*When I manage to get most of the bacon bits on the grate, they crisp up in about 5 minutes. However, if I remove the grate and let them cook on the bottom of the air fryer, it takes longer, about 10-12 minutes. I find cooking times in air fryers vary, so check your bits often to ensure they are not burning. And shake the basket often to ensure even cooking.

If the holes in your air fryer grate are too big, try lining it with parchment paper with a few small holes throughout, or use an air fryer liner to keep the vegan bits from slipping through.

The bits come out somewhat chewy, but as they cool, they crisp up. It's really about personal preference. I prefer them crispy like croutons, while my husband enjoys them chewier. If you undercook them slightly, they'll crisp up just a bit but stay mostly chewy. So, adjust the cooking time to get your ideal texture.

For skillet-made TVP bacon bits, heat the marinated TVP in a non-stick skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until crispy, about 10 minutes.

To make vegan bacon bits in the oven, spread the marinated TVP on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until crispy.

Traditional store-bought bacon bits are pretty salty. Adjust the salt to your preference, or leave it out entirely.

Nutritional information is only an estimate based on the entire batch made in this recipe.