Kebab Recipe Vegetarian Ideas for Delicious Meatless Meals

Are you craving a delicious, smoky, and satisfying kebab but want to keep it entirely plant-based? This vegetarian kebab recipe is your go-to solution!

Packed with wholesome ingredients like chickpeas, vegetables, and fragrant spices, these kebabs are not only flavorful but also incredibly nutritious. Perfect for grilling or pan-frying, they offer a wonderful alternative to traditional meat kebabs without sacrificing taste or texture.

Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, preparing a quick weeknight dinner, or simply want to enjoy a healthy snack, these vegetarian kebabs will impress your family and friends. Their vibrant colors and aromatic spices make them a feast for the senses.

Plus, this recipe is adaptable to suit your pantry and taste preferences, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection. Ready to dive into the world of tasty vegetarian kebabs?

Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vegetarian kebabs are a fantastic way to enjoy the bold flavors and fun presentation of traditional kebabs without any meat. This recipe uses a blend of chickpeas and vegetables, which creates a beautiful texture that holds together well on skewers.

The spices and fresh herbs add layers of flavor that make every bite exciting.

Not only are these kebabs delicious and satisfying, but they are also packed with protein and fiber, making them a nutritious choice. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and cook quickly, whether you grill them outdoors or pan-fry them on the stove.

This recipe is perfect for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone looking to add more plant-based meals to their diet.

For more inspiration on vegetarian meals, check out these great recipes: Vegetarian Middle Eastern Recipes for Easy, Flavorful Meals, Instant Pot Vegetarian Recipes Indian Food Lovers Adore, and Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners.

Ingredients

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 medium carrot, grated
• 1 small zucchini, grated and excess moisture squeezed out
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if desired)
• 2 tablespoons chickpea flour or all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for cooking)
• Wooden or metal skewers

Equipment

• Food processor or blender
• Mixing bowls
• Grater
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Skewers (wooden skewers soaked in water for 30 minutes or metal skewers)
• Grill pan, outdoor grill, or large skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or tongs

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Grate the carrot and zucchini. Place the zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible to prevent soggy kebabs.
2. Process the chickpeas: In a food processor, pulse the chickpeas until they are coarsely mashed but not pureed. You want some texture to remain.
3. Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed chickpeas, grated carrot, grated zucchini, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, and cilantro.
4. Add spices and binders: Stir in the breadcrumbs, chickpea flour, cumin, smoked paprika, coriander, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Drizzle in the olive oil and mix well until the mixture holds together. If it feels too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs.
5. Shape the kebabs: Divide the mixture into 8-10 equal portions. With wet hands, form each portion into a sausage-like shape around each skewer. Press firmly so they hold together.
6. Preheat your cooking surface: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat and brush with olive oil. Alternatively, preheat your outdoor grill.
7. Cook the kebabs: Place the skewers on the grill or pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and heated through. Turn carefully to avoid breaking.
8. Serve: Remove from heat and let rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

“For extra flavor, marinate your kebabs briefly in a yogurt-based sauce or tahini dressing before grilling.”

Feel free to customize your vegetarian kebabs by adding chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the mixture for added nutrition and texture. If you want a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or oats.

To make these kebabs more Middle Eastern-style, add a teaspoon of sumac or za’atar spice. For a smoky twist, a dash of smoked paprika or chipotle powder works wonders.

If you don’t have a grill or pan, you can bake these kebabs on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Serve these vegetarian kebabs with warm pita bread, a side of cooling cucumber yogurt sauce or vegan tzatziki, and a fresh salad of tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion. Hummus and tabbouleh also pair beautifully with these kebabs for a full Middle Eastern-inspired meal.

For a more filling option, plate the kebabs over a bed of fluffy couscous or rice pilaf. Grilled vegetables such as bell peppers and eggplants also complement the smoky flavors perfectly.

Conclusion

This vegetarian kebab recipe is a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy a meatless meal that feels special and satisfying. The combination of chickpeas, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices creates a delicious texture and taste that everyone can enjoy.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or a quick family dinner, these kebabs hold together well, cook quickly, and provide a healthy dose of protein and fiber.

Vegetarian kebabs are perfect for expanding your plant-based repertoire and impressing guests with a colorful, tasty dish. For more creative vegetarian recipes, be sure to check out the Vegetarian Middle Eastern Recipes for Easy, Flavorful Meals, and if you love baking, you might enjoy the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious.

For bread lovers, the Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves is a fantastic companion.

Give these vegetarian kebabs a try and enjoy a fresh, wholesome meal that’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen!

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