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Vegan Smoked Deli Slices Recipe

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4.1 from 15 reviews

This Vegan Smoked Deli Slices recipe offers a flavorful, plant-based alternative to traditional deli meats using firm tofu and vital wheat gluten. The tofu and a blend of seasonings are combined and kneaded into a dough, then steamed to create smoky, savory slices perfect for sandwiches or snacking. These slices are naturally vegan, protein-rich, and make a great addition to any lunch or charcuterie platter.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Yield: 2 logs, approximately 2 servings each (4 servings total)

Ingredients

Vegan Smoked Deli Slices Ingredients

  • 7 ounces firm tofu
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 tbsp oil
  • 1 tbsp white vinegar
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tsp liquid smoke
  • 1/2 tsp red food coloring
  • 1 medium shallot (roughly chopped)
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 cup vital wheat gluten

Instructions

  1. Blend into a cream: Add the tofu, water, oil, white vinegar, soy sauce, liquid smoke, red food coloring, chopped shallot, sugar, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to a blender. Blend on high speed for 30-50 seconds until the mixture is smooth and resembles a thick cream.
  2. Combine with the gluten: Transfer the blended tofu cream to a stand mixer bowl. Add the vital wheat gluten to the mixture.
  3. Knead: Using the paddle attachment, knead the mixture on medium speed for 5-7 minutes. The dough will initially be wet but will firm up and form a stretchy dough as you knead. Alternatively, knead by hand if you do not have a stand mixer.
  4. Wrap it: Divide the dough into two equal balls. Shape each ball into a log approximately 4.5 inches (11.5 cm) long. Wrap each log tightly first in parchment paper, then in one layer of aluminum foil, followed by a second layer of aluminum foil to prevent expansion while steaming.
  5. Arrange a steamer: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Place a steamer basket (bamboo or stainless steel) over the pot.
  6. Steam: Place the wrapped dough logs inside the steamer basket and cover with a lid. Steam for 1 hour and 30 minutes, checking the water level every 30-40 minutes to ensure at least 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) of water remains in the pot. Add more boiling water as needed.
  7. Let cool completely: Remove the steamed logs from the steamer and allow them to cool at room temperature for at least 1 hour before unwrapping. Then wrap each loaf tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate.
  8. Slice: After resting for a minimum of 6 hours in the refrigerator, slice the seitan logs into thin deli-style slices or dice into chunks as desired.
  9. Store: Keep the vegan smoked deli slices refrigerated for up to 7 days for best freshness.

Notes

  • Make sure to check water levels during steaming to prevent drying out or burning the bottom of the pot.
  • The red food coloring is optional, used only to achieve a more traditional smoked meat appearance.
  • You can customize the seasoning by adding smoked paprika or garlic powder for extra smokiness.
  • These slices can be enjoyed cold in sandwiches or pan-fried for a crispy texture.
  • Freezing the cooked slices is possible; thaw in refrigerator before using.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Steaming
  • Cuisine: Vegan, American
  • Diet: Vegan

Find it online: https://recipeteach.com/vegan-smoked-deli-slices-recipe/