Easy Seitan Recipe (Seasoned, Versatile)
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cups vital wheat gluten
150 g
- 3 tablespoons chickpea flour
22 g
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
optional
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
depending on final use/dish, *Use less salt if you plan to pair with a salty sauce.
- ⅔ cup vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic
grated on a microplane zester
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions
- 1
For steaming the seitan (preferred cooking method): add a few inches of water to a large pot and set up a steamer basket. Make sure the water doesn't touch the bottom of the basket. Bring the water to a simmer.*See Notes for the simmering cooking method.
- 2
In a large bowl whisk together the vital wheat gluten, chickpea flour, nutritional yeast, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika and salt.
- 3
In a separate bowl whisk together the broth, soy sauce, both vinegars, zested/pureed garlic, and olive oil.
- 4
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir to combine. Transfer to a solid surface and knead for 2 to 3 minutes. The dough should start to feel tough and more resistant. Let the dough rest for 5 minutes, then knead a few more times. If making nugget-style chunks, tear off pieces of seitan from the dough ball. For larger steaks, use your hands to stretch the dough into an approximately 3/4-inch-thick rectangle (refer to photos above).
- 5
Cut into 4 equal-sized pieces and place in the steamer basket. Cover the pot, and set a timer for 15 minutes.
- 6
At the 15 minute mark, flip the seitan (be careful of the steam), and set the timer for 15 more minutes. Use tongs to remove one piece, and place it on a cutting board. The center should feel very firm when pressed with the tongs. You can also slice it through the center to check for doneness. If needed, steam for another 5 to 10 minutes. *Steaks usually require about 5-10 minutes longer than smaller chunks.
- 7
Transfer to a plate to cool. Use in your favorite saute or stir fry, or refrigerate for later use. After chilling overnight, the seitan will be even meatier and firmer.
Easy Seitan Recipe (Seasoned, Versatile)
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About this Recipe
Craving a versatile, plant-based protein that doesn't break the bank? This easy seitan recipe delivers a flavorful, seasoned alternative to store-bought options, perfect for transforming into an array of dishes right from your kitchen.
What makes this seitan truly special is its thoughtfully balanced seasoning blend. Unlike plain vital wheat gluten preparations, this recipe combines nutritional yeast, onion powder, garlic powder, and an optional touch of smoked paprika with savory liquids like soy sauce and balsamic vinegar, creating a deep, umami-rich base that is anything but bland. It's designed to be as delicious and adaptable as premium store-bought seitan, but at a fraction of the cost.
Expect a firm, chewy seitan that holds its shape beautifully through various cooking methods. Once prepared, you'll have a dense, satisfying protein with a savory and slightly tangy profile, ready to absorb further flavors from your chosen sauces and marinades. Its robust texture makes it an excellent canvas for slicing into cutlets, crumbling for ground-meat style applications, or cubing into hearty stew pieces. It's a foundational ingredient for building countless delicious, plant-forward meals.
This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can adjust the salt level based on your planned use—use less if you anticipate pairing it with a very salty sauce. Feel free to experiment with other spices like a touch of rosemary or sage for a different flavor profile, or increase the smoked paprika for a bolder, richer taste. Once made, you can slice, crumble, or cube the seitan to fit any recipe, from hearty stir-fries and sandwiches to flavorful curries or vegan roasts.
This homemade seitan serves as an excellent foundational ingredient for meal prep, ensuring you have a flavorful, adaptable protein ready for weeknight dinners or special occasions.