Baked Seitan Recipe

Ever since I discovered baked seitan recipe I’ve been hooked because it’s chewy tasty and super easy to make although at first I wasn’t sure if my family would actually like it but guess what they devoured it and asked for seconds, which made me so happy because seeing them enjoy something plant based is the best feeling.

I remember one rainy afternoon when I felt too tired to cook I still made baked seitan recipe and it was a little uneven in shape and slightly overbaked in some spots but my kids didn’t even notice they gobbled it up anyway and that taught me it’s okay if it’s not perfect because flavor always wins.

You can eat baked seitan with so many things I’ve tried it with mashed potatoes or even tucked inside a sandwich or wrap and it’s also amazing with shredded seitan barbecue style and the seitan tacos I posted before because combining them all tastes absolutely delicious and you can even try it with a simple tomato sauce or pesto drizzle and every combination feels cozy and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 cups vital wheat gluten
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven
• Baking tray
• Aluminum foil or parchment paper
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

How to Make Baked Seitan?

Step 1 Mixing the Dry Ingredients

Take a large mixing bowl and add the vital wheat gluten garlic powder onion powder smoked paprika oregano thyme black pepper and salt then stir them together until all the dry spices are well combined because this will give your seitan flavor in every bite

Step 2 Mixing the Wet Ingredients

In another smaller bowl pour in the vegetable broth soy sauce and olive oil then mix them gently with a spoon until the liquid is smooth because this is what will hydrate your dry ingredients

Step 3 Making the Dough

Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture while stirring with a wooden spoon until the dough starts to form then knead the dough with your hands for a few minutes until it feels stretchy and firm because this is how gluten develops its texture

Step 4 Shaping the Seitan

Take the dough and shape it into a log or a loaf and then place it on a cutting board and cut it into smaller pieces if you want because this makes it easier to cook evenly in the oven

Step 5 Preparing to Bake

Place the shaped seitan onto a baking tray lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper and cover it loosely with foil on top because this keeps it from drying out too quickly while baking

Step 6 Baking the Seitan

Preheat your oven to 180°C and bake the seitan for about 35 to 40 minutes turning the pieces halfway through so they bake evenly because this will give you a golden chewy texture

Step 7 Cooling and Serving

When the seitan is baked remove it from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving because cooling makes it easier to cut and helps the texture set properly.

Some Notes

Seitan is a high protein food that is filling and satisfying because it absorbs flavors very well so it is perfect for sauces stews and sandwiches. You can marinate it or cook it again in a sauce to give it even more taste.

FAQ

What is seitan made of?

Seitan is made of vital wheat gluten which is the protein part of wheat mixed with spices broth and seasonings.

Is seitan healthy?

Yes seitan is healthy because it is high in protein and low in fat but it is not gluten-free.

Can I freeze baked seitan?

Yes you can freeze baked seitan because it keeps well for up to three months and you just need to thaw it before reheating.

How do I make seitan softer?

To make seitan softer bake it covered in foil with extra broth or steam it before baking because moisture makes it more tender.

Can I flavor seitan differently?

Yes you can flavor seitan with any spices you like because it absorbs taste easily like curry chili or even sweet teriyaki sauce.

How long does baked seitan last in the fridge?

Baked seitan lasts up to 5 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container.

Can kids eat seitan?

Yes kids can eat seitan if they are not allergic to wheat because it is a plant protein that can replace meat.

Can I use baked seitan in sandwiches?

Yes baked seitan is perfect for sandwiches wraps and stir fries because it slices well and stays chewy.