How to Make Seitan Hot Dogs: A Plant-Based BBQ Favorite

Mystie Tanner
15 hours ago
3 min read

Looking to take your plant-based BBQ game to the next level? Seitan hot dogs are the perfect hearty, savory, and satisfying option that will win over vegans and meat-eaters alike. Packed with protein, smoky spices, and a chewy, sausage-like texture, these homemade hot dogs are surprisingly easy to make and totally customizable.

Here’s how to make your own seitan hot dogs from scratch!

🌭 What is Seitan?

Seitan (pronounced say-tan) is a high-protein meat alternative made from vital wheat gluten. When seasoned and steamed, it develops a firm, meaty texture that mimics traditional sausages and hot dogs incredibly well. It’s the ideal base for plant-based meats, and it soaks up flavor beautifully.

🛒 Ingredients

3 ounces firm tofu

1 ounce carrots, boiled

1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

¼ teaspoon garlic powder

¼ teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon olive oil

½ teaspoon liquid smoke

2 tablespoons water

⅔ cup vital wheat gluten

Optional- 2 Tablespoon Nutritional yeast

🧑‍🍳 Instructions

Mix Wet Ingredients:

In a blender mix everything except the vital wheat gluten until smooth.

Combine and Knead:

Pour the vital wheat gluten into the bender mix just until ball forms then knead for about 1-2 minutes to develop the gluten. The dough should be elastic but not overly tough. ( The longer you knead it the tougher it gets)

They don't stay in a perfect "dog shap" until rolled tight in foil and steamed.

Shape the Hot Dogs:

Divide the dough into 4-6 pieces. Roll each into a log shape, about the size of a hot dog. Wrap each one tightly in foil or parchment paper and twist the ends like a candy wrapper to seal. ( Don't worry if the don't look perfect or that they are lumpy * once wrapped and steamed they turn out great. 👍)

Steam the Seitan:

Place the wrapped hot dogs in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for 30 minutes. Check the water occasionally and add more if needed.

Wrap tight and twist the ends so they hold that shape, cover and steam for 30min

Cool and Unwrap:

Let the hot dogs cool for 10–15 minutes before unwrapping. They’ll firm up more as they cool.

Finish on the Grill or Pan (Optional):

For the best texture and flavor, give your seitan dogs a quick grill or pan-fry to brown the outsides and add some char.

Look at those.. they turned out Amazing!

🌟 Serving Suggestions

Serve on a toasted bun with ketchup, mustard, relish, and onions.

Go gourmet with toppings like sauerkraut, avocado, pickled jalapeños, or vegan cheese, maybe even a chilli dog.!

Slice into mac & cheese or wrap in dough to make plant-based pigs in a blanket.

💡 Tips & Variations

Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper or cayenne for a spicy kick.

Smoky boost: Increase the liquid smoke or try smoked salt.

Texture tweak: For a softer hot dog, reduce kneading time. For a firmer bite, knead a little longer.

🌱 Final Thoughts

Homemade seitan hot dogs are a fun and flavorful way to enjoy a classic cookout staple without the meat. They’re protein-packed, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable. Once you try them, you might never go back to store-bought!

We took these for our family 4th of July BBQ , they were PERFECT!! Ready to impress at your next barbecue? Fire up the grill and give these seitan hot dogs a try—you won’t regret it!

Anthony's' Vital Wheat Gluten- https://amzn.to/3FKvN64

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