Tag: Wheat meat

With a history dating back to 6th-century China, seitan, a popular meat alternative, has acquired several names over its long history. Its chewy, fibrous texture has earned it monikers that range from descriptive to regional, making its identity a bit of a mystery for those new to plant-based diets.

First developed by Buddhist monks in China over a thousand years ago as a meat alternative, this plant-based protein has gained popularity globally. For those exploring vegan cuisine, the answer to 'what is wheat meat called?' is seitan.

Per a 2025 study cited by EatingWell, store-bought seasoned seitan may contain added fat, sugar, and salt, which significantly alters its nutritional profile. This raises a critical question for plant-based eaters: is homemade seitan healthy, or is it merely processed gluten?

Originating from ancient China, seitan, or 'wheat meat', has been a plant-based staple for centuries. Many people mistakenly ask, "Is seitan made from soybeans?" The answer is no, it is made from wheat gluten, not soybeans.

Made from wheat gluten, seitan is a popular plant-based meat alternative known for its savory umami flavor and meaty texture, which is more similar to chicken or beef than tofu. When it comes to cooking, knowing how do you eat seitan correctly unlocks its full potential, transforming it into a hearty, flavorful dish.

With its meaty texture and ability to absorb flavors, seitan has been a staple in East Asian cuisines for centuries and is now a popular high-protein meat alternative worldwide. Here’s how to take seitan from a simple ingredient to a delicious and satisfying centerpiece for any meal.

Records show that seitan, a gluten-based meat alternative, has been used as a vegetarian food for centuries, tracing its roots back to 6th-century Buddhist monks in ancient China. Known for its versatility and meaty texture, seitan is a popular choice for those seeking a non-soy, plant-based protein.

First documented in China as early as the 6th century, one of the oldest and most versatile meat alternatives is made from concentrated gluten. This dense, plant-based protein, known as seitan, has a remarkably chewy texture that makes it a popular favorite among vegetarians and vegans looking for a satisfying meat substitute.

With its origins tracing back to sixth-century China, where Buddhist vegetarians developed it, seitan is a plant-based food known for its remarkable meat-like texture. This culinary staple is the answer to the question: "what is a pure gluten meat substitute?".

Dating back to 6th-century China, the use of wheat protein as a meat substitute is a culinary tradition perfected by Buddhist monks. This versatile, chewy, and high-protein alternative is now known globally as seitan, offering a rich history and a satisfying plant-based option.