Where to Buy Seitan in South Africa (Update)
Are you on the hunt for a seitan in South Africa? You’re not alone!
Recent studies show that demand for plant-based proteins in South Africa has soared by 1,000% since 2016.
This trend has increased the popularity of seitan. This sustainable meat alternative appeals to health-conscious consumers. It is high in protein and has many essential nutrients.
Intrigued?
Ready to discover the secret behind Seitan’s rising popularity?
Join us as we explore this versatile ingredient. We’ll show you where to find it and how to prepare it. This will help you create your delicious seitan dishes.
This guide is for seasoned vegans and curious newcomers.
It will explore the best places to buy seitan in South Africa and make it accessible to everyone, from city markets to your home.
Let’s dive in and discover where you can get this versatile protein!
What is Seitan?
Let’s talk about seitan, the new kid on the block taking South African kitchens by storm.
Firstly – what on earth is this stuff?
Well, imagine a food that looks like meat and cooks like meat but is entirely plant-based. That’s seitan for you!
It’s made from wheat gluten, a chewy, stretchy part of wheat dough. When cooked, this isolated gluten becomes a meaty, rich protein. It’s perfect for stir-fries, sandwiches, and more.
Let me tell you, it’s a protein powerhouse!
Seitan contains an impressive 75 grams of protein per 100 grams, which outshines chicken. The best part? It’s low in fat and carbohydrates, making it a top choice for health-conscious people.
But that’s not all. Seitan’s versatility is unmatched, making it ideal for various dishes.
Want to try it?
You can find seitan pre-made in many health food stores and online. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can make it yourself at home. It’s simple once you get the hang of it.
But wait.
Besides protein, what nutritional values does the seitan have?
Nutrition content can vary among brands and homemade seitan preparations.
The USDA gives nutritional data for a 28-gram serving of vital wheat gluten. Vital wheat gluten is the main ingredient in seitan. They list:
- Calories: 104
- Fat: 0.5 grams
- Total carbs: 4 grams
- Fiber: 0.2 grams
- Protein: 21 grams
- Selenium: 16% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Iron: 8% of the DV
- Phosphorus: 7% of the DV
- Calcium: 4% of the DV
- Copper: 3% of the DV
Here is the kicker:
Variations in seitan nutritional data occur in premade and cooked seta.
But be sure you get 71% of proteins and 2% of carbohydrates when eating seitan.
So, stick around whether you’re a longtime vegan or just seitan curious.
We are about to reveal where you can buy this fantastic food all over South Africa. You are in for a delicious surprise!
But where can you get this marvellous meat?
Where to Buy Seitan in South Africa
Okay, so you’re hooked on seitan and wondering where to find it in South Africa.
Fear not, my plant-based friend! I’ve been on a similar journey and am here to share my tips.
Now
When hunting, look for packaging that screams “wheat protein” or “plant-based meat alternative.” Some brands use creative names like “wheat steak” and “vegan schnitzel.” Don’t let that throw you off the scent!
Now, let’s talk rands and cents. Seitan usually costs about R30-R60 per 250g, depending on the brand and store.
It may seem pricey compared to some meats. But this stuff is protein-packed and super filling. Plus, you’re investing in your health and the planet. Win-win, right?
So, grab your reusable shopping bags and hit those health food aisles. Your perfect seitan match is waiting for you!
And hey, while you’re there, why not chat with the staff? They often have excellent tips on how to cook this stuff. Happy hunting!
I’m sure by now you want the places where to buy this versatile seitan.
Online Marketplaces: Convenient Seitan Shopping
If you don’t want to change out of your comfy PJs to go seitan-hunting, I’ve got fantastic news for you. The internet has your back!
Welcome to the beautiful world of online seitan shopping in South Africa.
It’s like having a vegan butcher at your fingertips. But it needs the actual butchering.
Let’s dive into the virtual aisles, shall we?
First stop: Faithful to Nature. This online eco-warrior stocks a variety of seitan products.
Next, check out Wellness Warehouse’s online store. They’ve been rapidly expanding their vegan range. It’s faster than you can say “plant-based protein.”
For a personal touch, visit The Vegan Goods Co. or Herbivore Earthfoods’ websites.
Visit online retailers like Tabu Food, Spice Journey, Gourmet Vegan Foods, and Vegan Street. They offer a variety of seitan brands and products.
Tabu Food offers 280 g. Seitan for R59.00
Let’s look at some Spice Journey products. They have seitan chicken pops for R60 and my favourite seitan lamb roast for R300.
These online shops deliver straight to your door.
Don’t you love the convenience of not having to leave the house?
Local Health Food Stores: Your Go-To Seitan Spots
Local health food stores are goldmines for plant-based goodies. Seitan is no exception.
Let’s explore where you can bag some of this wheat meat wonder!
First up, we’ve got the big players. Wellness Warehouse, Dischem, and Clicks are upping their vegan game. Many branches now stock seitan.
Look for brands like Urban Vegan or Herbivore Earthfoods. These guys usually hide in the refrigerated section, looking relaxed and plant-based.
But don’t stop there!
Independent health stores are the unsung heroes of the seitan world. These little gems often have a more diverse range and might even stock locally made seitan. In Cape Town, check out Organic Zone or Ethical Co-op. Joburg folks, swing by Jackson’s Real Food Market or Fruits & Roots.
Speciality Vegan Shops in Major South African Cities
What a delicious way to try new things, folks!
Many vegan and vegetarian restaurants use seitan in their dishes. This is an excellent opportunity to try seitan in new ways and may inspire your cooking.
But wait
Let’s take a whistle-stop tour of the vegan hotspots in our major cities. Grab your reusable shopping bags – we’re going on an adventure!
Cape Town, you beautiful Mother City, leading the pack in the vegan revolution! Go straight to Vegan Goods Market in Woodstock. It’s like Disneyland for plant-based food enthusiasts. Seitan? They’ve got it in spades! While in the area, swing by Nude Foods for some package-free seitan goodness. And don’t miss out on Earthfort Organics in Gardens – they’re small, but their seitan game is strong!
Joburg, you concrete jungle, you’re just a little behind! Visit Fresh Earth Food Store in Emmarentia. Their seitan will make your heart sing. Leafy Greens Cafe in Muldersdrift serves up mean seitan dishes and sells some to take home. And for all you Sandton folks, The Fry Family Food Co. concept store is a must-visit. It’s seitan central!
Durban, oh Durban! Your vegan scene is heating up faster than a Bunny Chow. Check out Earthmother Organic in Glenwood. They might be small, but their seitan selection packs a punch. Also, watch for updates from The Vegan Chef in Umhlanga. They’re expanding their plant-based menu.
Pretoria, the Jacaranda city – remember you! Wellness Warehouse in Menlyn, Maine, is stepping up its seitan game. For a more intimate shopping experience, visit Thyme & Rosemary in Equestria. They’re passionate about all things plant-based.
Remember, these vegan shops are more than just places to buy food – they’re communities. Chat with the staff, swap recipes with fellow shoppers, and soak in the plant-based vibes. Who knows? You might make some new vegan friends along the way!
Farmer’s Markets and Food Festivals
Check out your local farmers’ market for seitan. It’s a more direct and community-based option.
If lucky, homemade seitan might be found at farmers’ markets or food festivals. It’s a great way to support local businesses and discover hidden gems.
Asian Grocery Stores
Seitan has roots in Asian cuisine. So, many Asian grocery stores in South Africa sell seitan products.
These stores often have a wide selection of seitan brands and flavours. This wide selection makes them excellent options for experimenting with different seitan recipes. (I urge you to experiment!)
In South Africa, popular Asian grocery stores are China Mall, Oriental City, and Pan-Asian Supermarket.
Always remember that the best place to buy seitan might vary depending on where you live in South Africa. You can discover a source that fits your needs and preferences by researching.
Make Your Seitan: DIY Options for South Africa
Okay, you’re feeling adventurous and want to make your seitan. It’s simple. And the joy of creating your plant-based protein is worth it!
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Vital wheat gluten
- Water
- Vegetable broth
- Soy sauce
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
Instructions:
- Combine the ingredients: mix the vital wheat gluten, water, vegetable broth, soy sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Knead the dough: Work it for a few minutes until it is smooth and stretchy.
- Steam or simmer: Place the dough in a steamer basket or vegetable broth until cooked through.
- Cool and enjoy: Let the seitan cool before using it in your favourite recipes.
You can customize the flavour of your seitan by adding different herbs and spices to the dough. Experiment and have fun!
Making your seitan lets you pick the ingredients and customize it. Give it a try and see what you think!
But fair warning: making seitan can get a bit messy. Your kitchen might look like it’s been hit by a flour bomb. And your first attempt might look Fake. But don’t worry – even weird-looking seitan usually tastes excellent!
Seitan Recipes and Ideas: A Flavourful Adventure
Seitan is incredibly versatile, so the possibilities for recipes are endless! Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Stir-fries: Seitan is an excellent substitute for meat in stir-fries. Pair it with your favourite vegetables, sauce, and rice or noodles.
Nuggets: Craving a crispy treat? Try making seitan nuggets. Cover them with breadcrumbs and then fry or bake them until golden brown.
Steaks: Seitan can also be used to make “steaks.” Grill or pan-fry to your desired doneness and serve with your favourite sides.
Ground meat substitutes: Crumble-cooked seitan to replace ground meat in meatballs, burgers, and tacos.
Seitan absorbs the flavour of its cooking ingredients. So, experiment with different herbs, spices, and sauces to find your favourite combinations.
Have fun exploring the world of seitan!
Restaurants and Cafe’s Dishes
Sometimes, you want someone else to do the cooking.
Well, good news – South Africa’s restaurant scene is catching the seitan wave, and boy, are we here for it!
Let’s chat where you can chow down on some delicious seitan dishes when you’re out.
First up, let’s talk vegan-friendly eateries.
In Cape Town, you’ve got to check out Lekker Vegan. Their seitan “ga’terie” burger is the stuff of legends!
Joburg folks, swing by The Greenside Cafe for some mind-blowing seitan steaks. And Durbanites, don’t miss Oh My Soul in Umhlanga. Their seitan “chicken” dishes will challenge your views on food.
Now, how do you spot a seitan on a menu? It’s like a delicious treasure hunt!
Look for terms like “wheat protein” and “plant-based meat,” or sometimes they’ll call it seitan. Dishes like “vegan schnitzel,” “meatless meatballs,” or “plant-based steak” are often seitan in disguise.
But here’s the accurate pro tip: don’t limit yourself to vegan restaurants. More and more mainstream eateries are jumping on the plant-based bandwagon. Nando’s has a “Great Pretender” burger that’s seitan-based.
Even some steakhouses are getting in on the action. Hussar Grill will, on request, serve an excellent seitan steak.
Speaking of requests – don’t be shy to ask! Ask your server if the restaurant has veggie options but no seitan dishes. Chefs are often happy to whip up a seitan special if they have it in the kitchen. It never hurts to ask.
And here’s a fun challenge for you: next time you’re out with friends, why not suggest everyone try a seitan dish? It’s a great way to introduce your carnivore buddies to the wonders of plant-based eating.
Who knows? You might convert a few!
Remember, eating out isn’t just about the food—it’s about the experience. So soak in the atmosphere, enjoy the company, and appreciate that you are part of a growing movement. Every seitan dish ordered is a vote for more plant-based options in the future.
So, there you have it, hungry adventurers! Your guide to scouring South Africa’s restaurant scene for seitan. Now get out there and eat your way through some wheat meat wonders. Your taste buds will thank you!
FAQ: Seitan in South Africa
Q: Is seitan suitable for people with gluten sensitivity?
A: Unfortunately, no. Seitan is made from wheat gluten, so people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity must avoid it.
Q: Where can I find a seitan in rural areas?
A: While seitan might be less common in rural areas, you can still find it online or at selected health food stores. It’s also worth checking local farmers’ markets or food co-ops.
Q: What is the shelf life of seitan products?
A: The shelf life of seitan products can vary depending on the brand and packaging. Generally, pre-packaged seitan can last for several weeks when stored in the refrigerator. If you make your seitan, you can store it in the fridge for a few days or freeze it longer.
Q: Can I use seitan in traditional South African dishes?
A: Absolutely! Seitan can be a great addition to many South African dishes. Try using it in curries, stews, or braai (barbecue) recipes.
Q: Are there any vegan seitan options available?
A: Yes, most seitan products are vegan. However, it’s always a good idea to check the ingredient list. It ensures no animal-derived ingredients are present.
Do you have any other questions about seitan? Feel free to ask!
Conclusion
There you have it, fellow seitan enthusiasts!
Seitan is now more accessible than ever in South Africa.
From Cape Town to Johannesburg, you now have options to satisfy your seitan cravings.
The plant-based movement is growing fast in South Africa. So, don’t hesitate to ask for a seitan at your favourite stores or restaurants. What you find might surprise you!
So go ahead, explore these options, and enjoy seitan’s delicious, protein-packed goodness. The planet will be grateful!