Vegan Philly Cheesesteak

This easy Vegan Philly Cheesesteak is incredibly delicious and makes a fun lunch or dinner to share—or not! Packed with a realistic but healthy homemade meat alternative, caramelized onions, and smothered in homemade melty, gooey vegan cheese in a hoagie roll, this is a truly satisfying vegan sandwich recipe that everyone will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a total cook time of only 20 minutes, this Vegan Philly Cheesesteak is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Filling: The combination of seitan, sautéed veggies, and creamy vegan cheese offers a satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. This recipe is versatile!
• Healthy Alternative: Enjoy all the classic cheesesteak flavors without any animal products, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual lunch or a party dish, these sandwiches are sure to impress friends and family alike.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make making your Vegan Philly Cheesesteak easier. Here’s what you need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or pan
• Instant Pot (optional)
• Blender (for cheese)
• Grill pan or another skillet
• Hoagie rolls

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or pan: Ideal for sautéing onions and other veggies evenly while imparting flavor.
• Blender: Perfect for creating smooth, creamy vegan cheese. A must-have for this recipe!
• Grill pan or another skillet: Ensures your hoagie rolls get that perfect golden-brown crust.

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Ingredients

For the Seitan

• 1 Batch ZardyPlants Beef Seitan (see note 1 for substitutions)

For the Vegetables

• ¼ Cup Reduced Sodium Soy Sauce (see note 2)
• 2 Medium White Onions, sliced in ¼-inch thick half moons
• 2 Green Bell Peppers, optional
• 16 Ounces White Button Mushrooms, optional (or any mushrooms, or omit)

For the Cheese

• 1 Batch 6-minute ZardyPlants Vegan Provolone (see note 3)

How to Make Vegan Philly Cheesesteak

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. If you’re making seitan from scratch using an Instant Pot, prepare the veggies and cheese while it cooks.

Step 2: Sauté Onions

In a large skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Add sliced onions.
2. If cooking without oil, splash some water to prevent sticking. If using oil, start with a splash of olive oil.
3. Cook until onions become translucent.

Step 3: Add Peppers and Mushrooms

If using:
1. After onions are translucent, add sliced green bell peppers and mushrooms.
2. Cook for about 10 minutes while stirring occasionally.
3. Add 2 tablespoons of reduced sodium soy sauce during this process.

Step 4: Rest the Seitan

Once your seitan is done:
1. Allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This enhances its juiciness!

Step 5: Complete the Veggies

Continue cooking the veggie mixture if desired over medium-low heat until satisfied with their tenderness.

Step 6: Prepare the Vegan Cheese

If you haven’t made the vegan provolone yet:
1. Blend its ingredients (omit onion powder; increase garlic powder).
2. Cook in a small pot for a few minutes until stretchy.

Step 7: Toast Hoagie Rolls

Heat a grill pan or large skillet over medium heat:
1. Add vegan butter until melted.
2. Grill cut sides of hoagie rolls until golden brown.

Step 8: Slice the Seitan

After resting:
1. Slice seitan into quarter-inch thick pieces.
2. Cut those pieces in half lengthwise.

Step 9: Combine Ingredients

In the skillet with veggies over medium heat:
1. Add seitan slices along with remaining soy sauce or liquid aminos.
2. Stir well to combine all flavors.

Step 10: Build Your Sandwiches

To assemble:
1. Scoop some seitan and veggie mix into toasted rolls.
2. Top with melted vegan cheese or slices as desired.
3. Add more filling as needed before attempting to close your sandwich.

Step 11: Storage Tips

Only prepare as many sandwiches as you’d like to eat:
– Cool leftovers to room temperature and refrigerate separately for up to five days.
– Leftover seitan can be frozen for up to three months in an airtight container.

Enjoy your delicious Vegan Philly Cheesesteak!

How to Serve Vegan Philly Cheesesteak

Vegan Philly Cheesesteak is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a casual meal at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.

Classic Hoagie Style

• Serve the Vegan Philly Cheesesteak in a toasted hoagie roll for the traditional sandwich experience. This classic presentation is perfect for lunch or dinner.

With Fresh Side Salad

• Pair your cheesesteak with a fresh garden salad. The crisp veggies and light dressing will balance the richness of the sandwich.

On a Platter

• Create a fun platter with cut-up cheesesteaks and assorted dipping sauces. This makes for an excellent appetizer at parties or get-togethers.

With Sweet Potato Fries

• Serve alongside crispy sweet potato fries for a delicious and healthy side. The sweetness complements the savory flavors of the cheesesteak beautifully.

Topped with Avocado

• Add slices of avocado on top of your cheesesteak for extra creaminess and healthy fats. This addition elevates both taste and nutrition.

How to Perfect Vegan Philly Cheesesteak

Making the ultimate Vegan Philly Cheesesteak involves attention to detail and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to ensure your sandwich is extraordinary.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality seitan to enhance flavor and texture.
• Caramelize Onions Well: Take your time to caramelize onions until they are golden brown; this adds depth and sweetness to the dish.
• Don’t Rush the Cheese: Allow your vegan cheese to melt properly before assembling the sandwich; this creates that gooey, satisfying texture.
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach based on your preference.
• Toast Your Bread: Toasting the bread not only adds crunch but also helps prevent sogginess from the filling.
• Experiment with Sauces: Try different sauces like vegan mayo or spicy mustard for an extra flavor kick.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Philly Cheesesteak

Complementing your Vegan Philly Cheesesteak with delicious sides can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Crispy French Fries
   Classic fries seasoned with salt make a perfect accompaniment, offering a satisfying crunch.

2. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw brings freshness and crunch, balancing the richness of the cheesesteak nicely.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition, enhancing your plate visually and flavor-wise.

4. Potato Wedges
   Oven-baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side that’s easy to prepare.

5. Chickpea Salad
   A refreshing chickpea salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette adds protein and complements the sandwich well.

6. Stuffed Peppers
   Colorful bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice offer a nutritious option that’s both filling and flavorful.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Vegan Philly Cheesesteak, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the resting time: Not allowing the seitan to rest after cooking can lead to a drier texture. Resting for 10 minutes helps it retain moisture.
• Overcooking the veggies: Cooking the vegetables too long can make them mushy. Aim for a tender yet crisp texture by monitoring cooking times carefully.
• Using low-quality bread: The hoagie roll is crucial for a great sandwich experience. Choose fresh, high-quality rolls to enhance flavor and texture.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season properly can make your Vegan Philly Cheesesteak bland. Use reduced sodium soy sauce and other spices to boost flavor.
• Forgetting about the cheese: Skipping the homemade vegan cheese will leave your sandwich lacking creaminess. Make sure to include it for that classic cheesesteak taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 5 days.
• Keep seitan and veggies separate from the cheese for optimal freshness.

Freezing Vegan Philly Cheesesteak

• Freeze leftover seitan in a freezer-safe airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Consider freezing cheese separately if you have any leftovers.

Reheating Vegan Philly Cheesesteak

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat sandwiches wrapped in foil for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place sandwich on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a touch of water, and cover until warmed through, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Vegan Philly Cheesesteak?

A Vegan Philly Cheesesteak is a plant-based version of the classic sandwich, typically made with seitan or other meat alternatives, sautéed vegetables, and vegan cheese.

Can I make this Vegan Philly Cheesesteak gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute seitan with jackfruit or mushrooms as a base for your filling. Just ensure that your hoagie rolls are gluten-free.

How do I customize my Vegan Philly Cheesesteak?

You can add different vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or even jalapeños. Feel free to experiment with various seasonings or sauces too!

What type of mushrooms work best in this recipe?

While white button mushrooms are commonly used, shiitake or portobello mushrooms add depth of flavor and can enhance the overall taste of your Vegan Philly Cheesesteak.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This Vegan Philly Cheesesteak can be prepped ahead of time. Just store components separately as outlined in the storage section.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Philly Cheesesteak is not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize it with different vegetables or sauces to suit your taste preferences. Try this recipe today for an enjoyable lunch or dinner everyone will love!