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July 26, 2026Sources cited
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Seitan

Seitan is a food made primarily from wheat gluten, the main protein in wheat, and is commonly used as a meat substitute.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Seitan is a food made primarily from wheat gluten, the main protein in wheat, and is commonly used as a meat substitute. It has a chewy texture and absorbs seasonings well, making it popular in vegetarian and vegan cooking. The term is a relatively modern Japanese coinage, while gluten-based meat substitutes have older roots in East Asian cuisine.

Etymology

The word "seitan" is a modern Japanese neologism that became widely used outside Asia in the 20th century. Older related terms include miànjīn and wheat gluten.

Composition and preparation

Seitan is produced from wheat gluten, sometimes by washing starch out of wheat dough or by using vital wheat gluten. It is then seasoned and cooked in forms such as steaming, boiling, baking, or simmering.

Culinary use

Seitan is used as a meat analogue because it can resemble the texture of meat and take on surrounding flavours. It appears in dishes such as slices, strips, cutlets, sausages, and stir-fries.

Dietary considerations

Seitan is plant-based and suitable for vegan diets, but it contains gluten. That makes it unsuitable for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Key facts

  • Seitan is made from gluten, the main protein found in wheat.
  • It is valued for a chewy, meat-like texture after cooking.
  • The name "seitan" is a modern Japanese term, not an ancient one.
  • Gluten-based foods have long been used in Chinese, Japanese, and related cuisines.
  • It is not appropriate for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
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Canadian context

Seitan is widely available in Canadian grocery stores, restaurants, and plant-based product lines, reflecting the growth of vegan and vegetarian diets in Canada.

Frequently asked questions

What is seitan made from?
Seitan is made mainly from wheat gluten, the protein that gives wheat dough its elasticity.
Is seitan vegan?
Yes. Seitan is plant-based and does not contain animal products.
Does seitan contain gluten?
Yes. Gluten is its main ingredient, so it is not gluten-free.
Why is seitan used as a meat substitute?
Its chewy texture and ability to absorb flavour make it useful in dishes designed to resemble meat.
Where does the word seitan come from?
The term comes from Japanese and was popularized in the 20th century.
Is seitan safe for people with celiac disease?
No. Because it is made from wheat gluten, it should be avoided by people with celiac disease.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seitan
    Supports: General description of seitan, alternative names, culinary use, and historical context.
  2. Dictionary.com — https://www.dictionary.com/browse/seitan
    Supports: Definition as a chewy, protein-rich food made of wheat gluten used as a meat substitute.
  3. Merriam-Webster — https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/seitan
    Supports: Definition of seitan as flavored wheat gluten used as a meat analogue.
  4. Cambridge Dictionary — https://dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/seitan
    Supports: Definition as a high-protein food made from wheat used instead of meat.
  5. BBC Good Food — https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/glossary/seitan-glossary
    Supports: Preparation, historical use in Asian cuisine, and description as wheat gluten.
  6. Wheaty — https://www.wheaty.de/mission/seitan-tradition/
    Supports: Modern use of the term and its Japanese origin in the 20th century.