Fake Steak

Discover the ultimate plant-based protein experience with this savory "Fake Steak" recipe! Perfect for vegans and vegetarians, this hearty dish combines vital wheat gluten, chickpea flour, and a medley of bold spices like smoked paprika and garlic powder to create a tender, steak-like texture bursting with smoky, umami-rich flavor. Steamed to lock in moisture and grilled or pan-seared for that signature charred exterior, these vegan steaks are customizable with a brush of barbecue sauce for extra zing. Ready in just about an hour, this protein-packed recipe is ideal for dinner parties, meal prep, or whenever you're craving a satisfying, meat-free alternative. Pair it with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a fresh garden salad to complete your plant-based feast!

Nutriscore Rating: 65/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups Vital wheat gluten
• 0.25 cups Chickpea flour
• 0.25 cups Nutritional yeast
• 2 teaspoons Smoked paprika
• 1.5 teaspoons Garlic powder
• 1.5 teaspoons Onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Ground black pepper
• 0.25 cups Soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon Liquid smoke
• 0.75 cups Vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil
• 0.5 cups Barbecue sauce (optional, for basting)

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, combine the vital wheat gluten, chickpea flour, nutritional yeast, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground black pepper. Mix well to distribute the dry ingredients evenly.

Step 2

In a separate bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the soy sauce, liquid smoke, vegetable broth, and olive oil until well combined.

Step 3

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms. Knead the dough with your hands for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes elastic and cohesive.

Step 4

Divide the dough into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a steak-like oval, about 1-inch thick.

Step 5

Prepare a steamer basket or pot. Add water to the pot and bring it to a simmer. Place the 'steaks' in the steamer basket (use parchment paper to prevent sticking, if necessary). Cover and steam for 25 minutes, flipping the pieces halfway through steaming.

Step 6

After steaming, let the steaks cool slightly. Heat a grill pan, skillet, or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking.

Step 7

Cook the steamed steaks for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they develop a crispy, charred exterior. Optionally, brush barbecue sauce on each side during the final minute of cooking for added flavor.

Step 8

Serve the fake steaks immediately with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a garden salad.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	777.1 grams (777.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2005

Total Fat 39.30g	50%
Saturated Fat 6.00g	30%
Polyunsaturated Fat 3.30g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 3985mg	173%
Total Carbohydrate 145.80g	53%
Dietary Fiber 12.50g	45%
Total Sugars 58.10g
Protein 273.30g	547%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 609mg	47%
Iron 24mg	132%
Potassium 1587mg	34%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 17.4%

Protein: 53.8%

Carbs: 28.7%