Mock Chicken Legs: A Delicious and Healthy Vegan Option

If you're a vegan or vegetarian, you know how hard it can be to find a protein source that not only tastes good but also provides the necessary nutrients. Enter mock chicken legs, a vegan alternative to the classic fried chicken.

What are Mock Chicken Legs?

Mock chicken legs, also known as seitan chicken, are made from wheat gluten which is combined with various spices, herbs, and flavorings to create a chewy texture that resembles chicken meat. They have a neutral taste, which makes them perfect for marinades and seasonings.

How to Prepare Mock Chicken Legs?

There are different ways to prepare mock chicken legs. The most common method is to use store-bought seitan chicken. You can marinate them for a few hours with your favorite seasonings, coat them in breadcrumbs, and then pan-fry them in oil until they are crispy and evenly browned.

However, if you prefer to make your seitan chicken from scratch, it's relatively easy, and you'll have more control over the flavor and texture.

To make vegan mock chicken legs from scratch, here's a simple recipe to follow:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups vital wheat gluten
  • 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
  • 2 tablespoons garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth or water
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the wheat gluten, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, and salt.
  2. Mix the vegetable broth or water, soy sauce, and tomato paste in a separate bowl and then add it to the dry ingredients.
  3. Mix until it forms a sticky dough. Knead the dough for five minutes until it becomes elastic.
  4. Divide the dough into 8 to 10 pieces.
  5. Shape each piece into a leg-shaped roll and place it in a large steamer.
  6. Steam the mock chicken legs for around 40 minutes.
  7. Once steamed, let the legs cool down a bit before frying them or baking them.

Health Benefits of Mock Chicken Legs

Mock chicken legs are a great source of protein, essential amino acids, and vital nutrients such as selenium and iron. Moreover, they are low in fat, carbohydrates, and calories, making them ideal for those who are watching their weight or are on a calorie-restricted diet.

Furthermore, mock chicken legs are a versatile ingredient that you can incorporate into many dishes. You can serve them as a main dish with some side dishes, or you can add them to soups, salads, and sandwiches.

Conclusion

Whether you're a vegan or simply trying to diversify your protein sources, mock chicken legs are worth trying. With their chewy texture, neutral taste, and versatility, they can be a healthy and delicious substitute for chicken meat. So why not give them a shot? Your taste buds and your body will thank you.