Vegan Shawarma

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tbsp ground coriander
• 1 tbsp ground paprika
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1 tsp ground allspice
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Vegetables:

• 1 large red onion, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (e.g., button or cremini)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Tahini Sauce:

• 1/2 cup tahini
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp maple syrup or agave syrup (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
• Salt to taste

For Assembly:

• Pita bread or flatbreads
• Sliced cucumbers
• Shredded lettuce
• Sliced tomatoes
• Pickles (optional)
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Shawarma Spice Blend:

1. Mix Spices: In a small bowl, combine cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, allspice, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.

2. Marinate the Vegetables:

1. Season Vegetables: In a large bowl, toss sliced red onion, bell peppers, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil and the shawarma spice blend. Ensure the vegetables are evenly coated.
2. Marinate: Let the vegetables marinate for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

3. Cook the Vegetables:

1. Preheat Oven or Grill: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) or heat a grill to medium-high heat.
2. Roast or Grill: If using an oven, spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and slightly charred. If grilling, use a grill basket or skewers and grill the vegetables for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked and slightly charred.

4. Prepare the Tahini Sauce:

1. Mix Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together tahini, water, lemon juice, minced garlic, and maple syrup or agave syrup (if using) until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency with more water if needed. Season with salt to taste.

5. Assemble the Shawarma:

1. Warm the Bread: Heat the pita or flatbreads briefly on a skillet or in the oven until warm and pliable.
2. Layer Ingredients: Spread a generous amount of tahini sauce on the bread, then add the roasted or grilled vegetables. Top with sliced cucumbers, shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and pickles if desired.
3. Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

6. Serve:

• Serve the Vegan Veggie Shawarma immediately, with extra tahini sauce on the side if desired.