What To Know
- Remove the seitan from the marinade and place it in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Store the jerky in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Indulge in a savory and satisfying snack with our easy-to-follow seitan jerky recipe. Seitan, a wheat-based meat alternative, transforms into a chewy and flavorful jerky that will satisfy your cravings while providing a boost of plant-based protein.
Ingredients
- 1 block (14 ounces) seitan
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup liquid smoke
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spiciness)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Seitan: Remove the seitan from the packaging and cut it into thin strips.
2. Create the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, liquid smoke, maple syrup, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Whisk until well-mixed.
3. Marinate the Seitan: Place the seitan strips in the marinade and toss to coat. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.
4. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to the lowest temperature setting, typically around 170-180 degrees Fahrenheit (77-82 degrees Celsius).
5. Arrange the Seitan: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove the seitan from the marinade and place it in a single layer on the baking sheet.
6. Bake the Jerky: Bake the seitan jerky for 2-3 hours, or until it becomes chewy and slightly crispy around the edges. Flip the strips halfway through the baking time to ensure even cooking.
7. Rest and Enjoy: Allow the jerky to cool slightly before tearing it into bite-sized pieces. Enjoy your homemade seitan jerky as a snack or add it to salads, wraps, or sandwiches.
Tips
- Use a good quality seitan: The quality of your seitan will significantly impact the flavor and texture of your jerky.
- Marinate for longer: For a more intense flavor, marinate the seitan for up to 24 hours.
- Bake at a low temperature: Baking at a low temperature helps the jerky dry out slowly, resulting in a chewy and flavorful texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Allow ample space between the seitan strips to ensure even cooking.
- Store properly: Store the jerky in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Variations
- Spicy Seitan Jerky: Add more cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Teriyaki Seitan Jerky: Replace the soy sauce with teriyaki sauce for a sweeter and savory flavor.
- BBQ Seitan Jerky: Add your favorite BBQ sauce to the marinade for a smoky and tangy taste.
- Herb-Crusted Seitan Jerky: Before baking, coat the marinated seitan strips with a mixture of dried herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, and oregano.
Health Benefits of Seitan Jerky
Seitan jerky is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It is a great source of:
- Protein: Seitan is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids.
- Fiber: Seitan contains dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health and satiety.
- Iron: Seitan is a good source of iron, an essential mineral for red blood cell production.
- Selenium: Seitan contains selenium, an antioxidant that supports thyroid function and immune health.
The Bottom Line
With its chewy texture, savory flavor, and impressive nutritional profile, our seitan jerky recipe is a must-try for vegans, vegetarians, and anyone looking for a satisfying plant-based snack. Experiment with different variations and seasonings to create your own unique jerky creations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use gluten-free seitan for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can substitute gluten-free seitan for regular seitan in this recipe.
Q: How long can I store the seitan jerky?
A: Store the jerky in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Q: Can I use a dehydrator to make seitan jerky?
A: Yes, you can use a dehydrator to make seitan jerky. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the appropriate temperature and drying time.
Q: How do I make a thicker marinade?
A: To thicken the marinade, add 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch or arrowroot powder. Whisk until well-combined before marinating the seitan.
Q: Can I add other seasonings to the marinade?
A: Yes, you can customize the marinade to your taste. Try adding herbs, spices, or citrus zest to create different flavor profiles.
