Lemon-Caper Seitan with Olives and Crisp Green Beans

1. Preheat Skillet and Prepare Seitan

First, preheat a large heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. While the skillet is heating, cut the seitan into slices about 1/4 inch thick, 3 inches long, and 2 inches across. Dredge each slice in all-purpose flour, ensuring they are evenly coated.

2. Cook Seitan

Add enough olive oil to the preheated skillet to coat the bottom, then carefully place the seitan slices in the hot oil. Cook the seitan for about 2 minutes on each side, until they achieve a beautiful golden-brown crust. This browning not only creates a savory crust but also enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Once cooked, transfer the seitan to a plate and cover it with aluminum foil to keep it warm.

3. Boil Water for Green Beans

In a separate pot, bring water to a boil for the green beans.

4. Sauté Shallots and Garlic

Meanwhile, if needed, add a little more olive oil to the skillet and sauté the thinly sliced shallots and chopped garlic for about 5 minutes, until they become fragrant and tender.

5. Reduce Wine

Next, pour in the dry white wine and increase the heat to high. Let the wine boil and reduce for 7 to 10 minutes, until most of the liquid has evaporated. This reduction concentrates the flavors and adds depth to the dish.

6. Add Broth and Seasonings

Add the vegetable broth, salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a small pinch of dried thyme to the skillet. Stir well to combine the ingredients. Incorporate the capers with a little brine and the halved olives, allowing them to heat through for about 3 minutes.

7. Cook Green Beans

While the sauce is coming together, cook the green beans in the boiling water for 2 minutes, just until they are crisp-tender. Strain the green beans and set them aside.

8. Finish Sauce

To finish the sauce, turn off the heat and add the freshly chopped parsley and the juice of one lemon, stirring to combine.

9. Serve and Enjoy

For serving, place a generous portion of mashed potatoes on each plate, followed by the warm seitan slices. Arrange the crisp green beans alongside, and generously spoon the lemon-caper sauce over the seitan. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious and vibrant meal!