Seitan takes a spicy turn

A treasure from Asia, seitan typically offers center-of-the-plate protein in vegetarian meals. The name, from the Japanese words for "ideal protein," was apparently coined by George Ohsawa, whose work and vision led to the macrobiotic movement in the 1960s. The chewy food is also called wheat meat, mock duck and crazy chicken.

By Kay Stepkin, Special to Tribune Newspapers

January 2, 2013