Name: Flavor-Packed Vegan Steak Recipe You'll Absolutely Love
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Dark red kidney beans (A great source of protein and adds creaminess to the texture.); 2 tablespoons Reduced sodium soy sauce (or No-Soy) (Brings depth of flavor; for a gluten-free alternative, use tamari.); 1/2 cup Water (Helps blend the ingredients to a smooth consistency.); 2 tablespoons Tomato paste (Adds umami richness and moisture.); 1/4 cup Nutritional yeast (Gives a cheesy, nutty flavor and boosts the protein content.); 1 tablespoon Apple cider vinegar (Balances flavors with a touch of acidity.); 1 teaspoon Garlic powder (Infuses aromatic, savory notes.); 1 teaspoon Onion powder (Enhances the overall taste with its sweetness.); 1 teaspoon Dried oregano (Gives an earthy flavor that complements the spices.); 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika (Adds a delicious smokiness to mimic grilled steak.); 1 teaspoon Ground coriander (Offers a light, citrusy note that brightens the dish.); 1 teaspoon Ground cumin (Deepens the flavor with its warmth.); 1 teaspoon Ground mustard or prepared mustard (Lends a subtle kick and tang.); 1/2 teaspoon Freshly cracked black pepper (For just the right amount of spice.); 1/2 teaspoon Chili powder (Adds a hint of heat to awaken your taste buds.); 1 cup Vital wheat gluten (The star ingredient that gives this Vegan Steak its chewy, steak-like texture.)

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When the craving for a hearty meal strikes, nothing quite compares to the satisfaction of sinking your teeth into a juicy, flavorful steak. But what if you could indulge in that sensation while sticking to a plant-based lifestyle? Enter my quick and delicious Vegan Steak, made from seitan that’s packed with flavor and protein. The first time I decided to whip up this dish, I thought, “How can something so simple taste so good?” The result was a smoky, tender steak that left my taste buds dancing!

This recipe has become my go-to whenever I want to impress friends or family, even those who aren’t plant-based. It features pantry staples like kidney beans and spices that come together seamlessly to create a texture that rivals the real deal. Plus, it cooks in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ. With its versatility and easy preparation, it’s time to give your fast food habits a break and dive into a delicious world of homemade vegan delights. Get ready to savor every bite!

Why is Vegan Steak so satisfying?

Packed with flavor, this Vegan Steak melds spices and proteins for a delightful meal everyone will love.
Quick to make, it cooks in just 25 minutes—perfect for busy nights!
Versatile, you can grill, sear, or even enjoy it cold.
Nutritious, it’s a protein powerhouse made from simple ingredients you probably have on hand.
Crowd-pleaser status guaranteed—mindful eaters and meat lovers alike will rave about it!
Make this dish for your next gathering to wow your guests with a delicious twist on a classic favorite.

Ingredients for Vegan Steak

• Here’s everything you need to create this delightful dish!

For the Base

Dark red kidney beans – a great source of protein and adds creaminess to the texture.
Reduced sodium soy sauce (or No-Soy) – brings depth of flavor; for a gluten-free alternative, use tamari.
Water – helps blend the ingredients to a smooth consistency.
Tomato paste – adds umami richness and moisture.
Nutritional yeast – gives a cheesy, nutty flavor and boosts the protein content.
Apple cider vinegar – balances flavors with a touch of acidity.

For the Seasoning

Garlic powder – infuses aromatic, savory notes.
Onion powder – enhances the overall taste with its sweetness.
Dried oregano – gives an earthy flavor that complements the spices.
Smoked paprika – adds a delicious smokiness to mimic grilled steak.
Ground coriander – offers a light, citrusy note that brightens the dish.
Ground cumin – deepens the flavor with its warmth.
Ground mustard or prepared mustard – lends a subtle kick and tang.
Freshly cracked black pepper – for just the right amount of spice.
Chili powder – adds a hint of heat to awaken your taste buds.

For the Structure

Vital wheat gluten – the star ingredient that gives this Vegan Steak its chewy, steak-like texture.

Ready to transform your kitchen into a haven of mouthwatering flavor? Let’s get cooking!

How to Make Vegan Steak

Blend all ingredients except for the vital wheat gluten in a food processor. Mix until smooth, ensuring to scrape down the sides for an even consistency. This will provide a solid base for your Vegan Steak.
Combine the vital wheat gluten with the blended mixture. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The dough should have a slightly sticky texture but hold together well.
Prepare your steamer pot by adding 1-2 inches of water to the base. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. You’ll want this steam to help cook your Vegan Steak evenly.
Shape a piece of aluminum foil on your work surface and transfer the seitan dough onto it. Press it into a rough log shape and divide it into 4 equal portions. This will make it easier to handle and steam.
Form each piece into a steak-like shape, approximately ¾ inch to an inch thick. Carefully wrap each piece in foil, securing it tightly to keep the moisture in. Repeat with all portions.
Steam the wrapped parcels! Once your water is boiling, place the foil-wrapped Vegan Steaks into your steamer basket. Cover with a lid and cook for about 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
Rest the steaks for at least 10 minutes after cooking. This allows them to firm up and makes them easier to handle. Use tongs to move the parcels to a plate.
Serve immediately or sear them in a pan for 2 minutes on each side for a delightful crispy finish. Alternatively, refrigerate until cool for firmer steaks ready to enjoy later.

Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Vegan Steaks are a fantastic choice for meal prep, ensuring you have a hearty plant-based option ready to go! You can prepare the seitan dough up to 24 hours in advance—simply blend all ingredients except the vital wheat gluten, then store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy, mix in the vital wheat gluten and proceed to shape and steam the steaks. This keeps the flavors fresh while saving time on busy weeknights! If you want to take it a step further, the cooked Vegan Steaks can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in a pan for a couple of minutes before serving to bring back that delightful texture. Enjoy the convenience of having these flavorful steaks ready to impress at any meal!

Vegan Steak Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these creative twists to customize your Vegan Steak experience!

Gluten-Free: Substitute vital wheat gluten with chickpea flour to create a delicious and chewy steak alternative, perfect for those avoiding gluten.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the mix to turn up the heat and give your steak a fiery flavor that’ll awaken your taste buds!
Smoky & Sweet: Incorporate a tablespoon of maple syrup along with smoked paprika for a delightful balance of sweetness and savory smokiness, adding complexity to every bite.
Herbaceous Twist: Mix in fresh herbs like chopped cilantro or parsley for a refreshing note that brightens the dish and adds a touch of color when plated.
Fruity Flavor: Blend in a tablespoon of mashed ripe avocado to introduce creaminess and a subtle, nutritious flavor that enhances the overall texture.
Mediterranean Flair: Swap onion powder with dried thyme and oregano for an irresistible Mediterranean flair that pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables and a side of quinoa.
BBQ Style: Brush the cooked steaks with your favorite BBQ sauce before grilling or searing them for a sticky, caramelized crust that’s perfect for summer cookouts.

Let your imagination run wild, and enjoy discovering the delicious possibilities!

How to Store and Freeze Vegan Steak

Fridge: Store cooked Vegan Steak in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This helps maintain its flavor and texture for delicious meals later in the week.

Freezer: Wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw before reheating.

Reheating: Warm up the Vegan Steak in a hot skillet for 3-4 minutes on each side, or microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through. This method revives its tender texture beautifully!

Room Temperature: It’s best to consume Vegan Steak right after cooking, but if necessary, it can sit out for no more than 2 hours before refrigerating for optimal freshness.

What to Serve with Seitan Steak?

Elevate your mealtime experience by pairing this savory delight with complementary sides and drinks that harmonize beautifully.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness balances the chewy texture of seitan, creating a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug.
Grilled Asparagus: Crisp and slightly charred, these add a bright flavor and crunch that cut through the heartiness of the steak. Toss with olive oil and lemon before grilling!
Roasted Vegetables: A mix of colorful seasonal veggies brings sweetness and earthiness to the table, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Think carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini for a rainbow effect!
Quinoa Salad: Packed with protein and a variety of textures, this refreshing salad adds a nutty flavor and keeps your meal light. Mix it with a zesty vinaigrette for an extra kick.
Vegan Coleslaw: This cool, crunchy side packed with vibrant cabbage and carrots provides a fantastic contrast to the warm seitan. The added vinegar helps to brighten the dish!
Red Wine: A glass of merlot or malbec enhances the savory notes of the seitan, creating a dining experience that’s sophisticated yet relaxed.
Chocolate Avocado Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note with this rich and creamy dessert. It’s plant-based, indulgent, and surprisingly light, making it the perfect finale!
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and smoky, corn adds a fun and festive element to the dinner plate and pairs incredibly well with the spices from the seitan.
Herbed Couscous: Light and fluffy, couscous flavored with fresh herbs will absorb the flavors of your dinner while adding a delightful texture. Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce!

Expert Tips for Vegan Steak

Blend Well: Ensure your base ingredients are thoroughly blended before adding the vital wheat gluten. This creates a smoother texture and prevents lumps.
Do Not Overmix: When combining the vital wheat gluten, stir until just combined. Overmixing can result in a tough Vegan Steak instead of a tender one.
Use a Steamer: Steaming the wrapped steaks helps maintain moisture and ensures even cooking. Avoid boiling them directly in water, as this can make them soggy.
Let Them Rest: After steaming, resting the steaks for at least 10 minutes allows the flavors to meld and firms up the texture, making it easier to slice.
Sear for Extra Flavor: For a delightful crunch and enhanced flavor, grill or sear your Vegan Steak in a hot pan for an additional 2 minutes on each side before serving.
Store Properly: If making ahead, refrigerate the cooked steaks to achieve a firmer texture. They can be enjoyed later or added to salads and sandwiches!

Seitan Steak Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting dark red kidney beans?
Absolutely! When you’re shopping for dark red kidney beans, look for cans or packages that don’t have dents or bulges, as these could indicate spoilage. The beans should be firm and glistening, not broken or mushy. If you prefer using dried beans, soak them overnight and ensure they’re plump and colorful before cooking to enhance the flavor of your Vegan Steak.

How long can I store cooked Vegan Steak in the fridge?
Very! Cooked Vegan Steak can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For the best flavor and texture, simply reheat it before serving. If you notice any dark spots or an off smell, it’s best to discard it for safety.

Can I freeze leftovers, and what’s the best method?
Absolutely! To freeze your Vegan Steak, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This protects them from freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet or microwave.

What should I do if my Vegan Steak is too tough?
Ah, no worries! If your Vegan Steak turned out tough, it may have been overmixed during preparation. Next time, gently combine the vital wheat gluten until just mixed. For now, try slicing the steak thinly against the grain, which will help break up the fibers and improve the texture, or incorporate it into a stir-fry for a tender finish.

Is this Vegan Steak suitable for people with gluten intolerance?
Only if they form a love triangle with a doctor and a chef! Since vital wheat gluten is the base ingredient for this Vegan Steak, it’s not gluten-free. For a gluten-free version, you can explore using a store-bought meat alternative made from pea protein or other non-gluten grains.

Can I serve this dish to my pets?
Definitely not! While kidney beans are generally safe for pets in moderation, this Vegan Steak contains many spices like garlic and onion powder, which can be toxic to dogs and cats. Always keep your furry friends safe by avoiding human food that contains these ingredients.