Vegan Kebab Recipe: Easy, Delicious, and Healthy Ideas

Updated On: October 2, 2025

Craving the smoky, spiced flavors of kebabs but want to keep it entirely plant-based? Look no further!

This vegan kebab recipe offers a mouthwatering alternative that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Perfect for grilling season or a cozy indoor meal, these kebabs are packed with vibrant vegetables, hearty legumes, and a blend of aromatic spices that will make your taste buds dance.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just experimenting with meatless meals, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Not only do these kebabs taste incredible, but they are also easy to customize, making them perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or even meal prepping. Plus, you’ll love how quickly they come together and the wholesome ingredients that fuel your body.

Get ready to impress your friends and family with this colorful, flavorful dish that proves vegan cooking can be exciting and delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan kebab recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy all the classic elements of traditional kebabs without any animal products. The combination of chickpeas, vegetables, and spices creates a perfect texture and flavor balance that’s both hearty and fresh.

It’s incredibly versatile: you can grill, bake, or pan-fry your kebabs depending on your preference and available equipment. The marinade infuses the kebabs with smoky, tangy notes that pair beautifully with a variety of sides and sauces.

Additionally, it’s a healthy option packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, these kebabs keep meals interesting and nutritious.

Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup cauliflower florets, finely chopped
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
  • 2 tbsp chickpea flour (or any other flour)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for grilling)
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional for heat)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Wooden or metal skewers (if grilling)

Equipment

  • Food processor or blender
  • Mixing bowl
  • Sharp knife and chopping board
  • Grill or grill pan (or oven)
  • Baking sheet (if baking)
  • Skewers (wooden soaked in water for 30 min or metal)
  • Spatula or tongs

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vegetables: Finely chop the cauliflower, red onion, and red bell pepper. Mince the garlic and chop the parsley. Set aside.
  2. Pulse the chickpeas: In a food processor, pulse the chickpeas a few times until coarsely mashed but not pureed. You want some texture.
  3. Combine ingredients: Transfer the mashed chickpeas to a mixing bowl. Add the chopped vegetables, garlic, parsley, breadcrumbs, chickpea flour, olive oil, soy sauce, and all the spices. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Mix thoroughly: Using your hands or a spoon, mix everything until it holds together well. If the mixture feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs; if too dry, add a splash of water or olive oil.
  5. Shape the kebabs: Divide the mixture into 8-10 equal portions. Shape each portion into elongated patties or around skewers if you prefer the traditional kebab shape.
  6. Preheat your grill or oven: For grilling, preheat to medium-high and brush the grill with oil. For oven, preheat to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  7. Cook the kebabs: Grill the kebabs for about 4-5 minutes per side, turning carefully until nicely charred and heated through. If baking, place kebabs on the baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
  8. Serve hot: Remove from heat and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra smoky flavor, add a dash of liquid smoke to the marinade or grill the kebabs over charcoal briquettes.

  • Swap chickpeas for lentils or black beans for different protein profiles.
  • Add finely chopped mushrooms or zucchini for extra moisture and umami.
  • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats to keep the recipe gluten-free.
  • Try serving with a vegan garlic yogurt sauce, tahini dressing, or a spicy harissa paste.
  • For indoor cooking, pan-fry the kebabs in a non-stick skillet with a little oil until crispy and golden.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Per Serving (1 kebab)
Calories 130
Protein 6g
Carbohydrates 18g
Fiber 5g
Fat 4g
Sodium 220mg

Serving Suggestions

These vegan kebabs are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. They pair wonderfully with warm pita bread, fresh cucumber and tomato salad, or a side of fluffy couscous.

For a Mediterranean-inspired meal, drizzle with tahini sauce and sprinkle with chopped mint and sumac.

Alternatively, serve the kebabs over a bed of rice pilaf or alongside grilled vegetables for a hearty feast. Don’t forget to add a squeeze of lemon for brightness and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to finish.

If you’re interested in more delicious plant-based dishes, be sure to check out Vegetarian Middle Eastern Recipes for Easy, Flavorful Meals and Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas for more inspiration.

Conclusion

This vegan kebab recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings together wholesome ingredients and bold flavors in a simple, satisfying way. It’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the essence of kebabs while sticking to a plant-based lifestyle.

The recipe is flexible, allowing you to customize the spices and vegetables to suit your personal taste or dietary needs.

Whether you’re grilling in the backyard, baking indoors, or pan-frying on a busy weeknight, these kebabs are quick to prepare and packed with nutrition. They make a fantastic main dish or appetizer that will impress vegans and meat-eaters alike.

For more easy and delicious vegan recipes, don’t miss our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes and Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.

📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Kebab Recipe

Description: A flavorful and healthy vegan kebab made with chickpeas and spices. Perfect for grilling or pan-frying as a plant-based alternative.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT35M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a food processor, pulse chickpeas and oats until finely ground.
  2. Add onion, garlic, parsley, and spices; pulse until combined but not pureed.
  3. Transfer mixture to a bowl and stir in soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
  4. Form mixture into 8 kebab shapes using your hands.
  5. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
  6. Cook kebabs for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and firm.
  7. Serve hot with your favorite sauce or salad.

Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 9 g | Fat: 8 g | Carbs: 28 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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