Crispy Skillet Shawarma Tofu

Ingredients

• 1 medium red onion (thinly sliced)
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• salt (to taste)
• 14 oz firm tofu (pressed and cut into 1-inch cubes)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp shawarma spice blend
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 3 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 tbsp water
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 medium cucumber (diced)
• 2 medium tomato (diced)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
• 2 tbsp fresh mint (chopped)
• 4 pieces pita bread or flatbread
• 1 tsp sumac (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. 1

   Make the pickled onions: Thinly slice the red onion and place in a small bowl. Pour the red wine vinegar over the onions, add a pinch of salt, and let sit for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

   10 min
2. 2

   Press the tofu: Wrap the firm tofu block in a clean kitchen towel or paper towels and press gently to remove excess moisture. Cut into 1-inch cubes.

   5 min
3. 3

   Season the tofu: In a small bowl, combine the shawarma spice blend, salt, and black pepper. Toss the tofu cubes with this mixture until evenly coated.

   2 min
4. 4

   Cook the tofu: Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned tofu cubes in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes until the bottom is golden and crispy, then stir and continue cooking for another 4–5 minutes until all sides are crispy and browned.

   10 min
5. 5

   Make the tahini sauce: While the tofu cooks, whisk together the tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, water, and salt in a small bowl until smooth and creamy. Adjust consistency with more water if needed.

   3 min
6. 6

   Prepare the vegetables: Dice the cucumber and tomatoes, and chop the fresh parsley and mint. Set aside.

   5 min
7. 7

   Assemble: Warm the pita bread or flatbread. Spread a generous amount of tahini sauce on each piece, then layer with crispy tofu, diced vegetables, pickled onions, and fresh herbs. Sprinkle with sumac if desired and serve immediately.

   3 min

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