How to Make Seitan Beef Flavor

Discover how to make seitan with a beef-inspired flavor that’s perfect for plant-based meals! This vegan recipe combines the magic of vital wheat gluten and savory seasonings like smoked paprika, soy sauce, and liquid smoke to create a rich, meaty taste and texture. Kneaded to perfection and simmered in a flavorful broth with bay leaves, this homemade seitan is both hearty and versatile. Whether you’re looking to slice it for sandwiches, shred it for tacos, or toss it into a stew, this protein-packed dish is a game-changer for those exploring meat alternatives. Ready in just 80 minutes and easy to customize, this recipe is a must-try for anyone craving a plant-based twist on classic beef dishes.

Nutriscore Rating: 76/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:60 mins

Total Time:80 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups Vital wheat gluten
• 3 tablespoons Nutritional yeast
• 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoons Ground black pepper
• 0.75 cups Vegetable broth
• 3 tablespoons Soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Tomato paste
• 0.5 teaspoons Liquid smoke
• 8 cups Water
• 4 tablespoons Soy sauce (for simmering broth)
• 2 Bay leaves

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: vital wheat gluten, nutritional yeast, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and ground black pepper. Whisk thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.

Step 2

In a separate bowl, mix the wet ingredients: vegetable broth, soy sauce, tomato paste, and liquid smoke. Stir until fully combined.

Step 3

Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture while stirring with a spoon or your hands. Once a dough starts to form, knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes elastic and cohesive.

Step 4

Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces and shape them into small loaves or strips, depending on your desired final texture and appearance.

Step 5

In a large pot, bring the water to a boil. Add soy sauce and bay leaves to create a simmering broth.

Step 6

Carefully place the seitan pieces into the broth. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the pot with a lid, leaving it slightly ajar to prevent it from boiling over.

Step 7

Cook the seitan for 1 hour, flipping the pieces halfway through to ensure thorough cooking and even absorption of flavors.

Step 8

After 1 hour, remove the seitan from the broth and place it on a plate to cool slightly. Once it’s cool enough to handle, slice or shred it as desired.

Step 9

Use the seitan beef in your favorite recipes, or store it in an airtight container with some of the simmering broth to keep it moist. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2695.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1896.6

Total Fat 10.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 1.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.6g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 6370.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 91.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 10.7g	0%
Total Sugars 5.2g
Protein 358.4g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 848.6mg	0%
Iron 28.0mg	0%
Potassium 1726.9mg	0%

*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.

Source of Calories

Fat: 5.1%

Protein: 75.6%

Carbs: 19.4%