How to Make Seitan (Easy Step-by-Step Guide)
Learn how to make seitan, a high-protein vegan meat alternative, with this easy-to-follow guide. Discover tips on perfecting its chewy texture and savory flavor, making it a versatile addition to your plant-based meals.
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 302kcal
Ingredients
- 2 cup vital wheat gluten
- 1.5 cups vegetable broth or water
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast flakes
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt optional
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, add the vital wheat gluten, nutritional yeast, and dry spices. Whisk together well and set to the side.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the veggie broth and soy sauce.
- Add the wet mixture to the dry mixture. Once it’s mixed as well as you can get with a spoon, it is time to get your hands into it and begin kneading. If it seems a little too dry, it’s okay to add a splash of veggie broth. Knead for about 3 minutes or so. The longer you knead it, the chewier the finished product will be.
- Set to the side and allow to rest for 10 minutes. Then knead for another 2-3 minutes. The longer you knead, the chewier the seitan will be after baking.
- Form the dough into a log that is about the size of a roast, around 10 inches by 5 inches.
- Place it on the parchment paper, roll it up tightly, and tuck the ends underneath. I have included photos above to help you visualize.
- Next, take the log that is on parchment paper and wrap it up in foil to help hold in the moisture. Tuck the foil ends under as well.
- Place the roast on a baking sheet or pan and pop it into the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 1 hour, flipping it every 20 minutes to ensure that it cooks well on all sides.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes before slicing and serving as a vegan meat replacer in stir-fries, on sandwiches and wraps, or in other recipes.
Video
Notes
Tips & Suggestions:
I have included step-by-step photos and directions above to ensure your first attempt will be successful.
Vital wheat gluten- You can use the washed flour method to make seitan, which involves rinsing wheat flour dough to remove the starch and leave behind the gluten. This method is more time-consuming and requires more effort but results in a similar texture to seitan made with vital wheat gluten.
Seasoning options- Seitan can be seasoned with a variety of herbs, spices, and sauces to suit your taste. Common seasonings include soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and smoked paprika. Some recipes even use tahini as a seasoning. Marinating it before cooking can also add extra flavor.
Storage- It freezes well. To freeze, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be thawed in the refrigerator before use or cooked from frozen.
Nutrition
Calories: 302kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 58g | Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 26mg | Fiber: 1g