Vegan Philly Cheesesteak

This easy Vegan Philly Cheesesteak is a delightful take on the classic sandwich, perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s loaded with a flavorful homemade meat alternative, sweet caramelized onions, and decadent vegan cheese, all wrapped up in a soft hoagie roll. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this sandwich is sure to impress with its rich taste and satisfying texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of seitan, caramelized onions, and melty vegan cheese creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy days.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add or omit veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms based on your preferences.
• Healthy Alternative: This dish provides a nutritious twist on the traditional cheesesteak, keeping it plant-based and full of flavor.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make extra seitan and veggies for quick sandwiches throughout the week without losing taste or texture.

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Tools and Preparation

To get started on your Vegan Philly Cheesesteak, you’ll need some essential tools that will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or pan
• Grill pan or another skillet
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Blender (for cheese)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or pan: Ideal for sautéing vegetables evenly while allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Blender: Essential for creating creamy vegan cheese that melts perfectly into your sandwich.
• Grill pan: Helps achieve that perfect toasted texture for your hoagie rolls.

Ingredients

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.

For the Seitan Filling

• 1 Batch ZardyPlants Beef Seitan (see note 1 for substitutions)
• ¼ Cup Reduced Sodium Soy Sauce (see note 2)

For the Vegetables

• 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 Vegan Cheese

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

How to Make Vegan Philly Cheesesteak

Step 1: Prepare the Seitan

1. If you are making my easy Instant Pot seitan recipe, I like to start the veggies and cheese while the pressure is releasing naturally from the pressure cooker (or if steaming on the stove top, during the last 10 minutes of the cooking process).

Step 2: Sauté Onions

1. Start onions cooking in a large pan over medium-high heat. To avoid sticking, add a splash of water to deglaze the pan as needed. If using oil, start with that instead.

Step 3: Add Peppers and Mushrooms

1. After onions become translucent, add bell peppers and mushrooms if desired. Cook them down for about 10 minutes.
2. Lower heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of reduced sodium soy sauce during cooking; expect moisture from mushrooms.

Step 4: Rest Your Seitan

1. Allow cooked seitan to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing—it enhances juiciness!

Step 5: Finish Cooking Vegetables

1. Continue cooking veggies on medium-low until they reach your preferred tenderness.

Step 6: Prepare Vegan Cheese

1. If you haven’t made my vegan provolone yet, blend up ingredients (omit onion powder; increase garlic powder) and cook in a small pot until stretchy.

Step 7: Toast Hoagie Rolls

1. Heat a grill pan over medium heat; add vegan butter once hot.
2. Grill cut sides of bread until golden brown.

Step 8: Slice Seitan

1. Once rested, slice seitan into quarter-inch thick pieces; cut those pieces in half lengthwise.

Step 9: Combine Ingredients

1. In the skillet with veggies over medium heat, toss in remaining soy sauce along with seitan pieces.

Step 10: Assemble Sandwiches

1. Layer seitan mixture onto toasted rolls with melted cheese—add more if desired—and enjoy!

Step 11: Store Leftovers

1. Only prepare as many sandwiches as you’d like at one time to maintain freshness.
2. Refrigerate leftover seitan and vegetables separately from cheese; both can last up to five days in sealed containers.

Enjoy your homemade Vegan Philly Cheesesteak—it’s sure to become a favorite!

How to Serve Vegan Philly Cheesesteak

Vegan Philly Cheesesteak is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you want a classic approach or something a bit different, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Classic Hoagie Style

• Serve the Vegan Philly Cheesesteak in a toasted hoagie roll for that traditional taste. This makes it easy to hold and enjoy.

With Fresh Greens

• Add a handful of fresh arugula or spinach inside the sandwich for a crunchy texture and added nutrition.

Dipped in Marinara

• Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. The tangy flavor complements the savory cheesesteak beautifully.

Topped with Avocado

• Spread some mashed avocado on your hoagie for creaminess and healthy fats. It elevates the sandwich to another level!

Side of Sweet Potato Fries

• Pair with crispy sweet potato fries for a delightful contrast between savory and sweet.

With Pickles or Jalapeños

• Offer pickles or jalapeños on the side for those who enjoy an extra kick of flavor and crunch.

How to Perfect Vegan Philly Cheesesteak

To achieve the best Vegan Philly Cheesesteak, consider these tips that will enhance its flavor and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables will bring vibrant flavors and better texture to your cheesesteak.
• Caramelize onions properly: Take your time with the onions; caramelizing them adds depth and sweetness to the overall dish.
• Experiment with mushrooms: Different types of mushrooms can add unique flavors. Try shiitake or portobello for a richer taste.
• Don’t rush the seitan: Allowing the seitan to rest after cooking enhances its juiciness and overall flavor.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Feel free to add more soy sauce or spices to suit your personal preference.
• Serve immediately: For the best experience, serve your sandwiches right after assembling them while everything is hot and fresh.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Philly Cheesesteak

Complete your meal with these delicious side dishes that pair wonderfully with Vegan Philly Cheesesteak.

1. Crispy French Fries
   A classic choice, crispy fries provide a satisfying crunch that complements the softness of the sandwich.

2. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw adds freshness and crunch, balancing out the rich flavors of the cheesesteak.

3. Roasted Veggies
   Seasonal roasted vegetables offer a nutritious side that pairs well with any sandwich.

4. Potato Salad
   Creamy potato salad is perfect for those who enjoy hearty sides along with their sandwiches.

5. Corn on the Cob
   Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings sweetness and fun to your dining experience.

6. Chips and Salsa
   Light and refreshing, chips with salsa make for a great appetizer before diving into your main dish.

7. Stuffed Peppers
   Stuffed bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa offer a colorful and nutritious addition to your meal.

8. Garden Salad
   A simple garden salad can lighten up the meal while providing additional vitamins from fresh veggies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Vegan Philly Cheesesteak from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not using enough seasoning: Seasoning is key! Without enough soy sauce or spices, your seitan and veggies could taste bland. Always taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
• Skipping the resting time for seitan: If you cut into your seitan immediately after cooking, it will lose moisture and flavor. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes to ensure juiciness.
• Overcooking the vegetables: While you want caramelization, overcooking can make veggies mushy. Cook them just until tender for the best texture.
• Using stale bread: Fresh hoagie rolls are crucial for a delightful bite. Ensure your bread is fresh to prevent sogginess and enhance the overall experience.
• Ignoring cheese melting techniques: For a truly cheesy experience, it’s important to melt your vegan cheese properly. Follow the instructions closely to achieve that gooey consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Vegan Philly Cheesesteak in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Freezing Vegan Philly Cheesesteak

• Wrap individual sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Vegan Philly Cheesesteak

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the sandwich in foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place the sandwich on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making a Vegan Philly Cheesesteak.

What is a Vegan Philly Cheesesteak?

A Vegan Philly Cheesesteak is a plant-based version of the traditional cheesesteak, made with seitan, sautéed onions, peppers, and vegan cheese on a hoagie roll.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! You can use gluten-free bread and substitute seitan with jackfruit or other vegetable-based alternatives.

How long does it take to make Vegan Philly Cheesesteak?

The entire process takes about 20 minutes if you prep ingredients ahead of time, making it an easy meal option.

Can I use different vegetables in my Vegan Philly Cheesesteak?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Philly Cheesesteak is not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various vegetables or cheeses based on personal preferences. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a comforting meal that satisfies all cravings!