Chances are if you’re vegetarian or vegan you’ve heard of seitan. Like tofu and tempeh, it’s a plant-based alternative that has a similar texture and taste to meat. So what exactly is it?
What is Seitan?
Seitan is a plant-based meat substitute that mimics the flavor and texture of chicken. It’s made out of vital wheat gluten, which has a similar texture to flour. It’s often kneaded with spices and flavorings like nutritional yeast, soy sauce, and vegetable stock. It’s then simmerered in more vegetable stock until it becomes firm.
What Does Seitan Taste Like?
Seitan has a similar texture to chicken with a savory umami flavor. It picks up on the flavors of what it’s cooked in.
How to Cook Seitan
If you’re buying it from a grocery store, it’s already cooked and ready to eat. All you have to do is warm it up and add some flavor to it. Because seitan tends to try up quickly, it works really well in soups and stews. If you’re cooking it in a skillet or on the grill, cook it hot and quickly.
What’s the Difference Between Seitan, Tofu, and Tempeh?
Tofu and tempeh are soy-based. Tofu is made from condensed, pressed soy milk, giving it a smooth texture, and tempeh is made from fermented soybeans.
