cajun teryaki vegan jerky recipe Cajun Teriyaki Vegan Jerky Recipe That Everyone Will Love

If you’re craving a snack that’s bursting with bold flavors, yet completely plant-based, this Cajun Teriyaki Vegan Jerky recipe is just what you need. Combining the smoky, spicy zest of Cajun seasoning with the sweet, tangy notes of teriyaki, this vegan jerky is a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy, protein-packed treat without compromising on taste.

Perfect for on-the-go snacking, hiking trips, or simply satisfying those savory cravings, this jerky is easy to make with simple ingredients you might already have in your pantry.

This recipe uses vital wheat gluten (seitan) as the base, which provides a chewy, meaty texture that holds up beautifully to marinades and drying. With a marinade infused with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and a punch of Cajun spices, each bite delivers a complex flavor profile that will keep you coming back for more.

Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, this jerky is a delicious addition to your snack repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Cajun Teriyaki Vegan Jerky. First, it’s entirely plant-based, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians looking for a savory, high-protein snack.

The combination of Cajun spices and teriyaki sauce creates a unique fusion of smoky heat and sweet umami that’s hard to beat.

Additionally, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can adjust the spice level to your liking or experiment with different marinades.

It’s also budget-friendly and doesn’t require any fancy equipment beyond a dehydrator or an oven. Plus, it keeps well stored, so you can make a batch ahead of time for busy days or road trips.

Lastly, making your own jerky means you control every ingredient—no preservatives, no artificial flavors, just wholesome and delicious plant-based goodness.

Ingredients

• 1 cup vital wheat gluten (seitan base)
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 ¼ cup vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
• ¼ cup teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon liquid smoke (optional, for smoky flavor)

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Baking sheet or dehydrator trays
• Dehydrator (preferred) or oven
• Sharp knife or kitchen scissors for slicing
• Plastic wrap or clean kitchen towel for resting dough
• Large ziplock bag or airtight container for marinating

Instructions

1. Prepare the dry mix: In a large bowl, combine the vital wheat gluten, nutritional yeast, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, thyme, and oregano. Mix thoroughly to distribute all the spices.
2. Mix the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable broth, soy sauce, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, Cajun seasoning, ground ginger, minced garlic, teriyaki sauce, and liquid smoke (if using).
3. Combine wet and dry: Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients while stirring with a spoon or your hands. Knead the mixture in the bowl until a dough forms. It should be elastic and slightly firm but pliable.
4. Rest the dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 10 minutes. This helps the gluten develop and improves texture.
5. Shape and slice: On a clean surface, roll the dough into a flat rectangle about ¼ inch thick. Using a sharp knife or kitchen scissors, cut the dough into thin strips about ½ inch wide and 3-4 inches long for jerky pieces.
6. Marinate the strips: Place the strips in a large ziplock bag or container and pour in any remaining marinade. Seal and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for maximum flavor absorption.
7. Preheat dehydrator or oven: Set your dehydrator to 135°F (57°C). If using an oven, preheat to the lowest possible temperature, ideally around 170°F (77°C).
8. Arrange jerky strips: Lay the marinated strips in a single layer on dehydrator trays or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure pieces do not overlap.
9. Dehydrate or bake: Dehydrate for 6-8 hours, checking occasionally for your preferred dryness. If using an oven, bake for about 3-4 hours, flipping halfway through, until jerky is dry but still slightly pliable.
10. Cool and store: Let the jerky cool completely before storing in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerated for 2 weeks.

Tips & Variations

For an extra smoky kick, ensure you use high-quality liquid smoke or add a small chipotle pepper powder to the marinade.

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute vital wheat gluten with thinly sliced king oyster mushrooms or jackfruit, though texture and drying time will vary.

If you prefer a spicier jerky, increase the Cajun seasoning or add cayenne pepper to taste.

Try experimenting with other sauces like hoisin or a spicy sriracha teriyaki blend for a different flavor profile.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This Cajun Teriyaki Vegan Jerky is a fantastic standalone snack any time of day. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp, refreshing drink like iced tea or a sparkling citrus beverage.

For a more substantial treat, chop the jerky and toss it into salads or grain bowls to add a smoky, spicy protein boost. You can also serve it alongside vegan cheese and crackers for an elevated appetizer platter.

Looking for more vegan recipes to complement this snack? Try our Harvest Hash Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Fall Comfort Food or the Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes for hearty, flavorful meals.

Conclusion

Making your own Cajun Teriyaki Vegan Jerky at home is not only rewarding but also allows you to customize the flavors exactly to your liking. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe proves that vegan snacks can be exciting, satisfying, and packed with bold tastes.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring plant-based options, this jerky is a perfect addition to your snack arsenal.

Enjoy the fusion of spicy Cajun heat and sweet teriyaki glaze combined in a chewy, protein-rich seitan base that will keep your taste buds happy and your energy up. Don’t forget to experiment with the marinade or try pairing this jerky with other delicious recipes like the Low Fodmap Appetizer Recipes for a complete culinary adventure.

Happy snacking!

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