Discover the ultimate plant-based protein with this homemade seitan recipe—a versatile, high-protein meat alternative that’s perfect for vegan and vegetarian dishes. Made with vital wheat gluten, nutritional yeast, and a blend of savory spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika, this seitan boasts a rich, umami-packed flavor. Kneaded to develop a satisfyingly chewy texture and simmered gently in a fragrant vegetable broth with bay leaves, this recipe ensures tender, flavorful seitan every time. Whether sliced, shredded, or cubed, seitan is ideal for stir-fries, sandwiches, or stews. Plus, it’s easy to make and customizable with just 15 minutes of prep time. Bring your plant-based cooking to the next level with this protein-rich, budget-friendly staple!
In a large mixing bowl, combine the vital wheat gluten, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Mix well.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup of vegetable broth and soy sauce.
Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring with a spoon or your hands until it forms a dough.
Knead the dough for about 3-5 minutes to develop the gluten structure. The dough should be elastic but not overly sticky.
Shape the dough into a log or divide it into smaller pieces, depending on your desired use for the seitan.
In a large pot, bring 6 cups of vegetable broth to a simmer. Add the bay leaves for extra flavor.
Carefully place the seitan into the simmering broth. Ensure the broth remains at a light simmer and does not boil to prevent the seitan from becoming spongy.
Cover the pot partially with a lid and let the seitan simmer for 45-60 minutes, turning it occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Once cooked, remove the seitan from the pot and let it cool slightly before slicing, shredding, or using as desired in your favorite recipes.
Store cooked seitan in the refrigerator in a sealed container with some of the cooking broth to keep it moist. It can be refrigerated for up to 5-7 days or frozen for longer storage.
Calories |
1801 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 9.0 g | 12% | |
| Saturated Fat | 1.4 g | 7% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 7084 mg | 308% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 82.7 g | 30% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.3 g | 19% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.1 g | ||
| Protein | 345.9 g | 692% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 731 mg | 56% | |
| Iron | 25.8 mg | 143% | |
| Potassium | 1315 mg | 28% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.