Seitan A La Normandie
Description
This Seitan A La Normandie is a comforting, plant-based main course that marries the rustic charm of French Norman cuisine with hearty protein. The dish features thin slices of seitan, first pan-fried for texture and then slow-braised in a savory mixture of tamari, apple juice concentrate, and water. Sweet, thinly sliced apples and caramelized onions add depth and a gentle fruity acidity, while optional ground pecans contribute a nutty richness. The result is a tender, flavorful dish with a glossy glaze that is perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or vegetarian gatherings. Its simple to prepare yet feels elegant enough for guests, offering a satisfying balance of savory umami and sweet fruit notes.Ingredients
Directions
-
Cut the uncooked seitan into four thin pieces, approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch thick, weighing about 2 ounces each.
-
Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Fry the seitan slices until lightly browned on both sides.
-
Add a little water to the skillet with the seitan, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
-
In the same skillet, saut the sliced onions and minced garlic in the sesame oil until soft and translucent, but not fully cooked.
-
Place the prepared seitan slices in an ovenproof baking dish.
-
Pour the tamari, apple juice concentrate, and water over the seitan in the dish.
-
Cover the seitan with the sauted onion and garlic mixture.
-
Sprinkle the ground pecans over the onions if using.
-
Arrange the thinly sliced apples in a fan shape over the onions.
-
Drizzle the mirin (or Calvados/sherry) over the apples.
-
Cover the dish tightly with a lid or aluminum foil.
-
Bake in a preheated oven at 300F (150C) for 2 hours.
-
Let stand for 10 minutes before serving hot.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 173.5kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 7.8g12%
- Saturated Fat 1.7g9%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 10.9mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 24.8g9%
- Dietary Fiber 4.2g17%
- Sugars 10.2g
- Protein 3.1g7%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
This recipe requires uncooked seitan. If you only have pre-cooked seitan available, you may skip the initial frying and simmering steps, but you may need to add a bit more water to the baking dish to ensure the seitan stays tender during the long bake.
The thinner you slice the seitan, the better it will absorb the flavors of the braising liquid.
Ground pecans add a nice texture and nutty flavor, but the dish is still delicious and more delicate without them. You can substitute walnuts or almonds if preferred.
For the liquid, Mirin provides a subtle sweetness, but Calvados (apple brandy) or dry Sherry will add a nice depth of flavor. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, stick with Mirin or extra apple juice.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven to prevent the seitan from drying out.
