If you’re cutting down on animal products but still love the idea of a hearty roast or sizzling sausage, there’s a fantastic option you might not have tried yet- seitan. This chewy, protein-rich food made from wheat gluten has been used in vegetarian and Buddhist cooking for centuries, and it’s incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Unlike tofu or tempeh, seitan mimics the texture of meat remarkably well and can be seasoned to suit just about any dish.
Seitan can be sliced, grilled, baked or fried, making it a great addition to salads, sandwiches, stir-fries or a roast dinner. It’s also very satisfying to make from scratch, especially when you get hands-on shaping your own sausages or roasting a whole “beaf.”
But seitan is just one of many meat alternatives available, and each brings something unique to the table. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Popular Plant-Based Meat Alternatives
Tofu: Made from soybeans and pressed into blocks, tofu is mild in flavour and absorbs whatever you cook it with. Great for grilling, stir-fries or scrambles.
Tempeh: Fermented soybeans with a nutty flavour and dense texture. Packed with protein and probiotics.
Jackfruit: Young jackfruit is fibrous and works well in pulled ‘pork’ style recipes or tacos.
Lentils and Legumes: Affordable, hearty, and high in fibre and protein. Use them in bolognese sauces, meatballs or veggie patties.
Mushrooms: Especially portobello and oyster mushrooms—known for their meaty texture and umami depth. Ideal for grilling or adding richness to plant-based meals.
Commercial Meat Alternatives: Brands like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods mimic the taste and feel of real meat. Convenient and familiar, though often more processed.
Seitan: Made from vital wheat gluten, seitan is the MVP for chewy, satisfying meat-free dishes. Think sausages, roasts, and “steaks.”
Ready to Make Your Own?
If you’re curious about trying seitan at home, we’re hosting a Seitan Making Workshop with Gabrielle where you’ll:
- Learn what seitan is and where it comes from
- Mix and shape your own sausages (hands-on!)
- Watch a demo on making roast “beaf” from scratch
- Enjoy a picnic in our garden with your creations on a bun
This is a great opportunity to explore a new cooking technique, connect with others, and discover how delicious homemade meat alternatives can be.
Please note: this workshop isn’t suitable for those with gluten intolerance or coeliac disease.
Join us and taste the difference! Grab your tickets here.