Vegan Ham is a delightful and nourishing dish that brings a touch of creativity and heart to any meal. This tasty recipe transforms simple, plant-based ingredients into tender, flavorful slices, perfect for a healthy side or a satisfying main course.
To create this delicious dish, simply combine vital wheat gluten with a blend of savory spices, liquid smoke, and a touch of maple syrup. Steam and then bake until the vegan ham is firm and golden brown. The result is a beautiful and nutritious treat that’s sure to be loved by everyone.
Ideal for dinner parties or cozy family meals, this recipe is easy to make and offers a unique flavor. Each bite contains the tender and smoky taste of ham with a sweet, savory kick, similar to traditional Roasted Frozen Butternut Squash or Crispy Roasted Breakfast Potatoes. Savor the goodness of Vegan Ham and add a new favorite to your collection of healthy recipes.
Overview: How To Make Vegan Ham?
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu Mixture
Drain the tofu and wrap it in paper towels to remove excess moisture. Break into chunks and blend with all ingredients except the vital wheat gluten until smooth. Then, sprinkle the gluten on top and mix until just combined.
Step 2: Shape and Steam
Transfer the dough to a countertop and knead it 20-25 times to form a ham-shaped loaf. Wrap it tightly in foil and place it in a steamer basket with water at the bottom. Cover and steam for 1 hour, flipping halfway through and adding more water if needed.
Step 3: Glaze and Bake
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Whisk together the glaze ingredients in a bowl. After steaming, unwrap the ham and score it in a crisscross pattern, optionally adding whole cloves. Place in a casserole dish, pour the glaze over, and bake uncovered for 30 minutes, basting every 10 minutes. Let cool for a few minutes, slice, and serve. Enjoy it with vegan sides or as sandwiches!
Why You Will Love This Recipe?
You’ll love this Vegan Ham recipe for its deliciously savory flavor and meaty texture that perfectly mimics traditional ham. The combination of tofu and wheat gluten creates a satisfying, protein meal that pairs well with Gluten-Free Lasagna, giving you an overall healthy lunch.
This means you can indulge in the taste of ham without any guilt, making it a fantastic option for vegans and non-vegans alike. The recipe features a delightful maple mustard glaze that adds a burst of sweetness and tanginess to each bite. This glaze caramelizes beautifully during baking, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.
The result is a visually appealing, golden-brown ham that not only tastes amazing but also looks impressive on any dinner table. One of the great aspects of this Vegan Ham is its versatility. It can be enjoyed as the star of a holiday feast, served alongside vegan scalloped potatoes, stuffing, or roasted vegetables.
Alternatively, it can be sliced thin for delicious sandwiches, making it a perfect option for lunch or a quick snack. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe makes it accessible for anyone to try their hand at creating a plant-based ham.
Vegan Ham
Equipment
- 1 Steamer pot
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- whole cloves
- 1 1/2 cups vital wheat gluten
- a few drops of red food colouring
- 1 package extra firm tofu
- 1 tsp granulated onion
- 1 tsp granulated garlic
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 3 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 1 tbsp dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp bouillon vegetarian no beef soup base
- 2 tbsp sesame oil, toasted
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp liquid smoke
- 3/4 cup water
Glaze
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp better than beef bouillon
- 2 1/2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 3 tbsp dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp brown sugar, packed
Instructions
- Drain the tofu and wrap it in paper towels, squeezing out excess moisture.
- Break it into chunks and add it to a food processor along with the remaining ingredients, except for the vital wheat gluten.
- Blend until smooth.
- Sprinkle the vital wheat gluten over the mixture and mix gently until combined, with some flour still visible.
- Knead the dough on a clean surface about 20-25 times to form a loaf shape.
- Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and place it in a steamer insert.
- Steam for 1 hour, checking halfway to ensure there's enough water.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- While the ham steams, whisk together the glaze ingredients and set aside.
- Once the ham is done, unwrap it and score the surface with shallow crisscross cuts.
- Place it in a casserole dish, pour the glaze over, and bake uncovered for 30 minutes, basting every 10 minutes.
Notes
- eftover vegan ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- It can also be frozen for longer storage, ensuring you have a quick meal option on hand.
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 130 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Iron | mg |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Calcium | 150 mg |
Helpful Tips For You
- Moisture Removal: Ensure you thoroughly drain the tofu and press it well to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the texture of the final product.
- Flavor Enhancements: Feel free to experiment with additional herbs and spices in the tofu mixture to customize the flavor to your liking. Smoked paprika or liquid smoke can add a more robust smoky taste.
- Kneading Technique: Knead the dough gently to combine the ingredients without overworking it, which can lead to a tougher texture.
- Steaming Alternative: If you don’t have a steamer pot, you can use a large pot with a metal colander placed inside, making sure the water doesn’t touch the dough.
What to Serve With Vegan Ham?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Unfortunately, this recipe cannot be made gluten-free due to the use of vital wheat gluten, which is essential for creating the ham’s texture. If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, consider using a store-bought vegan ham that is specifically labeled gluten-free.
What can I serve with Vegan Ham?
Vegan Ham pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with vegan scalloped potatoes, mashed potatoes, gravy, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Can I freeze the Vegan Ham?
Yes! After steaming, you can freeze the Vegan Ham for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container. Thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.
How long does the Vegan Ham last in the fridge?
The Vegan Ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you have leftovers, simply reheat them in the oven or on the stovetop for a delicious meal.
Can I use a different type of tofu?
While extra firm tofu is recommended for the best texture, you can experiment with other types. Just be aware that softer tofu may result in a different consistency and may require adjustments in the recipe.