sandwich
Jen says
Going to have to try this one. Every vegan BLT I see has a bacon substitute that does not make me want to try the sandwich. Now, I’m a HUGE bacon fan, and I think the portebellos will be a great substitute!
Jen recently posted…MUSHROOM, KALE & SAUSAGE ZOODLES W/AVOCADO
Foodscape says
Thanks Jen! They really do work well I have to say.
Foodscape recently posted…Portobello Mushroom Vegan BLT Sandwich
Contestchef says
Your blog is impressive, thanks to the quality of your recipes & other content. We would be glad if you would participate on Contestchef so that your quality recipes can contest with other such bloggers/ recipe creators and win accolades from various players in the global food industry.
Contestchef is a global forum for food/ recipe bloggers to showcase their skills to the world. This is a one of a kind concept and backed by food conglomerates around the world. Several recipe creators/bloggers are already contesting on Contestchef.
Click to join Contestchef
Sincerely,
Nandy
Contestchef
Foodscape says
Thanks Nandy! Can’t wait to take a look!
Foodscape recently posted…Portobello Mushroom Vegan BLT Sandwich
Kate Farrell says
Hi
Just an FYI; when I printed this recipe off only the first 2 pages printed. No instructions!
🙂
Foodscape says
Hi Kate, I have been doing the instructions separately when I do pictures in my instructions. I think I’ll stop doing that so you can print them. Thanks for letting me know! Let me know what you think! Or snap me a pic for Foodscape’s Facebook and instagram!
Foodscape recently posted…Portobello Mushroom Vegan BLT Sandwich
Hannah Siegmund @ ThisVeganWhimsy says
I adore BLT’s, and I make one all the time using maple “bacon” tempeh and Just Mayo. I’ve never made one with mushrooms though, so this is definitely going on my list. The mushroom will have a perfect toothy bite!
Hannah Siegmund @ ThisVeganWhimsy recently posted…Super Spirulina Grits with Caramelized Onions and Garlic
Foodscape says
Tempeh does make an awesome bacon Hannah! When you feel like you’ve had too much soy/tempeh in a week, this is a great alternative. Let me know how it goes!
Foodscape recently posted…Moist Chocolate Mug Cake Vegan Style
Farrah says
Ahh, this looks and sounds so good! <3 I can't eat bacon, so a vegan BLT sounds perfect! :]
Thanks for linking up with us on Foodie Friday! :]
Farrah recently posted…I’ll send you all my dreams in a letter…