| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 320 | 25g | 3.5g | 7g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 2g | 1g | 23g | 1.5g |
Why I Love Italian Involtini di Seitan con Salsa di Soia
There is something incredibly comforting about the Involtini di Seitan con Salsa di Soia. This dish takes inspiration from traditional Italian flavors but blends them with the umami richness of soy sauce, elevating it into a fusion masterpiece. My love for this recipe lies not just in its taste but also in its versatility and the way it brings together some of my favorite culinary traditions.
A Fusion of Flavors and Traditions
Being a native of Portland, Maine, I grew up appreciating the simplicity and freshness of New England seafood. However, my culinary journey has always been about exploring new horizons, and this recipe is a testament to that. Involtini di Seitan con Salsa di Soia celebrates the Italian tradition of involtini (small rolled bundles) but replaces the meat with seitan, making it a delightful vegetarian option.
The combination of extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, fresh rosemary, and large basil leaves creates a depth of flavor that is both familiar and novel. It’s somewhat reminiscent of a traditional braciola, where meat is rolled with herbs and cheese and then slow-cooked. Here, the seitan takes on the roles, absorbing all those savory notes perfectly.
A Versatile Dish for Various Occasions
One of the reasons I adore this recipe is its versatility. It can be served as a main course for a family dinner, paired wonderfully with a side of herbed polenta or a fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette. These combinations make it a balanced meal that’s both hearty and refreshing.
Another option is to serve it as an appetizer at a dinner party, where the Involtini di Seitan con Salsa di Soia can be an exciting prelude to a meal, setting a sophisticated yet approachable tone. The use of toothpicks to secure the rolls makes it an easy finger food option that guests can effortlessly enjoy.
While developing this recipe, I was partly inspired by Chef Yotam Ottolenghi’s approach to vegetarian cooking. His ability to create complex flavors using plant-based ingredients is remarkable and motivated me to experiment with ingredients like seitan and soy sauce in a traditionally Italian setting. If you enjoy fusion cuisine, Ottolenghi’s work is definitely worth exploring.
In conclusion, the Involtini di Seitan con Salsa di Soia is more than just a recipe; it’s a bridge between culinary worlds, a celebration of flavors that are close to my heart yet excitingly new. Whether you’re a lover of Italian cuisine or looking to try something unique, this dish offers an incredible dining experience.
What You’ll Need
- 18 ounces of seitan (thinly sliced)
- 6 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon of fresh rosemary (chopped)
- 6 large basil leaves
- 1/2 cup of vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toothpicks (to secure involtini)
“`
Method
Step One
Begin by preparing the marinade. In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, extra virgin olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, and chopped rosemary.
Step Two
Lay the thinly sliced seitan on a flat surface. Place a basil leaf on each slice of seitan.
Step Three
Roll the seitan slices tightly around the basil leaves, creating small rolls (involtini). Use toothpicks to secure the rolls in place.
Step Four
Place the seitan involtini in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Make sure the rolls are evenly coated. Cover the dish and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Step Five
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the marinated seitan involtini to a baking dish. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste, and pour any remaining marinade over the top.
Step Six
In a small saucepan, heat the vegetable broth over medium heat. Slowly whisk in the all-purpose flour until well combined and slightly thickened to create a sauce.
Step Seven
Pour the sauce over the seitan involtini and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the seitan is heated through and slightly crispy on the edges.
Step Eight
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Remove the toothpicks from the involtini. Serve warm, drizzling with extra sauce from the baking dish if desired. Enjoy your Involtini di Seitan con Salsa di Soia!
