Name: Vegan Beef Strips with Soy Curl Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Vegan American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups soy curls; 2 teaspoons Better Than Bouillon, vegetable base; ¾ cup warm water; 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce; 1 ½ tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 1 teaspoon steak seasoning; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; Pinch black pepper; 1 teaspoon olive oil; 2 teaspoons maple syrup

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 12 reviews

If you are craving a hearty, flavorful plant-based dish that satisfies just like the real deal, you are going to fall in love with this Vegan Beef Strips with Soy Curl Recipe. These strips deliver all the meaty texture and bold taste you want from a beef substitute, thanks to the magic of soy curls soaked in a savory marinade bursting with soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, and seasonings. Ready in about 25 minutes, this recipe is a perfect go-to for a quick, protein-packed dinner that’ll impress vegans and omnivores alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a square clear glass container filled with layered strips of light brown textured food soaked in a reddish-orange liquid. The pieces are unevenly shaped and stacked loosely, covering the bottom and rising in soft curls and folds. The background is a white marbled surface that brightens the colors and contrasts with the warm tones of the food and liquid. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this dish lies in the simplicity of the ingredients. Each one is carefully chosen to enhance the soy curls, turning them from bland to irresistible with layers of umami, sweetness, and a touch of tang. Here’s what you’ll need to make this dish shine:

Soy curls: The star of the recipe, these rehydrate into wonderfully chewy, beef-like strips.
Better Than Bouillon, vegetable base: Adds depth and savory richness to the marinade.
Warm water: Helps rehydrate the soy curls and blend the marinade flavors.
Low sodium soy sauce: Provides salty umami without overpowering.
Balsamic vinegar: Gives a slight tang and a caramelized sweetness that balances the dish.
Steak seasoning: Brings a smoky, peppery kick reminiscent of real steak flavor.
Onion powder: Offers gentle sweetness and depth.
Garlic powder: Infuses subtle, aromatic pungency.
Black pepper: Adds a mild heat and earthiness.
Olive oil: Helps with cooking, adding richness and a smooth mouthfeel.
Maple syrup: A touch of natural sweetness that complements the balsamic nicely.

How to Make Vegan Beef Strips with Soy Curl Recipe

Step 1: Rehydrate the Soy Curls

Start by combining warm water, the vegetable bouillon, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, and all seasonings in a bowl. Whisk everything together until well mixed. Then add the soy curls and let them soak for 15 minutes. This step is essential because it plumps up the soy curls, making them soft and ready to absorb the delicious marinade flavors.

Step 2: Simmer the Soy Curls

Pour the entire contents of the bowl—the soy curls and marinade—into a medium-sized pan. Place it over medium heat and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the liquid evaporates. This simmering process helps the soy curls start to caramelize and concentrate the marinade flavors, setting up the perfect foundation for the finishing touches.

Step 3: Finish with Oil and Maple Syrup

Once the liquid is mostly gone, add in the olive oil and maple syrup. Continue cooking for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally. This final step creates a luscious, slightly sticky coating that mimics the savory-sweet glaze you’d expect from beef strips in a restaurant. At this point, give your creation a taste and feel free to add a splash more balsamic or garlic powder as you prefer. Finish with a sprinkle of black pepper or dried parsley to make it look as good as it tastes!

How to Serve Vegan Beef Strips with Soy Curl Recipe

A white plate filled with two main layers: on the left and center, there is a pile of brown cooked strips of meat with a slightly crispy texture, sprinkled lightly with green herbs; on the right side, there are golden brown roasted potato pieces with a rough texture. A silver fork holds up a piece of the brown meat above the plate. The plate sits on a wooden surface with a white marbled background and a blue-and-white checkered cloth partially visible at the bottom right and blurred items in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple but impactful garnishes can elevate your dish instantly. Try fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for a pop of green freshness. A squeeze of lemon or lime can brighten the flavors and add a zesty contrast to the rich soy curls. If you like a bit of spice, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle a bit of smoky chipotle sauce on top.

Side Dishes

These vegan beef strips are versatile and pair beautifully with myriad sides. Serve them over fluffy steamed rice, nestled in a warm tortilla for tacos, or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Mashed potatoes or creamy polenta also complement the texture and richness of the strips wonderfully, while a crisp side salad adds balance and freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be shy about getting creative! These vegan beef strips can star in sandwiches or wraps with your favorite hummus or vegan mayo. Toss them into grain bowls with avocado, salsa, and nuts for a nutritious lunch. You can even use them as a protein-packed taco or fajita filling, bringing a plant-based twist to classic favorites. The chewy texture and savory flavor open up endless possibilities.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your meal, simply transfer leftover vegan beef strips to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or dinner on busy days.

Freezing

If you want to keep these vegan beef strips on hand longer, freezing works like a charm. Portion them into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. Frozen soybean protein can last up to 3 months and still taste delicious when thawed.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the strips in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or vegetable broth to keep them moist. Alternatively, microwave them covered for a minute or two, stirring halfway through. Avoid overcooking to retain their chewy texture and flavor punch.

FAQs

Are soy curls gluten-free?

Yes, soy curls are naturally gluten-free since they are made from whole soybeans. However, always check the packaging to ensure no cross-contamination if you have celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity.

Can I use a different vinegar instead of balsamic?

Absolutely! While balsamic adds a sweet tang, you can swap in apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar for slightly different flavor profiles. Just keep the quantity the same to maintain balance.

How do soy curls compare to tofu or seitan?

Soy curls have a chewier texture reminiscent of real meat and soak up marinades wonderfully. Tofu is softer, and seitan has a denser wheat-based texture. Soy curls are an excellent choice for mimicking beef strips specifically.

Is this recipe high in protein?

Yes! Soy curls are packed with plant-based protein, making this recipe a nutritious and satisfying option for anyone looking to increase their protein intake without animal products.

Can I add vegetables directly to the dish?

Definitely! Bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms cooked with the soy curls add extra flavor, color, and nutrients. Add them after the initial simmer to allow even cooking and maintain their texture.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Beef Strips with Soy Curl Recipe truly feels like a little miracle in a pan. It’s quick, straightforward, and loaded with flavor that brings comfort and indulgence without compromising your plant-based values. Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, give this recipe a whirl—you might just find your new favorite dinner staple that everyone will ask for again and again.

Vegan Beef Strips with Soy Curl Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need