This seitan recipe delivers a delectable and satisfying experience, with a savory and meat-like flavor that’s entirely plant-based. With its straightforward preparation, even those new to vegan cooking can enjoy the ease and deliciousness of making homemade seitan!
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Plant-based protein powerhouse. Seitan offers a protein-packed alternative to meat, providing a substantial amount of protein per serving, making it an excellent choice for those following a vegan or vegetarian diet.
- Versatile meat substitute. With its meat-like texture and ability to absorb flavors, seitan can be used as a versatile substitute in a variety of dishes, from stir-fries and tacos to sandwiches and stews.
- Customizable and flavorful: Seitan can be seasoned and marinated to your liking, allowing you to create a wide range of flavors and adapt it to suit various cuisines and recipes.
- Sustainable and ethical. Choosing seitan over traditional meat supports a more sustainable and ethical food system by reducing the environmental impact of animal agriculture and promoting compassionate choices!
Ingredients needed
- Vital wheat gluten. Vital wheat gluten is the main ingredient in seitan, providing the protein-rich base necessary for its meat-like texture and structure.
- Nutritional yeast. Nutritional yeast adds a savory and slightly cheesy flavor to the seitan, enhancing its taste profile.
- Vegetable broth. Vegetable broth acts as a liquid component in the seitan mixture, providing moisture and flavor to the final product.
- Tamari or soy sauce. Tamari or soy sauce contributes a salty and umami flavor to the seitan, boosting its overall taste.
- Spices and seasonings. Spices like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and other seasonings are used to add depth and enhance the flavor of the seitan.
- Liquid smoke (optional). Liquid smoke can be added for a smoky flavor, mimicking the taste of traditional smoked meats.
- Olive oil (optional). Olive oil can be used to add moisture and richness to the seitan, but it can be omitted or replaced with a different oil if desired.
How to make seitan
Step 1 – Combine the dry ingredients. In a mixing bowl, combine the vital wheat gluten, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
Step 2 – Combine the wet ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable broth, tamari or soy sauce, olive oil (if using), and liquid smoke (if using).
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Step 3 – Form the dough. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir to form a dough. Once the dough comes together, knead it for a few minutes to develop the gluten strands. Shape the dough into a log or desired shape, making sure it’s compact and even in thickness. You can wrap the seitan in foil or cheesecloth if preferred.
Step 4 – Boil the seitan. In a large pot, bring water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the seitan to the boiling liquid, reduce the heat to a simmer, and cover with a lid. Let the seitan simmer for about 1 hour, flipping it halfway through the cooking time. This helps the seitan cook evenly and absorb the flavors.
Step 5 – Cool the seitan. After an hour, remove the seitan from the pot and let it cool. Once cooled, it’s ready to be sliced, diced, roasted, seared, or used in your favorite recipes!
Tips to make the best recipe
- Knead the dough well. Take the time to knead the seitan dough thoroughly to develop the gluten strands. This will help create a chewy and meat-like texture in the final product. Aim for at least 5-10 minutes of kneading.
- Let the dough rest. After kneading, allow the seitan to rest for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period helps the gluten relax, resulting in a more tender and less rubbery texture.
- Simmer gently. When cooking the seitan in the liquid, maintain a gentle simmer rather than a rapid boil. This ensures even cooking and prevents the seitan from becoming too tough.
- Flavor the cooking liquid. Enhance the taste of the seitan by adding flavorings to the cooking liquid. You can include ingredients like herbs, spices, additional tamari or soy sauce, and even a splash of vinegar. This allows the seitan to absorb additional richness while simmering.
Storage instructions
To store: Place the seitan in an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Properly stored, seitan can last for up to 5 to 7 days.
To freeze: Wrap the seitan tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Ensure there is no excess air inside the packaging to prevent freezer burn. Seitan can be frozen for up to 2 to 3 months.
Recommended tools
- Pot or large saucepan. You’ll need a pot or a large saucepan to simmer the seitan in the cooking liquid.
- Slotted spoon or tongs. A slotted spoon or tongs will come in handy for removing the seitan from the cooking liquid.
Frequently asked questions
No, seitan is not gluten-free. It is primarily made from vital wheat gluten, which is the protein component of wheat. Therefore, it is not suitable for individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
Vital wheat gluten is the key ingredient that gives seitan its unique texture. While there are gluten-free meat alternatives available, such as tofu or tempeh, replicating the exact texture of seitan without gluten can be challenging.
Yes, seitan can be frozen for later use. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and use as desired. Frozen seitan may change in texture slightly but is still suitable for most recipes.
It can be sliced, diced, or shredded and used in stir-fries, stews, sandwiches, wraps, tacos, kebabs, and more. It absorbs flavors well, making it an excellent choice for dishes that require a meaty texture and taste.
Seitan
Ingredients
- 1 cup vital wheat gluten
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3/4 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil optional
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke optional
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the vital wheat gluten, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable broth, tamari or soy sauce, olive oil (if using), and liquid smoke (if using).
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir to form a dough. Once the dough comes together, knead it for a few minutes to develop the gluten strands. Shape the dough into a log or desired shape, making sure it's compact and even in thickness. You can wrap the seitan in foil or cheesecloth if preferred.
- In a large pot, bring water or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the seitan to the boiling liquid, reduce the heat to a simmer, and cover with a lid. Let the seitan simmer for about 1 hour, flipping it halfway through the cooking time. This helps the seitan cook evenly and absorb the flavors.
- After an hour, remove the seitan from the pot and let it cool. Once cooled, it's ready to be sliced, diced, roasted, seared, or used in your favorite recipes!
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