If you’re craving the bold, smoky flavors of chorizo but want to keep it entirely plant-based, this Chorizo Seitan Vegan Recipe is a game-changer. Seitan, often called wheat meat, is a fantastic protein-packed base that soaks up spices and seasonings beautifully.
By combining traditional chorizo spices with homemade seitan, you get a wonderfully hearty and flavorful vegan sausage alternative that can be used in tacos, sandwiches, pasta dishes, or even breakfast scrambles.
This recipe is perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone looking to reduce meat consumption without sacrificing taste. Plus, making your own seitan chorizo means you control every ingredient, avoiding preservatives and additives found in store-bought versions.
Get ready for a smoky, spicy, and satisfyingly chewy chorizo experience that will elevate your plant-based cooking to new heights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan chorizo seitan recipe is:
- Rich in flavor with smoky paprika, garlic, and chili heat
- Protein-packed thanks to vital wheat gluten and chickpea flour
- Versatile enough to use in tacos, stews, sandwiches, and more
- Easy to make with simple pantry staples and no complicated steps
- Customizable so you can adjust the spice level to your preference
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups vital wheat gluten – the base protein for seitan
- 1/4 cup chickpea flour – adds firmness and slight nuttiness
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika – key for that smoky chorizo flavor
- 1 tablespoon chili powder – adds heat and depth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin – warm earthiness
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – enhances the savory notes
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup tomato paste – adds depth and slight acidity
- 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari – umami and saltiness
- 3/4 cup vegetable broth – to hydrate the dough
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – richness and moisture
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar – brightens the flavors
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup – balances the heat with a touch of sweetness
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Steaming basket or pot with a lid
- Aluminum foil or cheesecloth (for shaping)
- Sharp knife
- Skillet or frying pan (for browning)
Instructions
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the vital wheat gluten, chickpea flour, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, black pepper, coriander, and salt until evenly combined.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the tomato paste, soy sauce, vegetable broth, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and maple syrup until smooth.
- Form the dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until a dough begins to form, then knead by hand in the bowl for about 3-5 minutes until the dough is elastic but not too sticky.
- Shape the seitan: Divide the dough into two equal pieces. Shape each into a log about 6 inches long and 2 inches thick. Wrap tightly in foil or cheesecloth, twisting the ends to secure.
- Steam the seitan: Place the wrapped logs in a steaming basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for 45 minutes, turning the logs halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Cool and slice: Remove from the steamer and let cool for 10 minutes. Unwrap and slice the seitan into thin rounds or crumble it for use in recipes.
- Brown the seitan: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Add the sliced or crumbled seitan and cook until browned and slightly crispy, about 4-5 minutes per side. This step enhances the texture and flavor.
- Use or store: Use your chorizo seitan immediately in your favorite dishes or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Tips & Variations
For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped chipotle peppers in adobo to the wet mix.
Try adding smoked liquid paprika for an even deeper smoky aroma.
Use vegetable broth infused with dried chilies for a more complex flavor.
If you prefer a firmer seitan, add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast to the dry mix.
For a gluten-free option, check out our Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a delicious alternative.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (approx. 100g) |
---|---|
Calories | 180 kcal |
Protein | 25 g |
Fat | 5 g |
Carbohydrates | 10 g |
Fiber | 3 g |
Sodium | 600 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This chorizo seitan is incredibly versatile. Try it in:
- Vegan tacos: Serve with warm corn tortillas, diced onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
- Breakfast scramble: Crumble and sauté with diced potatoes, peppers, and onions for a hearty start to your day.
- Pasta dishes: Add sliced seitan chorizo to tomato-based sauces for a smoky twist.
- Sandwiches and wraps: Layer with vegan cheese, lettuce, and pickled jalapeños for a flavorful bite.
- Pizza topping: Use as a spicy protein topping on your favorite vegan pizza.
For a tangy side, pair with our Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe to balance the spicy richness perfectly.
Conclusion
This Chorizo Seitan Vegan Recipe is your new go-to for bringing bold, smoky flavors to your plant-based meals. With just a few pantry staples and simple steps, you can create a nutrient-rich, protein-packed chorizo alternative that rivals traditional versions in taste and texture.
Whether you’re making tacos, breakfast scrambles, or pasta, this versatile seitan chorizo elevates any dish with its vibrant spices and satisfying chew.
Not only is it delicious, but it also gives you control over ingredients, ensuring a clean, wholesome meal free from preservatives. Experiment with spice levels and serving ideas to make it uniquely yours.
And if you’re interested in exploring more creative recipes, check out our Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe for another hearty dish or indulge your sweet tooth with the Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe for dessert.
Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Chorizo Seitan Vegan Recipe
Description: A spicy and flavorful vegan chorizo made with seitan and bold spices. Perfect for tacos, sandwiches, or as a protein-packed addition to any meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups vital wheat gluten
- 1/4 cup chickpea flour
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 3/4 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix vital wheat gluten, chickpea flour, and spices.
- In a separate bowl, whisk vegetable broth, tomato paste, soy sauce, vinegar, and olive oil.
- Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir until combined.
- Knead the dough for 3-5 minutes until elastic.
- Shape the dough into a log and wrap tightly in foil.
- Steam for 30 minutes until firm.
- Let cool slightly, then slice or crumble as desired.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 22 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 10 g
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