Description
This Vegan Souvlaki recipe features marinated super firm tofu cubes grilled to perfection and served in warm pita bread with classic Greek accompaniments like hummus, tzatziki sauce, cucumber, and red onion. A flavorful, plant-based take on traditional souvlaki that's perfect for a quick and healthy Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Tofu Marinade
- 1 block super firm tofu (or extra-firm tofu pressed)
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
To Serve
- Pita bread
- Hummus
- Tzatziki sauce
- Cucumber (sliced)
- Red onion (sliced)
Instructions
- Press the tofu: If you’re not using super firm tofu, press your tofu by wrapping it in a lint-free kitchen towel and placing a heavy object such as a plate or can on top. Let it sit for 15-30 minutes to remove excess moisture, which will help it absorb flavors better and cook more evenly.
- Slice the tofu: Once pressed, cut the tofu into cubes or long strips depending on how you’d like to present your souvlaki skewers.
- Prepare the seasoning: In a small bowl, mix together dried oregano, paprika, garlic powder, dried thyme, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper to create a classic souvlaki spice blend.
- Marinate the tofu: In a large bowl, combine the tofu pieces with olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and the prepared souvlaki seasoning. Toss thoroughly to ensure all tofu pieces are coated evenly with the marinade.
- Refrigerate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the tofu for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors develop. For deeper flavor, marinate overnight.
- Cook the tofu: Preheat your grill or a skillet over medium-high heat. Thread the marinated tofu pieces onto skewers. Grill or pan-fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Assemble the souvlaki: Warm the pita bread. Spread a layer of hummus, then add tzatziki sauce. Top with grilled tofu, sliced cucumber, and red onion. Fold and serve immediately.
Notes
- Pressing tofu is essential to remove moisture and improve flavor absorption.
- Marinating overnight enhances the taste but a minimum of 30 minutes is sufficient if short on time.
- If using wooden skewers for grilling, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- You can easily make the tzatziki sauce vegan by using dairy-free yogurt alternatives.
- Serve with a side salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
