Here’s a flavorful vegetarian shawarma recipe that you can easily prepare at home. This version features roasted vegetables and chickpeas, seasoned with traditional shawarma spices, and served with a delicious tahini sauce.
Ingredients
For the Shawarma
- Chickpeas: 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
- Cauliflower: 1 medium head, cut into bite-sized florets (about 5-6 cups)
- Sweet Potato: 1 medium, diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- Red Bell Pepper: 1, chopped
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Shawarma Spice Mix:
- 2 tablespoons cumin
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional: cayenne pepper for heat
For the Tahini Sauce
- Tahini: 1/4 cup
- Garlic Cloves: 2, minced
- Lemon Juice: Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- Water: 1/2 to 3/4 cup (to achieve desired consistency)
- Salt: to taste
For Serving
- Pita Bread or Flatbreads
- Fresh Vegetables: Lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, pickled onions
Instructions
Prepare the Shawarma
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Mix Shawarma Spice: In a small bowl, combine the cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, garlic powder, and optional cayenne pepper.
- Prepare Vegetables and Chickpeas:
- In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, cauliflower florets, diced sweet potato, and chopped red bell pepper.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and the shawarma spice mix. Toss until everything is well coated.
- Roast the Mixture:
- Spread the seasoned vegetables and chickpeas in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 25–30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and starting to brown. Stir halfway through for even cooking.
Make the Tahini Sauce
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl or blender, mix tahini, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Gradually add water until you reach your desired consistency (smooth and pourable).
Assemble the Shawarma
- Serve:
- Warm pita or flatbreads.
- Fill each bread with a generous portion of the roasted chickpea and vegetable mixture.
- Drizzle with tahini sauce and top with fresh vegetables like lettuce and tomatoes.
- Enjoy! This vegetarian shawarma is perfect for lunch or dinner and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
This recipe not only captures the essence of traditional shawarma but also provides a healthy and satisfying meal option that’s easy to prepare!
Here are some creative toppings for vegan shawarma, a recipe for vegan tzatziki sauce, the best vegan chicken alternatives for shawarma, options for different types of flour for flatbreads, and a method to make pickled onions.
Creative Toppings for Vegan Shawarma
- Fresh Vegetables: Add sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and shredded lettuce for crunch.
- Pickled Onions: These add a tangy flavor that complements the spices in shawarma well.
- Hummus: A generous dollop of hummus enhances creaminess and flavor.
- Tahini Sauce: Drizzle with tahini for a nutty taste.
- Spicy Sauce: Try a spicy harissa or chili sauce for heat.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado can add richness to your wrap.
- Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or cilantro can brighten up the dish.
Vegan Tzatziki Sauce Recipe
To make vegan tzatziki sauce from scratch, you will need:
- Cucumber: 1 medium, grated and drained of excess moisture
- Vegan Yogurt: 1 cup (coconut or almond-based works well)
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon
- Fresh Dill: 2 tablespoons, chopped (or mint for variation)
- Salt: to taste
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine the grated cucumber, vegan yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and dill.
- Mix well and season with salt to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Best Vegan Chicken Alternatives for Shawarma
Some excellent vegan chicken alternatives include:
- Soy Curls: These are versatile and absorb flavors well.
- Seitan: Known for its chewy texture, seitan can mimic meat effectively.
- Chickpeas: Roasted chickpeas can add protein and crunch.
- Oyster Mushrooms: Their meaty texture makes them a great substitute.
- Store-Bought Options: Brands like Gardein or Beyond Meat offer ready-made vegan chicken products that work well.
Alternative Flours for Flatbreads
You can use different types of flour for making flatbreads:
- Whole Wheat Flour: For a healthier option with more fiber.
- Gluten-Free Flour Blends: Ideal if you need a gluten-free alternative.
- Spelt Flour: A nutritious option that adds a nutty flavor.
- Chickpea Flour: This can be used to make thicker flatbreads or pancakes.
How to Make Pickled Onions
Ingredients:
- Red Onions: 1 large, thinly sliced
- Vinegar: 1 cup (white or apple cider vinegar)
- Water: 1 cup
- Sugar: 1 tablespoon (adjust to taste)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Heat until sugar dissolves.
- Place sliced onions in a jar and pour the hot vinegar mixture over them.
- Let cool to room temperature before sealing the jar. Refrigerate for at least an hour before using; they will keep in the fridge for up to two weeks.
These components will enhance your vegan shawarma experience with vibrant flavors and textures!
