Vegan Tofu Shawarma
The Vegan Tofu Shawarma is a plant-based twist on the classic Middle Eastern street food favorite. Marinated tofu is cooked to crispy perfection and paired with a flavorful tahini sauce, fresh vegetables, and herbs, all wrapped in warm whole wheat or pita bread.
INGREDIENTS
For the Tofu Marinade:
- 1 block (14 ounces) extra-firm tofu, pressed and sliced into thin strips or cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A pinch of cayenne pepper (adjust to your desired level of spiciness)
For the Tahini Sauce:
- 1/2 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons water (or more for desired consistency)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Shawarma Wrap:
- 4 large whole wheat or pita bread rounds
- 1 cup shredded lettuce or cabbage
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup diced cucumbers
- 1/4 cup diced red onions
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- Vegan yogurt or vegan tzatziki sauce (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
For the Tofu Marinade:
In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground paprika, ground coriander, ground turmeric, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Place the sliced or cubed tofu in a shallow dish, and pour the marinade over it. Gently toss to ensure the tofu is well coated.
Allow the tofu to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or longer if possible, in the refrigerator. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be.
For the Tahini Sauce:
In a bowl, combine the tahini, lemon juice, water, minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, and pepper.
Whisk until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more water if needed. Set aside.
To Cook the Tofu:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil.
Add the marinated tofu to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until it becomes crispy and browned.
Remove the tofu from the skillet and set it aside.
To Assemble the Shawarma Wrap:
Warm the whole wheat or pita bread rounds in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds.
Spread a generous spoonful of the tahini sauce onto each bread round.
Add a layer of shredded lettuce or cabbage on top of the sauce.
Place the cooked tofu strips or cubes on the lettuce.
Sprinkle diced tomatoes, diced cucumbers, diced red onions, and chopped fresh parsley or cilantro over the tofu.
Drizzle more tahini sauce on top, and if desired, add a dollop of vegan yogurt or tzatziki sauce.
Fold the bread round in half, and it’s ready to serve.
TIPS
- Customize your shawarma wrap with your favorite vegetables and herbs. Sliced bell peppers, olives, or pickles are great additions.
- Add a squeeze of extra lemon juice or a drizzle of hot sauce for added flavor.
- If you have a grill or grill pan, you can grill the tofu for a smoky flavor.
- Serve the shawarma wrap with a side of couscous, rice, or tabbouleh for a complete meal.
NUTRITION VALUE
- Calories: 350-400 (approximate values)
- Protein: 15-18g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Dietary Fiber: 5-7g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in protein, calcium, iron, and various B vitamins.
