Crispy Golden Seitan Recipe

Our Crispy Golden Seitan transforms the humble seitan, marinated in a savory blend of herbs and spices, into golden, crispy morsels by coating it with a tasty batter. The result is a symphony of crunchy exteriors and chewy interiors, infused with rich, aromatic flavors that pay homage to classic fried chicken while offering a delightful plant-based alternative. Perfect for a comforting meal or an appetizer, these are enjoyable by both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

Ingredients

Seitan

1 1/2 cups vital wheat gluten
1/4 cup nutritional yeast
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp paprika
1 cup vegetable broth
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil

Marinade

1 cup vegetable broth
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp paprika

Breading

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup toasted panko crumbs
1 cup cornstarch
2 tsp baking powder
2 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

Frying

Canola Oil, for deep frying

Instructions

In a large bowl, mix vital wheat gluten, nutritional yeast, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and paprika. Add 1 cup vegetable broth, soy sauce, and olive oil. Mix and knead into a firm dough. Let it rest for a few minutes.

Combine 1 cup vegetable broth, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika in a bowl. Marinate the uncooked seitan pieces in this mixture for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for deeper flavor. Do not throw the marinade away.

Divide the dough into pieces (about the size of chicken tenders). Steam (30-40 minutes or until expanded and firmer) or simmer in broth; Do not boil. (30-45 minutes or until expanded and firmer). The trick here is to almost cook it thoroughly; very close. Remember you will be frying it later, which will cook it a little bit more.

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, panko, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, basil, and cayenne pepper.

Heat oil in a pot to 350-375°F (175-190°C).

Wet the cooked marinaded seitan pieces in the saved marinade. Coat them thoroughly in the dry breading mix. Ensure each piece is well-covered.

Deep fry the breaded seitan pieces for 4-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

Remove the fried seitan pieces and let them drain on a wire rack or paper towels.

Serve hot, ideally with your choice of dipping sauce.