In a large pan heated to medium-high heat add 1/2 tbsp butter; and saute the onion and garlic until soft. Add in fennel and cumin seeds and cook till spices are toasted.
In a food processor, add the chickpeas, onion-garlic mix, tomato paste, thyme, paprika, salt, soy sauce, and sparkling water. Pulse until sauce like, then add vital wheat gluten and pulse again until mixture forms a ball.
Add a steamer basket to a large pot and fill with a couple of inches of water. Bring to a boil.
Divide the mix into equal parts and roll them out till about 1/2 inch thick. . Add the "steaks" to the steamer basket and let them steam for about 22 minutes, flipping them half way though.
Heat a grill pan to high heat that has been brushed with the remaining butter. Grill the "steaks" for 1 to 2 minutes on each side to get some beautiful grill marks. Enjoy!
Notes
Serves well with Roasted potatoes, or steamed vegetables.
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Some amino acids levels are estimated, some product manufacturers do not supply amino acid values. The value source usda.gov.