Simple and Delicious Vegan Kebabs

June 27, 2023

This vegan kebab recipe is the perfect addition to your next summer BBQ.

Gone are the days when kebabs were exclusively associated with juicy chunks of meat skewered and grilled to perfection. These Vegan Kebabs are bursting with flavors, textures, and creativity, you won’t even miss the meat.

One of the beauties of Vegan Kebabs lies in their versatility. A myriad of ingredients can be used to replicate the complex flavors and textures typically associated with kebabs. If you follow Weight Watchers, this recipe costs only 2 points per serving!

If you are looking for more vegan mushroom recipes check out my collection.

Why You Should Try This Vegan Kebab Recipe

Health benefits. Vegan Kebabs are typically made from plant-based ingredients, such as vegetables, seitan, and tofu, which are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. By choosing Vegan Kebabs over a traditional meat-based kebab, you can reduce your intake of saturated fats and cholesterol while increasing your consumption of nutrient-dense plant foods.

Culinary exploration. Trying new recipes is a great way to expand your culinary horizons and discover new flavors and textures. Vegan Kebabs can be made with a variety of ingredients, such as marinated vegetables, seasoned tofu, or plant-based meat alternatives, allowing you to experiment with different combinations and spices.
Inclusivity. Offering vegan options at social gatherings or events ensures that everyone, including those with dietary restrictions or preferences, can enjoy the food. By mastering a vegan kebab recipe, you can cater to a wider range of guests and create a more inclusive dining experience.

Vegan Kebabs Recipe Overview

Prep time: 30 min

Cooking time: 10 min

Total time: 40 min

Serves: 4

Ingredients in Vegan Kebabs

Marinade:

2 tbsp mustard

2 tbsp soy sauce

Vegan Kebabs:

2 cups seitan chunks

1 cup zucchini, cut into bite-sized cubes

1 cup button mushrooms

1 small red beet, cut into bite-sized cubes

4-6 cherry tomatoes

1 tbsp BBQ spice mix of choice

1 tbsp olive oil

How to Make Vegan Kebabs (step by step)

In a ceramic or glass bowl, mix the mustard and soy sauce until well combined. Add seitan chunks to the bowl and let them marinate for about 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, place bamboo skewers in a dish, pour over warm water and leave them to soak for 20 minutes.
Next, toss vegetables with BBQ spice mix and olive oil. Thread the marinated seitan and vegetables onto the skewers, alternating between different ingredients.
Grill your kebabs for approximately 5 minutes on each side or until cooked through and nicely charred.

Nutrition facts:

Vegan Kebabs Variations/Substitutions

Let’s talk about the star of the show: the plant-based protein! You can use firm or extra-firm tofu cut into cubes or slices. Marinate it in your favorite spices and sauces before grilling. Similar to tofu, tempeh is made from fermented soybeans and has a hearty texture. Marinate and grill like tofu.
Other vegetable options include bell peppers, red onion, eggplant, and summer squash.
You can use various flavorful marinades and sauces. For example, you can make lemon-herb marinade with lemon juice, minced garlic, fresh herbs, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Or mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper for a Mediterranean twist. Teriyaki sauce is also a popular option for Vegan Kebabs. You can choose a vegan barbecue sauce or make your own using tomato paste, molasses, soy sauce, and spices.
If you don’t have access to a grill or oven, you can also pan-fry your kebabs in a lightly oiled skillet or a grill pan. Cook them on medium-high heat, turning them occasionally until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Accompaniments and sauces play a crucial role in elevating the kebab experience. Serve your kebabs with a side of hummus for extra creaminess and flavor. You can also make dairy-free tzatziki using plant-based yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, lemon juice, and fresh dill.
Sprinkle chopped parsley, cilantro, or mint over the kebabs for added freshness.
When it comes to serving Vegan Kebabs, the possibilities are equally diverse. Wrap them in warm, pillowy pita bread, tuck them into soft tortillas, or load them onto a bed of fluffy quinoa or couscous. Pair them with a colorful array of salads, vibrant pickles, or perfectly roasted potatoes. The choice is yours, and the combinations are endless!

Tips and Tricks for Making Vegan Kebabs

Marinating your Vegan Kebab ingredients helps infuse them with flavor and tenderize them. Allow the ingredients to marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight in the refrigerator for a more intense flavor.
Add a variety of colorful vegetables to your kebabs for taste, texture, and visual appeal.
Soak bamboo skewers in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.
Cook the kebabs on a grill or in the oven. If roasting, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place your kebabs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast for approximately 20 minutes, turning them halfway through.
While grilling or roasting, baste the kebabs with any remaining marinade or a sauce of your choice. This helps keep them moist and adds an extra layer of flavor.
Don’t be afraid to get creative with your seasonings. Consider adding spices like paprika, cumin, turmeric, coriander, or chili powder to the marinade or as a dry rub. Explore various regional kebab styles, such as Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, Indian, or Asian-inspired flavors. Each cuisine offers unique spices and ingredients that can elevate the taste of your Vegan Kebabs. Enjoy!

Related Recipes:

Vegan Buffalo Wings

Weight Watchers Grilled Shrimp

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