Have you ever wondered what the secret ingredient is in vegan fried chicken? The answer might surprise you: Seitan.
Seitan is a high-protein food made from wheat gluten.
It’s often used as a meat substitute in vegetarian and vegan dishes.
While it can be bought pre-made, it’s also easy to make at home.
Here’s everything you need to know about seitan, including how to cook it and the best substitutes for seitan.
Let’s get started.
What is Seitan?

Seitan is delicious, protein-rich food that can be used in various dishes.
Often called “wheat meat” or “gluten meat,” seitan is made from wheat gluten, which is the main protein found in wheat.
When wheat flour is combined with water and kneaded, the gluten proteins come together to form a sticky, elastic dough.
This dough is then cooked in broth, resulting in a chewy, meat-like substance.
Seitan has a savory, umami flavor, making it a versatile ingredient for vegetarian and vegan dishes.
It can be used as a replacement for chicken, beef, or pork in stir-fries, sandwiches, and more.
Plus, with its high protein content, seitan is perfect for anyone looking for a nutritious alternative to traditional meat products.
So, give the seitan a try next time you’re in the mood for something hearty and delicious.
You won’t be disappointed.
The 5 Best Substitutes for Seitan
Seitan is a versatile protein used in various dishes, from stir-fries to mock meats. However, seitan can be difficult to find and sometimes expensive.
If you’re looking for a seitan substitute, here are five of the best substitutes out there.
1 – Tofu

Although seitan has more protein than tofu, tofu is a complete protein, while seitan is not.
Tofu is lower in calories and fat than seitan. Seitan is also quite high in sodium.
Tofu takes on the flavors of whatever it is cooked with, while seitan has its own flavor.
When considering a substitution, consider what flavors you want in your dish and whether or not you mind the extra sodium in seitan.
You may also want to consider texture-tofu is softer than seitan.
All in all, it really depends on your preferences as to whether you prefer tofu or seitan.
2 – Tempeh

If you’re looking for a delicious, healthy alternative to seitan, you should definitely consider tempeh.
Although it’s often used in Asian cuisine, tempeh is actually a fermented soybean product that originates from Indonesia.
It’s high in protein and fiber and has a firm, chewy texture that makes it perfect for stir-fries, curries, and other hearty dishes.
Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – you can use it in place of chicken, beef, or pork in almost any recipe.
3 – TVP (Textured Vegetable Protein)

TVP (textured vegetable protein) is a highly versatile ingredient in various recipes.
It’s made from soybeans or other vegetables that have been defatted and then ground into flour.
TVP has a high protein content and is an excellent source of dietary fiber.
It’s also low in fat and calories, making it a healthy option for those looking to lose or maintain weight.
TVP can be used as a meat substitute in dishes such as chili, tacos, and pasta sauce.
It can also be added to soups, stews, and casseroles to boost the protein content.
For best results, cook TVP in water or broth until it’s fully hydrated before adding it to your recipe.
4 – Lentils

If you’re looking for a delicious, hearty dish that will leave you feeling satisfied, look no further than lentils.
These little legumes are packed with protein and fiber, making them a perfect addition to any meal.
Plus, they’re incredibly versatile – you can use them in soups, stews, salads, or even as a replacement for meat in tacos or burgers.
Best of all, they cook up quickly and easily, so you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
So next time you’re looking for something new to try in the kitchen, don’t forget about lentils – they just might become your new favorite ingredient.
5 – Vegan Meat

As a chef, I always look for new and interesting ingredients to work with.
So when I heard about vegan meat, I was intrigued.
I had to try it for myself. I have to say, I was impressed.
Vegan meat has a surprisingly realistic texture, and it can be cooked in a variety of ways.
Whether you’re grilling, frying, or even baking, vegan meat can hold its own against any traditional protein.
But the best part of vegan meat is its versatility.
With so many different flavors and types available, you can really get creative in the kitchen.
And because it’s plant-based, vegan meat is also a healthier option than traditional animal-based proteins.
So if you’re looking for something new to try in the kitchen, don’t overlook vegan meat.
It might just be the perfect ingredient for your next dish.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best substitutes for seitan are tofu, tempeh, lentils, mushrooms, and beans.
Each of these ingredients can be used in various dishes to create a delicious and healthy meal.
Tofu and tempeh are the most similar to seitan in terms of texture and taste, making them great options for those looking for a seitan substitute.
Lentils, mushrooms, and beans are also good substitutes, although they may have slightly different textures and tastes.
No matter what your preference is, there is sure to be a seitan substitute that you will love.
The 5 Best Substitutes for Seitan

Ingredients
- Tofu
- Tempeh
- TVP (Textured Vegetable Protein)
- Lentils
- Vegan Meat
Instructions
- Pick your favorite substitute from the list above.
- Follow cooking directions for your selected substitute with the proper ratio of ingredients.