Vegan Spicy Cauliflower Shawarma: A Delicious Middle Eastern Twist
This Vegan Spicy Cauliflower Shawarma recipe offers a mouthwatering, plant-based alternative to the traditional meat shawarma, without compromising on flavor. Inspired by the vibrant and diverse flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine, this dish features roasted cauliflower seasoned with shawarma spices, creating a tender, caramelized texture that pairs perfectly with a variety of fresh accompaniments. This recipe is not only vegan but also nutrient-dense, making it an excellent choice for a wholesome, satisfying meal.
The dish is further complemented by a Mediterranean salad packed with crisp vegetables, pickled onions, and a creamy tahini sauce, all wrapped in a warm, fluffy pita bread. This combination brings together both the traditional and contemporary elements of Middle Eastern cuisine, resulting in a dish that is as nourishing as it is flavorful. Whether you’re new to vegan cuisine or a long-time plant-based eater, this dish offers a rich culinary experience that will leave your taste buds craving more.
Ingredients for Vegan Spicy Cauliflower Shawarma:
- 1 large head of cauliflower, divided into florets
- 1 large yellow onion, halved and sliced
- 2 tablespoons shawarma spice blend (a mixture of cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, garlic powder, and cinnamon)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Pita bread, store-bought or homemade (opt for gluten-free if necessary)
For the 3-Ingredient Mediterranean Salad:
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1 large tomato, diced
- A handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Lemon juice, to taste
- Olive oil, for drizzling
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Tahini Sauce:
- 1/2 cup tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2-3 tablespoons water (to thin the sauce)
- Garlic, minced, to taste
- Salt, to taste
For Garnishes:
- Pickled red onions, thinly sliced
- Cucumber pickles (optional but recommended for extra tang)
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 86.7 kcal
- Protein: 3.5g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 9.4g
- Fiber: 3.2g
- Sugar: 4.3g
- Sodium: 340mg
Directions:
Step 1: Preparing the Cauliflower Shawarma
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). While the oven is heating, prepare your cauliflower by removing the leaves and cutting the head into bite-sized florets. Ensure that the florets are of a uniform size to ensure even cooking.
In a large mixing bowl, toss the cauliflower florets and the sliced yellow onions with the shawarma spice blend, kosher salt, and ground black pepper. Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables and toss until everything is evenly coated. The shawarma spice blend typically contains ingredients such as cumin, coriander, paprika, garlic powder, turmeric, and cinnamon, which provide the dish with its signature warm and earthy flavor profile.
Step 2: Roasting the Cauliflower and Onions
Next, spread the cauliflower and onions evenly on a baking sheet. To ensure they cook evenly and don’t dry out, cover the sheet pan with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes.
After 15 minutes, remove the foil, rotate the cauliflower florets, and return the pan to the oven. Continue baking for another 25-30 minutes, or until the cauliflower is golden brown and caramelized. The cauliflower should be tender but still have a slight bite to it, and the edges should be crisp.
Step 3: Preparing the Mediterranean Salad
While the cauliflower is roasting, prepare the 3-ingredient Mediterranean salad. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced cucumber, diced tomato, and freshly chopped parsley. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and squeeze in fresh lemon juice to add brightness to the salad. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside, and let the flavors meld while the cauliflower finishes roasting.
Step 4: Making the Tahini Sauce
Tahini sauce adds a rich, creamy element to this dish. To make the sauce, combine the tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt in a small bowl. Gradually add water, one tablespoon at a time, stirring continuously, until the sauce reaches a smooth, pourable consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more lemon juice or garlic for an extra tangy punch. The creamy tahini sauce will complement the spices of the cauliflower and the freshness of the Mediterranean salad beautifully.
Step 5: Assembling the Shawarma Wrap
Once the cauliflower is roasted to perfection, it’s time to assemble the shawarma wraps. Warm the pita bread in the oven or on a stovetop griddle for about 1-2 minutes to make it soft and pliable.
To assemble, place a generous amount of the roasted cauliflower and onions in the center of each pita. Top with a spoonful of the Mediterranean salad for freshness and crunch. Add a few pickled red onion slices and cucumber pickles for a tangy contrast. Finally, drizzle a good amount of tahini sauce over the top to bring everything together.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Fold the pita over the filling and serve immediately. You can pair this dish with a side of hummus or a fresh olive tapenade for an even more authentic Mediterranean experience. The flavors will continue to develop as they meld together, making this shawarma wrap an unforgettable meal.
Additional Tips and Variations:
- Shawarma Spice Blend: If you don’t have a pre-made shawarma spice blend, you can easily make your own by combining equal parts ground cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and cinnamon. Add a dash of garlic powder and a pinch of cayenne for heat if you prefer a spicier dish.
- Make it Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, simply substitute the regular pita with a gluten-free pita or wrap. You can even use a lettuce wrap for a low-carb alternative.
- Roast More Vegetables: While cauliflower is the star of this dish, you can add other roasted vegetables to the shawarma, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots. These additional veggies will complement the shawarma spices and add more variety to the dish.
- Serve with a Side of Couscous: For a more substantial meal, you can serve the shawarma with a side of couscous or quinoa, both of which pair well with the Mediterranean flavors.
- Tahini Sauce Variations: Feel free to experiment with the tahini sauce by adding a bit of maple syrup or agave for sweetness, or a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. You can even use yogurt (plant-based or dairy) for a creamier version of the sauce.
- Storage and Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store the roasted cauliflower, Mediterranean salad, and tahini sauce separately in airtight containers. The cauliflower and salad can be reheated in the oven or eaten cold, while the tahini sauce should be stored in the fridge and used within 3-4 days.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Vegan Spicy Cauliflower Shawarma is a true crowd-pleaser. It brings all the flavor and excitement of traditional shawarma but with a vegan twist. The use of cauliflower as the base provides a satisfying, hearty texture that’s both tender and crisp, making it an excellent substitute for meat. The shawarma spice blend is the star of the dish, with its warm, aromatic flavors that will tantalize your taste buds and keep you coming back for more.
Additionally, the dish is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize the toppings and fillings to suit your taste. Whether you’re craving something tangy, spicy, or savory, you can easily adjust the recipe to fit your preferences.
Perfect for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings, this recipe also offers a healthy and nutritious meal option. Packed with vitamins, fiber, and plant-based protein, it’s an excellent choice for those looking to incorporate more vegetables into their diet or follow a vegan lifestyle.
By combining bold spices, fresh ingredients, and a creamy tahini sauce, this vegan shawarma recipe brings all the flavor of traditional Middle Eastern street food into your kitchen.