Seitan (Vital Wheat Gluten) Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup vital wheat gluten
• 3/4 cup water or vegetable broth (for flavor)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (optional, for added flavor)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for richness)

Instructions:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the vital wheat gluten with any optional dry seasonings, such as garlic powder or onion powder.

2. Add Wet Ingredients: Slowly pour in the water or vegetable broth, soy sauce, and olive oil. Stir the mixture until it begins to form into a dough.

3. Knead the Dough: Once the dough starts to come together, knead it for about 3-5 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth.

4. Shape the Seitan: Once kneaded, shape the dough into a loaf or divide it into pieces for smaller portions, depending on your needs.

5. Cook the Seitan: There are several methods to cook seitan:

   • Simmering: Place the seitan in a pot of simmering broth (vegetable or savory broth works well) and cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour, flipping occasionally, until the seitan is firm and chewy.
   • Steaming: Alternatively, you can steam the seitan for 30-40 minutes in a steamer or over boiling water.
   • Pan-fry: After boiling or steaming, you can also slice the seitan and pan-fry it for an extra crispy texture.

6. Serve: Once cooked, seitan can be used as a meat substitute in stir-fries, sandwiches, wraps, and more!