Vegan Schnitzel Recipe

Welcome to our vegan schnitzel recipe! If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying plant-based alternative to traditional schnitzel, you’ve come to the right place. Our recipe combines simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions to create a flavorful and crispy dish that anyone can enjoy. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based options into your diet, this vegan schnitzel recipe is sure to impress.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of making vegan schnitzel from scratch. We’ll also explore the history of this classic German dish and provide tips and variations to suit your dietary preferences. Plus, as a bonus, we’ll share a delicious recipe for vegan mulled wine that pairs perfectly with your schnitzel.

Key Takeaways:

• This vegan schnitzel recipe uses 14 ingredients and can be made easily for any holiday or dinner.
• The recipe features a simple seitan and breading method, making it a great plant-based protein option.
• This vegan schnitzel recipe is dairy-free and nut-free, suitable for those with dietary restrictions or allergies.
• The step-by-step instructions and variations provided allow you to customize the recipe to your preferences.
• For soy-free options, alternatives such as seitan, mushrooms, eggplant, or cauliflower can be used as the base.

Traditional German Dish

Schnitzel is a classic German dish that is traditionally made with meat, but this vegan version replaces the meat with seitan. Vegan schnitzel is a great option for those following a plant-based diet or looking for delicious vegan meal ideas. The recipe stays true to the flavors and textures of traditional schnitzel while using plant-based ingredients.

If you’re craving the taste and experience of a traditional German dish but want to avoid meat, then vegan schnitzel is the perfect choice. Made with seitan, this plant-based version captures the essence of schnitzel while providing a compassionate and sustainable alternative.

Seitan, a protein-rich meat substitute made from wheat gluten, is the star of this dish. It is marinated, breaded, and fried to crispy perfection, closely mimicking the texture and taste of traditional schnitzel. Whether you are a vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking to try something new, this German-inspired dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.

By swapping out the meat for seitan, this recipe removes the ethical and environmental concerns associated with traditional schnitzel. It allows you to enjoy a beloved German dish while embracing a more sustainable and compassionate lifestyle.

“Vegan schnitzel is a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of traditional German cuisine while making a conscious choice to support a plant-based diet.”

To further delight your taste buds, vegan schnitzel can be accompanied by traditional German side dishes such as sauerkraut, red cabbage, or potato salad. Pair it with a refreshing German beer or a glass of riesling to complete your authentic German dining experience. Whether you’re German by heritage or simply appreciate the cuisine, this vegan version of a classic dish is sure to impress.

Next, we’ll explore how to make vegan schnitzel from scratch, including a step-by-step guide and a list of essential kitchen equipment. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that combines the best of traditional German cuisine with the principles of plant-based living.

Dairy-Free & Nut-Free Option

This vegan schnitzel recipe is a flavorful and satisfying alternative to traditional schnitzel, and it’s perfect for those with dietary restrictions or allergies. Not only is it dairy-free and nut-free, but it also uses seitan as a meat substitute. So if you’re looking to enjoy a delicious schnitzel without dairy or nuts, this recipe is for you!

Seitan, made from vital wheat gluten, is the star ingredient in this recipe. It provides a meaty texture and absorbs flavors beautifully. By using seitan instead of meat, you can enjoy the taste and texture of schnitzel while staying true to your dietary needs.

Unlike traditional schnitzel recipes that often use dairy products in the breading or nut-based coatings, this vegan version keeps things simple and clean. You won’t find any dairy or nuts in the ingredient list, making it suitable for anyone with lactose intolerance, milk allergies, or nut allergies.

To create the deliciously crispy and golden coating, this dairy-free and nut-free schnitzel recipe uses a combination of all-purpose flour, egg replacer, unsweetened soy milk, and breadcrumbs. These ingredients work together to create a crunchy exterior that perfectly complements the tender seitan inside.

This dairy-free and nut-free schnitzel recipe is a testament to the versatility and creativity of plant-based cooking. By using alternative ingredients, you can still enjoy your favorite dishes while accommodating your dietary needs and preferences.

How to Make Vegan Schnitzel from Scratch

Making vegan schnitzel from scratch is easier than it may seem. The recipe starts by combining vital wheat gluten, nutritional yeast, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and poultry seasoning to create the seitan mixture. The seitan is then shaped into cutlets and baked in a casserole dish with vegetable broth. After baking, the cutlets are coated in a breadcrumb mixture and fried until golden brown.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make vegan schnitzel:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of vital wheat gluten, 2 tablespoons of nutritional yeast, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of poultry seasoning.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of no-chicken vegetable broth and 2 tablespoons of tahini.
3. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for a few minutes to develop the gluten. If using a stand mixer, you can use the dough hook attachment for easier kneading.
5. Shape the dough into 4 cutlets or desired size and place them in a casserole dish.
6. Pour enough vegetable broth into the dish to cover the cutlets.
7. Cover the dish with a lid or foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
8. While the cutlets are baking, prepare the breadcrumb mixture. In a shallow dish, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
9. In another shallow dish, pour 1 cup of unsweetened soy milk.
10. Once the cutlets are baked, remove them from the casserole dish and let them cool slightly.
11. Dip each cutlet into the flour mixture, then into the soy milk, and back into the flour mixture to coat them evenly.
12. In a deep fryer or deep pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
13. Fry the breaded cutlets in the hot oil for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
14. Remove the schnitzels from the oil using tongs and place them on a wire cooling rack or a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
15. Serve the vegan schnitzel hot with lemon wedges, fresh parsley, and your favorite side dishes.

Check out the table below for a summary of the ingredients and cooking steps:

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make delicious vegan schnitzel, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools and equipment. Having these items on hand will ensure that you can prepare and cook your schnitzel recipe with ease. Here’s a list of the equipment you’ll need:

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Stand mixer (optional)
• Measuring utensils
• Rolling pin
• Deep casserole dish with a lid or foil
• Tongs
• Wire cooling rack
• Rimmed baking sheet
• Deep fryer or deep pot for frying

These kitchen essentials will help you create the perfect vegan schnitzel every time. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, having the right equipment will make the cooking process much smoother and enjoyable.

Having the necessary kitchen tools and equipment ensures that you’re prepared to tackle the vegan schnitzel recipe with confidence. Now that you have everything you need, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions for creating this delectable plant-based dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Vegan Schnitzel

Follow these easy, step-by-step instructions to create delicious vegan schnitzel. From preparing the seitan mixture to coating the cutlets and frying them to perfection, this recipe will guide you through the entire process.

Ingredients:

• Vital wheat gluten
• Nutritional yeast
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Poultry seasoning
• No-chicken vegetable broth
• Tahini
• Oil
• All-purpose flour
• Black pepper
• Egg replacer
• Unsweetened soy milk
• Breadcrumbs

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine vital wheat gluten, nutritional yeast, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and poultry seasoning. Mix well.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together no-chicken vegetable broth and tahini until smooth.
4. Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and stir until combined.
5. Transfer the dough onto a flat surface and knead for 3-5 minutes until it becomes elastic.
6. Divide the dough into equal-sized pieces and shape them into thin cutlets.
7. Place the cutlets in a casserole dish and pour enough vegetable broth to cover them.
8. Cover the dish with a lid or foil and bake for 30 minutes.
9. While the cutlets are baking, prepare the breadcrumb mixture by combining all-purpose flour, black pepper, and breadcrumbs.
10. Remove the cutlets from the oven and let them cool slightly.
11. Dip each cutlet in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
12. In a deep fryer or pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
13. Fry the cutlets in batches until they turn golden brown and crispy on both sides.
14. Use tongs to carefully remove the schnitzels from the oil and place them on a wire cooling rack or a paper towel to remove any excess oil.
15. Serve the vegan schnitzels with lemon and parsley, gravy, German spaetzle noodles, roasted veggies, or a fresh green salad.

Related Recipe: Vegan Mulled Wine

As a bonus, the article includes a related recipe for vegan mulled wine. This warm and festive drink is perfect for the holiday season and complements the flavors of the vegan schnitzel. The recipe uses a combination of spices, red wine, and citrus fruits to create a delicious and comforting beverage.

Prepare a batch of vegan mulled wine to enjoy with your vegan schnitzel. The aromatic blend of spices and the rich flavors of the red wine will elevate your dining experience. Sip on this delightful drink and savor the holiday spirit.

“Mulled wine is the perfect holiday drink that warms both your body and soul. The combination of cinnamon, cloves, and orange infuses the wine with a cozy and festive aroma.”

Here’s a simple recipe to make your own vegan mulled wine:

• Ingredients:
• 1 bottle of red wine
• 2 cups of apple cider or apple juice
• 1/4 cup of maple syrup or sweetener of choice
• 1 orange, sliced
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 6 whole cloves
• 3 star anise
• Optional garnish: orange slices and cinnamon sticks
• Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, apple cider or apple juice, maple syrup or sweetener, orange slices, lemon slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Do not let it boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let the mulled wine steep for about 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. After steeping, strain the mulled wine to remove the spices and fruit slices.
5. Serve the vegan mulled wine warm in heatproof glasses or mugs. You can garnish each glass with an orange slice and a cinnamon stick, if desired.

Sit back, relax, and enjoy the cozy and inviting aroma of this vegan mulled wine. Raise a glass to the holiday season and the delightful pairing of vegan schnitzel and mulled wine.

Recipe Variation with Celeriac as the Base

The article provides a recipe variation using celeriac as the base for vegan schnitzel. Celeriac slices are used instead of traditional meat or meat substitutes, offering a tender texture and a subtle, savory flavor. The recipe can be customized with different bases such as tofu, seitan, aubergine/eggplant, mushrooms, or cauliflower.

When it comes to vegan schnitzel, there are endless possibilities for creating delicious and satisfying plant-based alternatives. One creative variation is using celeriac as the base, which adds a unique twist to the traditional recipe. Celeriac, also known as celery root, has a mild, earthy flavor and a creamy texture when cooked. It pairs perfectly with the crispy coating of the schnitzel, creating a harmonious combination of flavors and textures.

To make the celeriac schnitzel, start by peeling and slicing the celeriac into thick rounds. You can then follow the same process of coating the slices in batter and breadcrumbs, and frying them until golden brown. The end result is a flavorful and satisfying vegan schnitzel that will impress both vegans and non-vegans alike.

Here is a step-by-step guide for making celeriac schnitzel:

1. Peel the celeriac root and slice it into thick rounds.
2. In a mixing bowl, prepare the batter by combining flour, plant-based milk, and your choice of spices and seasonings. Mix until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, place breadcrumbs seasoned with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices.
4. Dip each celeriac slice into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated.
5. Transfer the coated slice to the breadcrumb mixture and press firmly to ensure an even coating.
6. Repeat the batter and breadcrumb process for each celeriac slice.
7. In a frying pan, heat oil over medium heat. Fry each celeriac slice until golden brown on both sides.
8. Remove the schnitzel from the pan and place it on a wire cooling rack to drain excess oil.
9. Serve the celeriac schnitzel hot with a squeeze of lemon juice, a side of vegan gravy, and your favorite accompaniments.

This celeriac-based vegan schnitzel variation offers a delightful alternative to traditional meat-based schnitzel. It highlights the versatility of plant-based ingredients and provides a unique and satisfying dining experience. Whether you’re a vegan looking to try something new or simply want to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, celeriac schnitzel is a fantastic choice.

Tips and Variations for Vegan Schnitzel

Creating the perfect vegan schnitzel involves finesse and creativity. Here are some tips and variations to help you elevate your vegan schnitzel game:

Tips:

1. Make your own breadcrumbs: Opt for homemade breadcrumbs to add a fresh and flavorful touch to your schnitzel. Simply toast some bread slices, process them in a food processor, and voila!
2. Experiment with different bases: While seitan is the traditional choice for vegan schnitzel, feel free to explore other options like tofu, eggplant, mushrooms, or cauliflower. Each base offers a unique texture and taste that can enhance your dish.
3. Adjust frying temperature: Take note of the oil temperature when frying your schnitzel. Too low of a temperature can result in a greasy texture, while too high can lead to burnt coating. Aim for a golden brown and crispy exterior.
4. Get creative with serving: Vegan schnitzel pairs well with a variety of side dishes and condiments. Consider serving it with lemon wedges, parsley garnish, German potato salad, creamy mushroom sauce, or spicy vegan mayo.

Variations:

Give your vegan schnitzel a twist with these flavorful variations:

1. Gluten-Free Option: For those with gluten sensitivities, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs in the recipe. This ensures everyone can enjoy this delicious dish without compromising their dietary restrictions.
2. Add spices or herbs: Elevate the taste of your schnitzel by incorporating different spices or herbs into the breadcrumb mixture. Try adding paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or a sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs like rosemary or thyme for a burst of flavor.

Vegan Schnitzel Tips and Variations

Soy-Free Substitutes

For those who cannot consume tofu or prefer soy-free options, there are various substitutes available for vegan schnitzel. These alternatives provide delicious alternatives while ensuring a soy-free experience without compromising on taste or texture.

Here are some soy-free substitutes to consider:

1. Seitan: Also known as wheat meat, seitan is a popular choice for those following a soy-free diet. Made from vital wheat gluten, seitan has a meaty texture that works well in vegan schnitzel recipes.
2. Mushrooms: Portobello mushrooms or other meaty mushrooms can be used as a flavorful base for vegan schnitzel. They offer a robust and earthy taste that pairs well with the breading and frying process.
3. Eggplant: Sliced eggplant can be a delicious soy-free alternative for vegan schnitzel. The eggplant’s tender texture absorbs flavors well and becomes crispy when coated in batter and breadcrumbs.
4. Cauliflower: Another versatile option is cauliflower, which can be sliced into thick steaks or florets for schnitzel. Cauliflower provides a mild and slightly sweet taste and becomes delightfully crispy when breaded and fried.
5. Soy-free tofu: Lentil-based or chickpea-based tofu is another excellent soy-free substitute. Made from legumes or seeds, these tofu alternatives offer comparable texture and taste for vegan schnitzel.
6. Other legumes and seeds: There are a variety of legumes and seeds that can be used as a base for vegan schnitzel, such as chickpeas, lentils, quinoa, or hemp seeds. These alternatives provide a nutritious and flavorful option for those looking to avoid soy.

Regardless of the base used, the cooking process for vegan schnitzel remains the same. The base is coated in a batter, breaded with breadcrumbs, and then either fried until golden brown or baked until crispy. This results in a satisfying and delicious soy-free option for vegan schnitzel enthusiasts.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this vegan schnitzel recipe offers a delightful and satisfying plant-based alternative to traditional schnitzel. By combining just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful and crispy dish that will please both vegans and vegetarians. Whether you are looking to reduce your meat consumption or simply want to try something new, this vegan schnitzel recipe is a must-try.

With easy-to-follow instructions, anyone can recreate the flavors and textures of the classic German schnitzel using plant-based ingredients. The seitan-based cutlets, coated in a savory breadcrumb mixture, provide a deliciously crunchy bite that rivals the traditional meat version. From the first bite to the last, you’ll be amazed at how satisfying and authentic this vegan schnitzel tastes.

So, why not add a plant-based twist to your mealtime? Whether you serve it with a squeeze of lemon, alongside a hearty salad, or with German spaetzle noodles and gravy, this vegan schnitzel is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the crunch and flavor of this plant-based delight at your next meal!