Easy Seitan Teriyaki

Easy Seitan Teriyaki is a flavorful, protein-packed vegan dish that brings bold teriyaki flavor to a chewy, meat-like texture. Perfect for stir-fries, rice bowls, or noodle dishes, this quick and satisfying meal comes together in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish delivers all the sweet-savory satisfaction of traditional teriyaki without any meat. Seitan, a high-protein wheat gluten, soaks up the rich teriyaki sauce beautifully. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just trying to eat more plant-based meals, this recipe is quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Seitan (store-bought or homemade)
• Soy sauce
• Brown sugar or maple syrup
• Rice vinegar
• Fresh garlic
• Fresh ginger
• Cornstarch
• Water
• Toasted sesame oil
• Scallions or sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Directions

this recipe

1. Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar or maple syrup, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, cornstarch, and water. Set aside.
2. Cook the seitan: In a skillet over medium-high heat, add a splash of sesame oil. Add sliced or torn seitan and cook for 4–5 minutes until browned on all sides.
3. Add the sauce: Pour the teriyaki sauce mixture into the pan with the seitan. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and coats the seitan, about 2–3 minutes.
4. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped scallions or sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 2–3 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy version: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or chili flakes to the sauce for heat.
• Low-sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce salt content.
• Ginger-lovers: Double the ginger for a sharper, more aromatic sauce.
• Add veggies: Toss in bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas during the final minutes of cooking.
• Gluten-free: Replace seitan with tofu or tempeh and use tamari instead of soy sauce.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, microwave for 1–2 minutes or warm in a skillet over medium heat until hot. Add a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Seitan teriyaki is also freezer-friendly for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What is seitan made of?

Seitan is made from vital wheat gluten, the protein-rich part of wheat. It has a chewy, meat-like texture.

Can I make seitan from scratch?

Yes, you can make seitan at home using vital wheat gluten, water, and seasonings. Store-bought works great for convenience.

Is seitan healthy?

Seitan is high in protein and low in fat, but it’s not suitable for those with gluten intolerance.

Can I use tofu instead of seitan?

Absolutely. Firm tofu works well and also absorbs the teriyaki sauce nicely.

What kind of soy sauce should I use?

Use regular or low-sodium soy sauce depending on your preference. Tamari is a good gluten-free option.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

The cornstarch in the sauce will thicken it as it cooks. If it’s too thin, cook it a little longer.

Can I meal prep this dish?

Yes, seitan teriyaki holds up well in the fridge, making it great for meal prep.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, the sweet-savory flavor appeals to many kids. Omit spicy elements if needed.

What should I serve this with?

It pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely. Just scale up the ingredients and use a larger pan if needed.

Conclusion

Easy Seitan Teriyaki is a fast, flavorful, and plant-powered meal you’ll want to make again and again. Whether served over rice, tossed with noodles, or wrapped in lettuce, its bold teriyaki glaze and satisfying texture make it a standout in your weekly rotation. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious, cruelty-free twist on a takeout favorite.

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