Name: Middle Eastern Tofu Kebabs: 7 Bold Flavors to Savor
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces; 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; Salt and black pepper to taste

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Introduction

Middle Eastern Tofu Kebabs are a delightful fusion of bold spices and tender tofu, creating a dish that’s not only vegan but also bursting with flavor. These kebabs are marinated in a fragrant blend of spices and grilled to perfection, making them an irresistible option for any meal. Whether you’re a tofu lover or just looking for a healthy vegetarian option, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Middle Eastern Tofu Kebabs

This recipe for Middle Eastern Tofu Kebabs is not just delicious; it’s packed with benefits. First, it’s a great source of protein thanks to the tofu, making it a healthy choice for plant-based diets. Second, the vibrant mix of vegetables like red and yellow bell peppers and onions adds not only flavor but also essential nutrients. Third, these kebabs are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for weeknight dinners. Fourth, the grilling method enhances the taste, giving them a smoky flavor that’s hard to resist. Additionally, they can easily be customized with your favorite veggies or spices, ensuring you’ll never get bored. Lastly, this dish is perfect for meal prep and can be enjoyed in various ways, such as in wraps, salads, or on skewers. Enjoy this vegan Tofu Kebabs recipe that brings a taste of the Middle East to your table!

Ingredients for Middle Eastern Tofu Kebabs

Gather these items:

1 block (14 oz) extra-firm tofu, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Salt and black pepper to taste

How to Make Middle Eastern Tofu Kebabs Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the cubed tofu, bell pepper pieces, and onion pieces.
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, coriander, and cayenne pepper. Season with salt and black pepper.
Step 3: Pour the marinade over the tofu and vegetables and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours.
Step 4: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Step 5: Thread the marinated tofu and vegetables onto skewers, making sure to evenly distribute the ingredients.
Step 6: Grill the kebabs for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the tofu is lightly charred and the vegetables are tender.
Step 7: Serve the Middle Eastern Tofu Kebabs immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired. Enjoy!

Middle Eastern Tofu Kebabs: 7 Bold Flavors to Savor - Middle Eastern Tofu Kebabs - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best Middle Eastern Tofu Kebabs

Keep these in mind:

Press your tofu before marinating to remove excess water; this helps it absorb the marinade better.
Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
For a smoky flavor, try adding a dash of liquid smoke to your marinade.
Use a grill basket if you’re worried about the tofu falling through the grill grates.

Best Ways to Serve Middle Eastern Tofu Kebabs

These kebabs can be served in various ways, making them versatile for any meal:

Wrap them in pita bread with fresh veggies and tahini sauce for a delicious sandwich.
Serve over a bed of quinoa or bulgur for a hearty salad.
Pair with a side of hummus and tabbouleh for a complete Middle Eastern-inspired meal.

How to Store and Reheat Middle Eastern Tofu Kebabs

To store leftovers, place the kebabs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on a grill or in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until heated through. This makes them a fantastic option for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Middle Eastern Tofu Kebabs

What’s the secret to perfect Middle Eastern Tofu Kebabs?

The secret lies in the marinade! Allow the tofu to soak in the flavors for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This will enhance the taste, ensuring that every bite is flavorful.

Can I make Middle Eastern Tofu Kebabs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the tofu and vegetables a day in advance. Just assemble the skewers and grill them when you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Middle Eastern Tofu Kebabs?

To avoid dry kebabs, don’t skip the marinating step, and make sure to grill them until they’re just charred but not overcooked. Using extra-firm tofu will also help maintain a good texture.

Variations of Middle Eastern Tofu Kebabs You Can Try

Here are a few variations you can experiment with:

Try adding different spices like sumac or za’atar for a unique twist.
Incorporate fruits like pineapple or peaches for a sweet and savory combination.
Make a spicy version by increasing the cayenne pepper or adding hot sauce to the marinade.
For a gluten-free option, ensure your marinade ingredients are gluten-free certified and serve with gluten-free sides.

For more information on the health benefits of tofu, check out this Healthline article.

For a delicious side dish, consider making Mediterranean Chicken to complement your kebabs.

To learn more about the nutritional value of bell peppers, visit this Healthline resource.

Middle Eastern Tofu Kebabs: 7 Bold Flavors to Savor

Author: Jannet Lisa
Total Time: 42 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegan

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Description

Discover the perfect balance of bold Middle Eastern flavors and tender tofu in these delightful Tofu Kebabs. Marinated in a fragrant spice blend and grilled to perfection, this meatless dish is a mouthwatering delight.

Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the cubed tofu, bell pepper pieces, and onion pieces.
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, coriander, and cayenne pepper. Season with salt and black pepper.
Pour the marinade over the tofu and vegetables and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours.
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Thread the marinated tofu and vegetables onto skewers, making sure to evenly distribute the ingredients.
Grill the kebabs for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the tofu is lightly charred and the vegetables are tender.
Serve the Middle Eastern Tofu Kebabs immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired. Enjoy!