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Middle Eastern Vegan Tofu Kebabs with Fresh Herbs and Spices Recipe

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4.1 from 173 reviews

These Middle Eastern Tofu Kebabs are a flavorful vegan and gluten-free dish, packed with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and sumac. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these kebabs are perfect served with rice, pitta bread, fresh salad, and your favorite dips like hummus or tahini sauce. They offer a delicious plant-based alternative to traditional kebabs, full of vibrant Middle Eastern flavors.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: Makes approximately 12 mini kebabs

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 450g firm tofu, prepared according to pack instructions
  • 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1 1/2 tsp coriander
  • 1 tsp sumac
  • 1 tsp dried mint
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp chilli powder
  • 1/2-1 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 3 tbsp tomato puree
  • 65g plain flour or chickpea flour
  • 15g fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 15g fresh coriander, finely chopped
  • Oil for frying (neutral oil like vegetable or sunflower oil)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the tofu mixture: Break up the tofu into small pieces into a large bowl. Add the finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, sumac, dried mint, turmeric, chilli powder, salt, black pepper, tomato puree, flour, fresh parsley, and fresh coriander.
  2. Mix and mash: Using your hand, mash all the ingredients together until the mixture holds together well and can be shaped without falling apart.
  3. Shape the kebabs: Shape the mixture into small kebabs or round patties in the palm of your hand. Making them small (around 12 mini kebabs) helps them hold together better.
  4. Fry the kebabs: Heat a little neutral oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the kebabs for about a minute or so on each side until all sides are beautifully browned and crispy.
  5. Serve: Serve your Middle Eastern tofu kebabs hot with rice, pitta bread, salad, and dips like hummus or tahini sauce.

Notes

  • You can bake the kebabs in a preheated oven at 180°C (160°C fan) for 25-30 minutes as a healthier alternative, but frying enhances their flavor and texture best.
  • Ensure the tofu is well drained and pressed to remove excess moisture before starting.
  • Use chickpea flour to keep the recipe gluten-free; otherwise, plain flour works well for binding.
  • Adjust the salt and chili powder to your taste preference.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days; reheat in a pan for best texture.
  • Author: Adeline
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern
  • Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free