Ingredients:
For the Seitan:
1 cup vital wheat gluten
1/4 cup chickpea flour (optional, for extra texture)
1 cup vegetable broth
2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a smoky flavor)
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Coating:
1 cup flour (all-purpose or chickpea flour)
1 cup plant-based milk (e.g., almond, soy)
1 cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko for extra crunch)
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
For Cooking:
Oil for frying (e.g., vegetable oil or canola oil)
Instructions:
- Make the Seitan:
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the vital wheat gluten, chickpea flour (if using), nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable broth and soy sauce.
Form the Dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until it forms a dough. Knead the dough for about 3-5 minutes until it becomes elastic.
Shape the Tenders: Divide the dough into pieces and shape them into tenders or strips. - Prepare the Coating:
Set Up Breading Station: In three separate shallow dishes, place the flour, plant-based milk, and breadcrumbs mixed with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Bread the Tenders: Dredge each seitan tender in the flour, then dip it in the plant-based milk, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs firmly to adhere well. - Cook the Tenders:
Heat Oil: Heat a generous amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Fry Tenders: Fry the tenders in batches, cooking each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. You can also bake them if you prefer a less oily option (see the baking instructions below). - Optional Baking Instructions:
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare Baking Sheet: Place the breaded tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly oiled rack.
Bake: Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden brown
