Easy High-Protein Vegan Braised Seitan with Brussels Sprouts & Sun-Dried Tomatoes

2 週間前

Inspired by: @edav334

Craving a hearty, protein-packed, and incredibly flavorful vegan meal that doesn't demand hours in the kitchen? You've found it! This Braised Seitan with Brussels Sprouts and Sun-Dried Tomatoes recipe is your answer for a satisfying, nutrient-rich dish that's surprisingly simple to prepare. Even if you're not a seasoned chef, like our original recipe inspiration edav334 who described themselves as "not a great cook" but found this recipe easy to make and "tastes amazing!", you'll love how effortlessly this comes together.

This dish is perfect for anyone looking to increase their plant-based protein intake, incorporate more vegetables into their diet, or simply enjoy a comforting, gourmet-style meal on a busy weeknight. Imagine a rich, savory braised seitan, tender Brussels sprouts, and bursts of sweet, tangy sun-dried tomatoes all mingling in a delicious sauce – it's a taste sensation that will quickly become a family favorite.

What is Braised Seitan?

Seitan, often called "wheat meat," is a fantastic plant-based protein source known for its savory, chewy texture that mimics meat. Braising involves cooking food slowly in a small amount of liquid, resulting in incredibly tender, flavorful results. When combined, braised seitan offers a deep umami flavor and a satisfying bite, making it a staple in many vegan kitchens.

Ingredients

16 oz (450g) block of pre-made seitan, drained and sliced into 1-inch thick pieces or cubes
1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb (450g) fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed), drained and roughly chopped
2 cups vegetable broth or vegetable stock
1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried thyme
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or chili flakes for garnish (optional)

Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven with a lid
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Stir in the seitan pieces and cook for 3-5 minutes, allowing them to brown slightly on all sides.
Add the halved Brussels sprouts and chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the pot. Stir well to combine.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable broth, soy sauce (or tamari), tomato paste, dried oregano, and thyme.
Pour the liquid mixture over the seitan and vegetables in the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it braise for 25-30 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender and the sauce has slightly thickened. Stir occasionally.
Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of chili flakes if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes.

Image

A close-up shot of a vibrant, hearty vegan braised seitan dish with tender Brussels sprouts and sun-dried tomatoes, served in a rustic bowl.

Variations & Adaptations

Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in other hearty vegetables like chopped carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers during the braising process.
Spice It Up: For a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the braising liquid.
Gluten-Free Option: Ensure your seitan is gluten-free (some contain wheat) and use tamari instead of soy sauce.
Herb Garden Freshness: Substitute dried herbs with fresh ones (e.g., a sprig of rosemary or thyme) for an even richer aroma. Add fresh herbs in the last 10 minutes of braising.
Creamy Finish: Stir in a tablespoon of vegan butter or a splash of plant milk like oat milk or coconut cream at the very end for a richer sauce.

Tips & Hacks

Seitan Prep: If using a whole block of seitan, slicing it into even pieces ensures uniform cooking. You can also lightly pan-fry the seitan before braising for extra texture and a deeper browned flavor.
Brussels Sprout Boost: To get an extra nutty flavor from your Brussels sprouts, you can roast them lightly in the oven for 10-15 minutes before adding them to the braise.
Make Ahead Magic: This dish is fantastic for meal prepping! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the lid for the last 5-10 minutes of cooking to allow the liquid to reduce, or mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the simmering sauce until thickened.

Ready to try this amazing recipe? Whip up this Braised Seitan with Brussels Sprouts and Sun-Dried Tomatoes tonight and experience how delicious and easy plant-based eating can be. Don't forget to share your creations and reviews on abillion!