Description
A fast and foolproof homemade seitan recipe made with vital wheat gluten for a chewy, high-protein vegan meat alternative. Perfect for slicing, shredding, or adding to your favorite stir-fries, sandwiches, and bowls!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup vital wheat gluten
- 3 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
Wet Ingredients
- ¾ cup vegetable broth (plus more for simmering)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together vital wheat gluten, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika until well combined.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the vegetable broth, soy sauce or tamari, and olive oil.
- Form the dough: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms. It should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- Knead the dough: Knead the dough for 1–2 minutes until it becomes elastic and cohesive. Avoid over-kneading to prevent toughness.
- Divide the dough: Cut the dough into 3 to 4 equal pieces for easier cooking and portioning.
- Simmer the seitan: Place the dough pieces in a pot with simmering (not boiling) vegetable broth. Cook gently for 20 minutes, turning the pieces halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Drain and serve or store: Drain the cooked seitan and use immediately in your dishes, or let cool and refrigerate for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage.
Notes
- Flavor boost: add liquid smoke or poultry seasoning to the dough for extra depth.
- For firmer texture: pan-sear, grill, or bake the seitan after simmering.
- Make it saucy: try simmering the seitan in BBQ sauce or teriyaki sauce to finish.
- Freezable: Seitan freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep and quick meals.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Protein, Vegan, Meal Prep
- Method: Simmer
- Cuisine: American / Plant-Based
