• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
This Healthy Kitchen
  • RECIPES
  • SPRING
  • SUBSCRIBE
  • JOIN/LOGIN
  • ACCOUNT
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
menu icon
go to homepage
  • RECIPES
  • SPRING
  • SUBSCRIBE
  • JOIN/LOGIN
  • ACCOUNT
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
  • subscribe
    search icon
    Homepage link
    • RECIPES
    • SPRING
    • SUBSCRIBE
    • JOIN/LOGIN
    • ACCOUNT
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
  • ×

    Home » Recipes » Mains

    Vegan Hot Dogs [Seitan Dogs]

    Published: Jun 17, 2021 by Rosa · This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases, meaning if you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you.

    901 shares
    JUMP TO RECIPE

    Meaty seitan dogs [AKA vegan hot dogs] are perfect for cookouts, warm weather, game day, or any day! They’re flavourful, simple to prepare, low in fat and FAR healthier than store bought.

    Vegan hot dogs in buns with mustard and relish on top.

    I’d call these the PERFECT choice for vegan Father’s Day food, but really, these are great all summer long (and all year long too).

    They’re fun, nostalgic, delicious and flavourful. Perfect for adults, and for kids. I mean, who doesn’t love a classic hot dog?

    The fact that these are FAR healthier is just an added bonus. In fact, I’d even argue that these taste WAY better than the hot dogs I ate as a kid.

    Seitan hot dogs in buns with mustard, relish and ketchup on cutting board.

    How to make them

    (This is a summary with step by step photos, full recipe measurements and instructions are in the recipe card below.)

    Gather your ingredients, but don’t be overwhelmed by the long list. Most of the ingredients needed are spices and seasoning for the most flavourful results!

    Ingredients to make vegan hot dogs in bowls on white deck.

    Decide which cooking method to use. I have instructions for both steaming or baking below. If using the oven method, preheat your oven.

    Now add your drained, rinsed and patted dry white beans to a mixing bowl and mash them with a fork or potato masher. They don’t need to be perfect, some chunkier pieces is A-Okay. (photo 1)

    Add all remaining WET ingredients to the same bowl and mix to combine. (photos 2-3)

    Then add ALL the dry ingredients on top and start mixing until mostly combined. (photos 4-6)

    Image collage of beans being mashed, then liquids and dry ingredients added and mixed into a ball of dough.

    Transfer your dough to a cutting board or clean work surface to knead for about 1-2 minutes. (photo 7)

    Then divide into 8 pieces and roll each one into a cylinder shape. (photos 8-9)

    NOTES: Don’t over knead your dough! Just until everything looks well combined and you can see the bands of gluten stretching through. Also, don’t worry about lumpy looking vegan sausages. They will get smooth as they cook, so don’t fuss with it much.

    Dough on cutting board separated into 8 chunks and then rolled out into logs.

    Wrap each of your seitan dogs in parchment paper and then aluminum foil and twist the ends as shown below. (photo 10)

    Now either bake or steam according to the directions in the recipe card below, and serve in hot dog buns with toppings of choice. (photo 11)

    OPTIONAL: To get the beautiful grill marks shown below, brush the seitan dogs with oil (if you’d like) and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Then grill them for 1-2 minutes.

    NOTE: The parchment paper is not necessary to the cooking results, but it helps prevent the aluminum foil from touching your food, if preferred.

    Vegan hot dogs wrapped in foil and then cooked product inside hot dog buns on cutting board.

    A classic hot dog gets topped with mustard, but go wild with any toppings you like.

    Hand holding up hot dog in bun with mustard on top in zig zag pattern.

    Common Questions

    Where can I buy vital wheat gluten?

    You will find it in health food stores or the health food section of your grocery store. You may also purchase on Amazon (affiliate link).

    Can I sub the vital wheat gluten?

    There is no sub for the vital wheat gluten, and its use is crucial to the outcome of these vegan hot dogs.

    Can I make these seitan dogs gluten free?

    Unfortunately not. As said above, vital wheat gluten is crucial to the texture and results of this vegan hot dog recipe and cannot be substituted.

    What are good vegan hot dog toppings?

    Mustard and relish are classic, but you may also choose ketchup, sriracha mayo, jalapeno slices, pickled onions, banana peppers, coleslaw or chili.

    Are vegan hot dogs healthy?

    I’d argue that this homemade version is moderately healthy. They’re minimally processed and contain no oil or animal fat, making them low in fat. Although vital wheat gluten is a processed ingredient, it’s quite nutritious too. It’s low in calories and fat, but high in protein. So compared to store bought hot dogs (vegan or otherwise) these are a FAR healthier choice.

    Storage + Reheating

    Store your cooked seitan dogs in a sealed container in your fridge for 4-5 days. Or freeze them for up to 3 months in a freezer safe, air tight container.

    If making ahead, skip the grilling until ready to eat, and use this grill time to add, not only the gorgeous grill lines but to reheat your sausages.

    You may also simmer fully cooked seitan dogs in a little broth on stove top to reheat. But do not reheat in the oven as this will dry them out.

    Steaming vs. Baking?

    I tried cooking these both ways and noticed no difference in flavour, as expected.

    The texture of the baked seitan dogs is slightly firmer on the outside and softer in the middle.

    The steamed dogs are softer throughout, more like a classic hot dog. If you want a little more bite, choose the baked method.

    How do I know they’re cooked?

    Gently peel back the foil, the seitan dogs should appear smooth. You may give it a poke with your finger or tongs to test firmness.

    They should feel firm but still give a little to pressure. They’ll firm up more as they cool.

    Expert Tips

    • For best accuracy, weigh your vital wheat gluten. If you do not have a kitchen scale, use 2 cups worth.
    • Make sure to mix your dough well for even flavour and best texture, but do not over knead. Kneading for 1-2 minutes is perfect.
    • Don’t spend too much time fussing over perfectly shaped hot dogs. They’ll be lumpy before cooking, but get nice and smooth while they cook.
    • If you don’t like having foil touch your food, use parchment paper in between the seitan dogs and aluminum foil layer.
    • For spicy vegan sausages, add 1 teaspoon of chili flakes to the mix.

    You might also like these!

    • vegan bacon bits in glass jar with pancakes in the background.
      How to Make Candied Bacon Pecans
    • vegan salami on cutting board with slices cut.
      Spicy Vegan Salami
    • Cutting board with fajitas in corn tortillas with avocado, cilantro and crema fresca garnish.
      Quick + Easy Jackfruit Fajitas
    • Vegan chicken burger in bun with onion, tomato, lettuce and mayo.
      Vegan Chicken Burgers [GF + Oil Free]

    If you tried this recipe, please let me know about it in the comments below. I always love hearing from you! Don’t forget to Subscribe to This Healthy Kitchen to be among the first to get my new recipes! You can also FOLLOW ME on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and Twitter to see more delicious food and get all the latest updates.

    Buon appetito

    Rosa

    Vegan hot dogs in buns with mustard and relish on top.

    Vegan Hot Dogs [Seitan Dogs]

    Seitan dogs are flavourful, easy to make and healthier than store bough! Perfect for cookouts!
    5 from 8 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe Rate Recipe Add to Collection Go to Collections
    Prep Time: 20 minutes
    Cook Time: 45 minutes
    Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
    Course: Main Course
    Cuisine: American, Canadian
    Servings: 8 Seitan Dogs
    Calories: 179kcal
    Author: Rosa

    Ingredients

    Wet Ingredients

    • 1 cup white cannellini beans drained, rinsed + patted dry
    • 1 cup low sodium vegetable broth
    • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
    • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
    • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
    • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

    Dry Ingredients

    • 270 grams vital wheat gluten approx. 2 cups
    • 3 teaspoons onion powder
    • 2.5 teaspoons garlic powder
    • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika or sweet
    • 1 teaspoon sea salt
    • ½ teaspoon poultry seasoning
    • ½ teaspoon ground coriander
    • ¼ teaspoon turmeric
    • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
    • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

    Optional Toppings

    • hot dog buns
    • mustard, ketchup, relish, jalapeno, chili, coleslaw
    US Customary – Metric
    Prevent your screen from going dark

    Instructions

    • Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (if using the oven method) and tear 8 pieces of aluminum foil (and parchment paper if you prefer your foil doesn't touch your food) and set aside.
    • Add the white beans to a mixing bowl and gently mash with a large fork or potato masher. (They don't need to be completely mashed, some chunkier pieces are fine.) Then add all remaining WET ingredients to the same bowl and mix well.
    • Now add ALL the dry ingredients and begin mixing until mostly combined into a ball of dough. Then transfer to a cutting board or clean work surface to knead for approx. 1 minute, until you have a well combined mixture, but don't over knead.
    • Divide into 8 pieces and roll each piece into a cylinder shape to make your vegan hot dogs. (Don't worry if it's lumpy, it will get smooth when you cook it.) Then wrap each of your seitan dogs with the parchment paper (if using) and the aluminum foil and twist the ends to secure them inside. (See process shots above for a visual.) Choose a cooking method below.

    Steaming Instructions

    • Bring a large pot with a couple inches of water to boil and place your steamer basket inside. Make sure the basket is not touching the water. Once boiling, reduce heat to maintain a low boil/simmer and place your seitan dogs inside. Cover with a lid and steam for 45-55 minutes, flipping them at the halfway point. Check on your water every so often and add hot water IF needed. Remove the hot dogs from the basket and let cool for 5 minutes before removing the foil.

    Baking Instructions

    • Place your wrapped seitan dogs on a tray and bake for 45 minutes, flipping at the halfway point. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes or so, before removing the foil.

    Instant Pot Instructions

    • Add 1.5 cups of water to the bottom of your Instant Pot. Then place the trivet inside the pot. Arrange your wrapped seitan dogs on the trivet, stacking them as needed. Then close the lid and make sure the valve is in the sealing position. Steam for 45 minutes and let your pot naturally release pressure until the pin drops. Remove once safe to do so.

    Optional Grilling

    • You may enjoy straight away once baked or steamed. OR, you may grill your seitan dogs for those beautiful grill lines. Brush your vegan hot dogs with oil (if you'd like) and sprinkle a little extra salt and pepper. Then grill for 1-2 minutes to enhance the flavours.
    • Serve with hot dog buns and all your favourite toppings. Enjoy!

    Notes

    For best accuracy, weigh your vital wheat gluten. If you do not have a kitchen scale, use 2 cups worth.
    Make sure to mix your dough well for even flavour and best texture, but do not over knead. Kneading for 1-2 minutes is perfect.
    Don’t spend too much time fussing over perfectly shaped hot dogs. They’ll be lumpy before cooking, but get nice and smooth while they cook.
    If you don’t like having foil touch your food, use parchment paper in between the seitan dogs and aluminum foil layer.
    For spicy vegan sausages, add 1 teaspoon of chili flakes to the mix.
    To make ahead: Fully prep + cook your dogs 1-2 days in advance using the method of choice (steam or bake) and then grill just before serving.
    Leftovers keep refrigerated for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

    How do I know they’re cooked?

    Gently peel back the foil, the hot dogs should appear smooth. You may give it a poke with your finger or tongs to test firmness. They should feel firm but still give a little to pressure. They’ll firm up more as they cool.

      Nutrition

      Calories: 179kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 1g | Sodium: 761mg | Potassium: 241mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 310IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 80mg | Iron: 3mg
      DID YOU TRY THIS RECIPE?Mention @this.healthy.kitchen on IG and tag #thishealthykitchen!
      *Nutritional information is an estimate, calculated using online tools and does not include optional ingredients unless otherwise indicated.
      901 shares

      Reader Interactions

      Comments

        Leave a Comment & Star Rating Cancel reply

        Your feedback is greatly appreciated! Please do us a favour and rate the recipe in addition to commenting as this is very helpful to us and other readers. Tell us about substitutions you made, how it turned out, and anything helpful to others who may make the recipe. Rude or insulting comments are not accepted. Your email address will not be published.

        Recipe Rating




        This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

      1. Edith

        October 27, 2021 at 9:39 am

        5 stars
        Hi Rosa, I just made these in the Instant Pot, they are amazing!! I wanted to test in advance for Halloween day for my kids. Did you know that Pilsbury crescent is accidentally vegan? I’m using your hot dog recipe to make mummy dogs!!! I’m so excited and thank you so much.

        Reply
        • Rosa

          October 27, 2021 at 10:58 am

          Ohh that’s so exciting! Love this idea! Thank you so much sharing that with us, and so glad you like the seitan dogs. 😀

          Reply
      2. Victoria Robersohn

        October 06, 2021 at 3:07 pm

        i’m sure these sausages/hotdogs are delicious (based on the ingredients), but how close to real hotdogs would you say they are? Specifically, i was wondering about the cumin because i don’t recall that flavor in any hotdog i’ve eaten. Thanks!

        Reply
        • Rosa

          October 07, 2021 at 9:49 am

          Hi Victoria. Although I haven’t had a hot dog in many years, I’d say the flavour and texture are very close. You won’t really taste the cumin, it’s a small amount and just adds to the meaty flavour. Hope that helps. 🙂

          Reply
      3. Jess

        June 22, 2021 at 2:55 pm

        5 stars
        Steamed these the other day and refrigerated. Hubby just grilled a couple for us for lunch today and they are fabulous! Thank you! Can’t wait to grill the rest tomorrow. Love them.

        Reply
        • Rosa

          June 23, 2021 at 8:25 am

          YAY! Thrilled you enjoyed these Jess. 🙂

          Reply

      Primary Sidebar

      About Me Pic

      Hi, I'm Rosa! Welcome to This Healthy Kitchen where you'll find tasty and nutritious, plant-based recipes. I'm an avid home cook who believes food is medicine. Each recipe is made using wholesome ingredients, and under 400 calories per serving with several gluten-free and oil-free options! Occasional cheat days included. 😉

      More about me →

      Popular

      • Roasted pineapple slices on white plate.
        Air Fryer Pineapple (Tastes Like Grilled)
      • close up of cooked spaghetti squash sliced in half with parmesan cheese and parsley garnish on top.
        Air Fryer Spaghetti Squash [Healthy+Low Cal]
      • Tray of buffalo cauliflower bites with bowl of ranch dip in the middle.
        Vegan Cauliflower Buffalo Wings – Oven or Air Fryer
      • plate with large hash browns and fruit scattered around the dish
        Air Fryer Hash Browns From Scratch [Oil Free Option]
      • White bowl filled with cooked chickpeas and blue towel beside it.
        Instant Pot Chickpeas No Soak!
      • stack of vegan pancakes with banana slices on top and syrup dripping down.
        The Fluffiest Vegan Pancakes Ever [and SO easy!]

      list of websites where This Healthy Kitchen has been featured

      Spring is in the air!

      • Risotto with asparagus in round bowl with lemon on the side.
        Asparagus Lemon Risotto [Instant Pot or Stove Top]
      • Lemon pie with lemon slices and blueberries on top.
        Healthier Vegan Lemon Pie [Oil Free]
      • Green dip in glass jar with raw veggies surrounding it.
        Avocado Green Goddess Dressing [Oil Free]
      • Baked zucchini tater tots in white, oval serving dish.
        Baked Zucchini Tater Tots [Oil Free]
      • Cast iron pan with rotini pasta, cherry tomatoes and spinach in a white sauce.
        Easy Tofu Pasta Sauce [Oil Free]
      • Roasted potatoes in white tray with lemon wedges and parsley garnish.
        Roasted Greek Lemon Potatoes

      Privacy Policy
      Terms & Conditions

      5 SECRETS TO VEGAN COOKING!

      Footer

      ↑ back to top

      About

      • Privacy Policy
      • Disclaimers
      • Terms & Conditions

      Newsletter

      • Sign Up! for emails and updates

      Contact

      • Contact

      As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on our site are affiliate links. If you purchase using these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. We only promote products we use and love. Thanks for your support!

      Copyright © 2023 ThisHealthyKitchen

      901 shares