Forktionary

Seitan

Triticum aestivum (from wheat gluten) Plant-Based Protein

Seitan Plant-Based Protein

At a Glance

  • Category Plant-Based Protein

The Forktionary Angle

"The ultimate chameleon of plant-based proteins, seitan offers an incredibly meaty texture and a blank canvas for any flavor profile."

Definition

A high-protein, meat substitute made from wheat gluten, prized for its firm, chewy texture and ability to absorb flavors readily.

Origin (modern popularization) Japan (1960s)
Protein Content (per 100g) ~25g
Storage (refrigerated) 5-7 days (cooked)

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Seitan are:

Neutral (unseasoned) umami savory (when seasoned)

Chef’s Secret

Marinate seitan for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight, to infuse it with maximum flavor before cooking, mimicking meat's absorption.

Best Substitutes

Tofu

different texture
Ratio 1:1

tempeh

different texture/flavor
Ratio 1:1

textured vegetable protein

TVP) (, rehydrated
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Available pre-made in various forms (strips, chunks, ground). Check for firm texture. Can also be made from vital wheat gluten.

Culinary Pairings

Stir-fries curries sandwiches stews BBQ sauces marinades soy sauce ginger garlic

Recipes Using Seitan

Acorn Squash Stuffed With Herbed Cornbread Stuffing With Seitan image 108
Stuffings Dressings Course Dietary Squash

Acorn Squash Stuffed With Herbed Cornbread Stuffing With Seitan

Cozy up to fall with this delicious vegetarian recipe! Perfectly roasted acorn squash is filled with a hearty stuffing of herbed cornbread, savory seitan, and vibrant vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening and will impress your family and friends. #acornsquash #stuffing #vegetarian #fallrecipes #comfortfood #seitan #cornbread #veganoption

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Belgian Style Seitan Stew With Dark Beer image
Main Dish Vegan Preparation Time To Make

Belgian Style Seitan Stew With Dark Beer

Indulge in this rich and hearty Belgian-style seitan stew, perfected with a dark beer reduction! Inspired by Robin Robertson's Vegan Planet, this recipe boasts a deeply flavorful sauce thanks to caramelized onions and a touch of sweetness. Enjoy it over your favorite noodles, mashed potatoes, or even with a side of steamed broccoli. The perfect comfort food for a chilly evening, best paired with a glass (or two!) of the oatmeal stout used in the stew. Easily adaptable with sliced portabello mushrooms for a unique twist.

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Albanian Stewed Green Beans And Potatoes With Smokey Seitan image
For 1 Or 2 Number Of Servings Course 4 Hours Or Less

Albanian Stewed Green Beans And Potatoes With Smokey Seitan

Discover the vibrant flavors of Albania with this hearty and delicious stewed green bean recipe! This vegan-friendly dish combines tender green beans and potatoes with smoky seitan for a satisfying and unique culinary experience. Inspired by the rich culinary traditions of the Adriatic and Ionian coasts, this recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or a special occasion. Easily adaptable to your preferences, you can substitute the seitan with store-bought vegan beef or chicken chunks, or even veggie crumbles. Get ready to transport your taste buds to the heart of the Mediterranean!

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Bad Hunter Stew Aka Setian Stew image
Preparation Time To Make Stews Main Dish

Bad Hunter Stew Aka Setian Stew

A hearty and flavorful vegetarian stew inspired by classic hunter's stew, but with a delicious vegan twist! Phil's accidentally brilliant creation uses seitan for a meaty texture and is perfect for a cozy Christmas dinner or any chilly evening. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make and packed with umami goodness from mushrooms and miso.

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