Mouth-watering Vegan Seitan Gyro Recipe
Are you in the mood for a delicious vegan dish that will satisfy your cravings? Look no further than this Vegan Seitan Gyro with Cucumber Sauce recipe! This plant-based alternative to traditional gyro meat is packed with flavor and will leave you feeling energized and satisfied. With fresh ingredients like juicy tomatoes, crisp lettuce, and tangy cucumber sauce made from scratch, this easy vegan gyro recipe is perfect for any occasion.
But what sets this recipe apart from other vegan gyros? Our innovative use of seitan, also known as wheat meat, to create a perfect plant-based substitute for traditional gyro meat. Paired with our homemade tzatziki sauce made with soy yogurt and infused with essential spices like dill weed and lemon juice, it’s an unbeatable combination.
Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also brimming with nutritional benefits. Seitan is high in plant-based protein, and the veggie-packed toppings provide essential vitamins and minerals. Plus, it’s all made fresh from scratch – no preservatives or artificial additives here!
So go ahead and give this easy vegan gyro recipe a try – whether you’re a long-time vegetarian or just trying to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet. Trust us, your taste buds and your body will thank you.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
When it comes to vegan options, it can be challenging to find something that is flavorful, filling and satisfying. But let me tell you, this vegan seitan gyro with cucumber sauce is a game changer!
For starters, the combination of spices used in this recipe – cayenne pepper, nutmeg, cinnamon, oregano and cumin – makes for a deliciously fragrant and savory gyro meat alternative that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Plus, the addition of garlic cloves and fresh ground pepper add a bit of depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
But let’s not forget about the refreshing and tangy cucumber sauce! This sauce made with soy yogurt, lemon juice, grated cucumber, and dried dill weed is a perfect complement to the gyros. The coolness and creaminess of the sauce balances out the spiciness of the seitan meat perfectly.
What sets this recipe apart from other vegan gyro recipes is the use of vital wheat gluten to make vegan seitan, which gives it a beefy-style plant protein that is both nutritious and hearty. And if you’re looking for a low sugar alternative, this recipe uses turbinado sugar instead of refined sugar.
Whether you’re a long-time vegan or looking for some easy vegan recipes to try out, this easy vegan gyro with tzatziki sauce will definitely impress your taste buds. Not only is this recipe packed full of flavor but it’s an excellent plant-based meal option that will leave you feeling satisfied and content.
Ingredient List
Ingredients:
For Gyros:
- 1 ½ cups vital wheat gluten
- 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice
- ¾ cup of vegetable broth
- 3 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
For Cucumber Sauce:
- 1 large English or hothouse cucumber, peeled and grated
- Salt for extracting water from cucumber
- 2 cups of vegan Greek-style yogurt (soy yogurt unsweetened)
- Juice of half a lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh flat dill weed, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Gyros Optional Toppings and Sides:
- Thin sliced lettuce
- Thin sliced ripe tomatoes
- Thinly sliced onion
- Warm pitas or gyro bread (optional for wrap)
Make sure you get all the ingredients in the quantity listed above for making a batch of vegan seitan gyros with cucumber sauce recipe.
The Recipe How-To
Now that you have gathered all of the ingredients for this vegan seitan gyro w/ cucumber sauce recipe, let’s get started with the recipe how-to.
Step 1: Prepare the Seitan Gyros
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In a large mixing bowl, add 1 1/2 cups vital wheat gluten and spices – 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon oregano, 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon.
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Mix all the dry ingredients with a spoon until evenly combined.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup water, 4 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 tablespoons tomato paste, and 2 tablespoons neutral-flavored oil like canola oil.
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Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and stir until well combined.
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Knead the dough with your hands for about five minutes. This will activate the gluten and create stronger bonds in the dough texture.
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Separate the dough into four equal pieces and stretch each piece into a log shape about six inches long by two inches high.
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In a steaming basket over boiling water on medium heat, steam each log of dough for 30 minutes with a lid on top of the pot.
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After steaming, remove seitan logs from heat and let them cool down for at least ten minutes before cutting them into thinner gyros strips.
Step 2: Make The Cucumber Sauce
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Create vegan tzatziki sauce recipe by combining 1 cup soy yogurt (unsweetened), grated and peeled cucumber (about two large cucumbers), 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed), 1 tablespoon dried dill weed, salt to taste (about 1/2 teaspoon), freshly ground black pepper to taste (about 1/4 teaspoon), and one minced garlic clove.
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Whisk all the ingredients in a medium-size mixing bowl until combined.
Step 3: Assemble Your Vegan Seitan Gyro Waffles With Cucumber Sauce
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Set oven to broil and place your seitan gyros slices onto an oven-safe pan or rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
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Add sliced onions and peppers on top of it if you like extra flavor for your toppings.
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Lift oven rack near the top of the oven..
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Broil for about five minutes or until tops are slightly browned but not burnt.
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In another pan, heat up some pita bread or flatbread for thirty seconds on each side over medium-high heat.
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Spread tahini sauce on top of your pita bread flatbread if you choose to use it as an alternative topping sauce.
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Add lettuce leaves or chopped tomatoes on pita bread flatbread before placing your seitan gyros slices topped with onions and peppers to form an amazingly delicious vegan
Substitutions and Variations
Do you want to try out a new flavor combo or have certain dietary restrictions? Fear not! There are plenty of alternatives that you can use to make this vegan gyro recipe your own.
For those who cannot consume gluten, try substituting the seitan gyro meat with jackfruit, tempeh, tofu, or even mushrooms. While these ingredients may not pack as much protein as seitan, they still provide a meaty texture and can be flavored to your liking.
If you want an alternative Tzatziki sauce recipe, there are many ways you can mix it up. For instance, traditional Greek yogurt could easily be replaced with soy yogurt or cashew cream. You could also add chopped fresh mint, parsley or cilantro to the cucumber mixture for an even more refreshing taste.
For a healthier twist on the classic gyro, swap out the pita bread with lettuce wraps. Romaine or iceberg lettuce leaves work well and will give the dish an extra crunch. You can even use whole wheat pitas or tortillas for a high fiber option.
If you’re looking for a way to spice things up a bit, experiment with different herbs and spices in the seitan gyro meat. Cayenne pepper, nutmeg, cinnamon, oregano, cumin and garlic cloves all work well and can give your dish an extra bite if you’re into spicy food.
Whatever substitutions or variations you choose, just make sure to keep the balance of flavors in mind. A little bit of acidity from lemon juice goes a long way in complementing the savory flavors of the gyro meat and cucumber sauce. With just a few tweaks, you can create a unique and delicious vegan gyro dish that will satisfy your cravings every time.
Serving and Pairing
Now that you have made your delicious vegan seitan gyros with cucumber sauce, it’s time to serve and enjoy!
The classic way to serve gyros is in pita bread. You can either heat up your pita bread slightly or have it at room temperature. Cut open the pita and fill it with a generous serving of the seitan gyro meat, onions, lettuce, and tomatoes. Spoon some cucumber-tzatziki sauce over the top to add a refreshing tanginess to the dish.
You can also serve your seitan gyros on a large lettuce leaf for a low-carb alternative to pita bread. Plus, it adds an extra layer of freshness to each bite.
To enhance the flavors of this plant-based delight, pair your vegan seitan gyros with some sides like crispy roasted potatoes or baked sweet potato fries. You can also serve baby greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette for a light and healthy option.
If you prefer something more traditional, tzatziki sauce goes well with many Mediterranean dishes like falafel, stuffed grape leaves, or hummus. You can also use tahini sauce instead of tzatziki sauce if you are not a fan of cucumber.
Either way, whether you’re serving these at a dinner party or making them for your family for dinner tonight – these easy vegan gyros will not disappoint!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
We understand that life can get busy, and meal prep is an integral part of healthy eating. That’s why this Vegan Seitan Gyro w/ Cucumber Sauce recipe offers an easy and convenient make-ahead option. After cooking, the seitan gyros can be wrapped up and stored in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for later use.
To reheat, unwrap the seitan gyro from its foil and place it in a skillet with a little bit of oil over medium heat until warmed through. Alternatively, you can use the oven or toaster to heat your refrigerated or frozen gyros until they’re warm and crispy.
When working with gyro meat replacements like vital wheat gluten, it is recommended to store them uncooked in an airtight container rather than as formed pieces. When ready to cook, form them into patties, bake or fry them according to the recipe instructions.
If you decide to prepare the cucumber sauce ahead of time, cover and store it in the refrigerator until ready for use. Its flavor will continue to develop over time, making it even more delicious!
By following these tips, you can easily incorporate this vegan seitan gyro recipe into your meal prep routine without sacrificing taste or quality!
Tips for Perfect Results
Let me share some tips to make your vegan seitan gyro w/ cucumber sauce recipe a success. First, when making the seitan gyros, make sure your dough is kneaded well, this will give it a chewy texture similar to real gyro meat. Also, let it rest for at least 30 minutes in the broth to help it absorb the flavors.
Secondly, if you want to avoid having a crumbly texture on your seitan gyros, make sure to simmer it instead of boiling. Boiling the seitan can cause it to become tough and dry.
Thirdly, don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning in the cucumber sauce. If you prefer it to be tangier, add more lemon juice or even a dash of vinegar. And if you like it creamier, add more vegan Greek yogurt.
Fourthly, be generous with the toppings! Add plenty of lettuce, onions, and tomatoes for extra freshness and crunch. Some cayenne pepper can also give your dish a spicy kick.
Lastly, when serving, warm up your pita bread or wrap it in foil and place in a preheated oven for a few minutes. This will help them become softer and more pliable so that they can hold all those delicious vegan gyro fillings in place.
With these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to create a delicious vegan seitan gyro w/ cucumber sauce that will satisfy your cravings without sacrificing taste or quality!
FAQ
Now that you know how to make a delicious Vegan Seitan Gyro W/ Cucumber Sauce, it’s time to address any concerns or questions you might have. In this section, I’ll be answering some frequently asked questions to ensure that you have all the information you need to achieve perfect results. So, grab a glass of water and let’s dive into these FAQs!
What is gyro cucumber sauce made of?
Tzatziki is a popular dip or sauce that boasts the rich flavor of simple ingredients. The smooth and creamy texture is achieved through the use of strained yogurt, combined with fresh cucumbers, garlic, and aromatic dill or mint. While it is traditionally made with sheep or goat’s milk yogurt, a full-fat Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute.
What is the sauce on a gyro made of?
Originating from Greece, Tzatziki is a classic sauce composed of cucumber, garlic, and yogurt. Additional flavors like lemon juice or herbs such as dill, mint, or parsley may be incorporated for added taste and depth of flavor.
What is vegan gyro meat made of?
Typically, a gyro dish includes meat cooked on a rotisserie and yogurt in the sauce, which makes this dish non-vegan. However, I have created a recipe for Vegan Gyros that replaces those ingredients with plant-based yogurt and chickpeas, resulting in a delicious vegan alternative.
Does seitan feel like meat?
Seitan is a versatile ingredient frequently used in vegan cuisine. Comparable to tofu, it can be shaped and seasoned to suit any cooking style. Thanks to its meaty taste and texture, seitan works surprisingly well as a substitute for traditional meat-based dishes.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this vegan seitan gyro recipe is the perfect way to satisfy your cravings for a delicious plant-based meal. With its juicy and savory seitan gyro meat, refreshing cucumber sauce, and flavorful blend of spices and herbs, this recipe has everything you need to create a mouth-watering and satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for an easy vegan option or simply want to try something new, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
So why not give it a try today? With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can whip up a batch of these delicious vegan seitan gyros in no time. And with endless options for substitutions and variations, you can easily customize the recipe to suit your tastes and preferences.
So go ahead – fire up the grill or heat up your oven, grab some pita bread and tahini sauce, and get ready to enjoy a delicious plant-based meal that’s sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. With this recipe in your arsenal, there’s no limit to the delicious vegan meals you can create!
Vegan Seitan Gyro W/ Cucumber Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
For the sauce
- 1 cup soy yogurt, unsweetened
- 1/2 large cucumber, peeled and grated
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, fresh
- 1 teaspoon dried dill weed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- fresh ground pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon turbinado sugar (to taste)
For the seitan
- 1 lb seitan, shaved into thin, bite-sized bits
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 2 teaspoons oregano
- 1 pinch cinnamon
- 1 pinch nutmeg
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper
- salt & freshly ground black pepper
For the sandwich
- 2 small tomatoes, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cups lettuce, shredded
- 6 pieces pita bread, warmed
Instructions
- Peel and grate the cucumber. Put the grated cucumber into a strainer and set in the sink for 10 minutes to drain.
- Squeeze the cucumber to remove excess moisture and place into a small bowl. Add the remaining ingredients and stir well to combine. Cover and place in the fridge to let the flavors meld while you cook.
- Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the seitan bits and garlic and stir until the seitan begins to brown. Add all of the seasonings and stir well. Sautee until the seitan is well cooked and fragrant. Turn off the heat.
- Assemble the sandwich with the shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes and onions, cooked seitan and cucumber sauce. Eat open-face or fold up and hold on tight!
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Jolo is a talented chef and food blogger with a passion for vegan and Caribbean flavors. From savory vegetarian dishes to tropical smoothies, Jolo’s Kitchen has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for meat-free meals or creative Caribbean recipes, Jolo’s Kitchen is the perfect place for you.