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Middle Eastern Tofu Kebabs - Vegan

Middle Eastern Tofu Kebabs - Vegan

Flavorful, marinated tofu kebabs seasoned with traditional Middle Eastern spices, perfect for grilling or baking. A hearty and healthy vegan main course.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Entree, Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Middle Eastern
Calories: 310

Ingredients
  

For the Tofu & Marinade
  • 14 oz Extra-firm tofu Pressed and cubed into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/4 cup Olive oil
  • 1/4 cup Lemon juice Freshly squeezed
  • 2 cloves Garlic Minced
  • 2 tsp Smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp Ground cumin
  • 1 tsp Ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp Turmeric powder
  • 1/4 tsp Cayenne pepper Optional, for heat
  • 1 tsp Salt Or to taste
  • 1/2 tsp Black pepper
For Skewering
  • 1 large Red onion Cut into large chunks
  • 1 large Green bell pepper Cut into large chunks
  • 8 Cherry tomatoes

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Prepare the tofu: If you haven't already, press the extra-firm tofu for at least 30 minutes to remove excess water. Cut the pressed tofu into uniform 1-inch cubes.
  2. Whisk together the marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Whisk until thoroughly emulsified.
  3. Marinate the tofu: Add the tofu cubes to the marinade mixture. Gently toss to ensure all pieces are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor absorption.
  4. Assemble the kebabs: Thread the marinated tofu alternately with chunks of red onion, green bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes onto metal or pre-soaked wooden skewers.
  5. Cook the kebabs (Grill Method): Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). Lightly oil the grates. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, rotating until the tofu is nicely browned and the vegetables are tender-crisp (about 16-20 minutes total).
  6. Cook the kebabs (Oven/Broiler Method): Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the skewers on the sheet and bake for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
  7. Serve immediately, perhaps drizzled with extra lemon juice or served alongside hummus and pita bread.

Notes

For the best results, ensure your tofu is heavily pressed. If you do not have skewers, the marinated tofu and vegetables can be roasted together on a sheet pan. This recipe pairs excellently with a cooling cucumber-dill vegan tzatziki.
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