Soak TVP, covered in boiling water and set aside for about 10 minutes.
Meanwhile, stir together all the dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl from Flour through Salt.
Dissolve liquid smoke in the 1/2 cup water and stir.
When TVP is soft, add this to the bowl with dry ingredients. I use a slotted spoon to do this, reserving the remaining water in the bowl.
Add liquid smoke to the mixture.
Start with a spoon to incorporate all ingredients, then use your hands until no dry flour can be seen. Mix lightly, as you still want some of the TVP to resemble sausage. You will see strands of gluten start to form.
If mixture seems dry, add a bit of the reserved TVP soaking water. If it seems too wet, add more Vital Wheat Gluten Flour.
Cover with a towel and let rest 5 minutes.
You have the option of either frying the patties, or baking.To Bake: Form into desired size patties, and bake at 350 degrees about 15 mts. until browned. I use a non-stick silpat liner. You can flip once, but it's optional. To Fry: Heat up a non-stick pan, and fry on both sides until browned. Using oil to fry is optional if you use a non-stick pan. Enjoy! I hope you enjoy these as much as my family does! <3
Tip when forming patties: If you lightly dampen your hands with water, they will be easier to form and will stick to your hands less.