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vegan steak

Vegan Steak

This vegan steak recipe offers a hearty, satisfying alternative to traditional steak, made from protein-rich ingredients like seitan or tempeh. Packed with flavor and perfect for grilling or sautéing, it's an excellent choice for plant-based meals or gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 people
Calories 375 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Food processor

Ingredients
  

Seitan Steaks

  • 1/2 cup vegetable broth or water
  • 1/2 tsp liquid smoke
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp ground cumin
  • 3/4 cup rinsed and dranined cooked lentils
  • 2 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup tomato paste
  • 1 3/4 cup vital wheat gluten

Marinade

  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp pure maple syrup
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions
 

  • Begin by adding all the ingredients for the seitan steaks to a food processor.
  • Pulse the mixture until everything is well combined, scraping down the sides as needed.
  • Transfer the mixture onto a clean surface.
  • If it feels sticky, sprinkle a little vital wheat gluten to help prevent sticking.
  • Knead the mixture for a few minutes until it forms a cohesive dough.
  • Flatten it slightly and cut it into four equal sections.
  • Use your hands or a potato masher to press the sections into thinner steak shapes, ideally around an inch thick.
  • Place the formed steaks in a steamer basket and steam them for about 30 minutes.
  • Ensure there’s enough water at the bottom to prevent it from drying out.
  • If you prefer, you can wrap the steaks in foil before steaming, though it’s not necessary.
  • While the steaks are steaming, whisk together the marinade ingredients in a shallow dish.
  • Once the steaks are done steaming, remove them and submerge them in the marinade, turning them a few times to coat thoroughly.
  • Heat a large pan, preferably a cast iron grill pan, over medium heat with a bit of oil.
  • Add the marinated steaks and cook them for a few minutes on each side until they develop a nice char.
  • If desired, brush the steaks with a little more marinade right before removing them from the pan for added flavor and moisture.
  • Serve the steaks hot with sides like baked potatoes and vegan sour cream, or any other accompaniments you enjoy.

Notes

  • For the best flavor, allow the marinated steaks to sit for at least 15 minutes before cooking.
  • This helps the marinade penetrate the seitan, enhancing the overall taste and making for a more flavorful dish.
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