Known informally as “vegetable meat” because of its high protein content and its appearance, seitan is a food of Chinese origin although its use is common in the rest of Asia and, increasingly, around the world whole.
What is seitan?
The seitan is obtained from wheat flour. It is the gluten (wheat protein), previously separated from starch and yeast, cooked with other ingredients like soy sauce, ginger and seaweed.
Its appearance is that of a spongy mass of brownish color.
We can make at home in a process that is not difficult or time-consuming but can be found ready-made in stores, usually vacuum packed.
Properties seitan
- It has a high protein content.
- It is low in calories and fat.
- It has no cholesterol and helps lower their levels.
Note: As the seitan is made from wheat gluten base is not suitable for people with celiac disease (gluten intolerance)
How to cook seitan?
We can use the kitchen as if flesh, stews, meatballs, filleted over pasta, rice or soups, etc…
Practical Tips
The homemade seitan can last in the refrigerator for 3 or 4 days preserved in sauce so it does not dry out. What we buy in the store, have an expiry date on the package.
In our shop Hortus Aprodiscae Montblanc will find different types of seitan and certified organic. Bon appetit!