Vegan Shawarma Sandwich

If you love the flavor of shawarma but are looking for a plant-based alternative, this vegan shawarma sandwich is for you! Thin tofu slices are marinated in Mediterranean spices and baked until crisp and warm, then wrapped in whole wheat pita bread with creamy hummus and vegetables for the ultimate vegan sandwich!

Jump to:

• 💗 Why You’ll Love this Vegan Shawarma Recipe
• 🥣 Ingredients and Notes
• Variations and Substitutions
• 👩🏻‍🍳 How to Make Vegan Shawarma
• 📝 Expert Tips
• ❓ FAQS
• 🍽 Serving Suggestions
• ⚖️ Serving Size
• 🫙 Storage
• 🎥 Video
• 😋 More Vegan Sandwich Recipes!
• Recipe

Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern street food that consists of thinly sliced, seasoned meat that is cooked on a vertical rotisserie. How then do you enjoy the flavors of shawarma if you are plant-based? It’s all about the way you season your tofu!

The flavor profile of shawarma differs slightly depending on its region of origin. Typically the meat is seasoned with spices like cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, and cloves. This imparts a deep, savory flavor with warm and earthy undertones.

This vegan version is no different! Tofu is marinated in a combination of paprika, cumin, garlic, onion powder, turmeric, and chili powder with a pinch of salt and black pepper for a harmonious blend that imparts an authentic shawarma flavor.

💗 Why You’ll Love this Vegan Shawarma Recipe

• Simple Ingredients
• Savory and Flavorful
• Packed with Veggies
• Easy Weeknight Dinner or Lunch

🥣 Ingredients and Notes

Extra Firm Tofu: Drain and press tofu. Then, cut into thin slices. This creates the perfect sponge to absorb the flavor from various spices.

Spices: Smoky paprika, earthy cumin, aromatic garlic powder, and onion powder, with chili powder for spice and salt and pepper.

Olive Oil: The spices are whisked with olive oil and then brushed on the tofu to marinate and bake.

Lemon Juice: Provides a balance of acidity.

Hummus: Adds texture and flavor to the wrap. Make your own hummus or use storebought.

Vegetables: Choose your favorite vegetables to serve with your shawarma. The traditional vegetables used include sliced cucumber, tomatoes, red onions, and fresh parsley.

Whole Wheat Pita: Wrap it all up in pita bread. Use whole wheat for extra fiber, or choose a gluten-free bread option or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb version.

Variations and Substitutions

Add Pickled Vegetables: Pickled turnips, radishes, or cucumbers can add a tangy and vibrant element to your shawarma. You can make quick pickles with vinegar, water, sugar, and salt.

Make a Tahini Sauce: Prepare a creamy tahini sauce instead of using hummus. You’ll need tahini paste, lemon juice, garlic, and water. This sauce adds a rich, nutty flavor.

Mushrooms or Chickpeas: If you are not a fan of tofu, you can use the same marinade with sliced portobello mushrooms or a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas. Then, bake it the same way you would the tofu.

👩🏻‍🍳 How to Make Vegan Shawarma

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the block of tofu into thin strips.
3. Whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, turmeric, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
4. Place the sliced tofu in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tofu with the spice mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated on all sides.
5. Bake the tofu for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until it is crispy and golden brown.
6. While the tofu is baking, warm the pita bread in the oven or on a stovetop griddle. Spread a generous amount of hummus on each pita to assemble the shawarma.
7. Top the hummus with chopped parsley, sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onions.
8. Add the crispy tofu strips on top of the vegetables.
9. Roll up the pita bread tightly and serve immediately.

📝 Expert Tips

Select Extra-Firm Tofu: Start with extra-firm tofu, as it holds its shape and texture better when thinly sliced and cooked.

Press the Tofu: Before slicing, press the tofu to remove excess moisture. This can be done using a tofu press or placing the tofu between paper towels and using a weighted object.

Marinate Thoroughly: Marinate the tofu slices in a mixture of spices and seasonings for at least 30 minutes, but longer is better for more flavor.

Warm the Pita Bread: Heat the whole wheat pita bread before assembling the shawarma. You can warm it on the grill or in a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side.

Wrapping Techniques: When assembling the shawarma, start by placing a grilled tofu line in the pita’s center. Add your fresh toppings and drizzle with tahini sauce. Fold the sides of the pita and then roll it tightly from the bottom to keep everything together.

❓ FAQS

🍽 Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of fresh tabbouleh made from bulgur wheat, finely chopped parsley, tomatoes, cucumbers, fresh mint, and onions tossed with lemon juice and olive oil. It provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of shawarma.

Another beautiful complimentary accompaniment is vegan tzatziki sauce. The creaminess provides a refreshing complement to the spice of the tofu.

Other side dish options include fattoush salad or vegan Greek salad. Try these air fryer potato wedges if you want a heavier side dish! This sandwich makes for a simple weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.

⚖️ Serving Size

This recipe makes four sandwiches. You may have some leftover tofu shawarma slices to add to your salads for extra protein.

🫙 Storage

Fridge: Store any leftover tofu slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheat: Place the tofu on a griddle or sauté pan over medium heat. Warm on each side for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through and crispy.

🎥 Video

😋 More Vegan Sandwich Recipes!

Recipe