Here’s a delicious and easy recipe for vegan kofta that can be grilled or baked, perfect for a barbecue or a cozy dinner.

Ingredients

For the Kofta:

• 450 g vegan mince (e.g., Beyond Meat or Oumph!)
• 3 cloves garlic, crushed
• 2 teaspoons ground coriander
• 1.5 teaspoons salt
• 1.5 teaspoons ground cumin
• 0.5 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon ground allspice
• 0.25 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 0.25 teaspoon ground cardamom
• Oil for brushing (canola or sunflower)

For the Tzatziki Sauce (optional):

• 1 cup vegan Greek-style yogurt
• 1 cucumber, grated
• Juice of half a lemon
• Fresh dill, chopped (to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Kofta Mixture:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the vegan mince with the crushed garlic and all the spices (coriander, salt, cumin, black pepper, allspice, turmeric, and cardamom).
• Mix thoroughly with your hands until the spices are evenly distributed. Allow the mixture to rest for about 10 minutes.

Shape the Kofta:

• Take a handful of the mixture and press it onto skewers (wooden or metal). Ensure it adheres well to form a cylindrical shape around each skewer.
• Repeat this process until all the mixture is used.

Cook the Kofta:

• Grilling Method: Preheat your grill. Brush the skewers with oil to prevent sticking. Grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are browned and cooked through.
• Baking Method: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 10-12 minutes until firm.

Make the Tzatziki Sauce:

• In a bowl, mix together the vegan yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Serve:

• Serve the kofta warm with tzatziki sauce on the side, along with pita bread or flatbread and fresh vegetables if desired.

Tips

• You can add chopped fresh herbs like parsley or mint to the kofta mixture for extra flavor.
• If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

This recipe is not only flavorful but also versatile, allowing you to enjoy it in various ways, whether as part of a meal or as a tasty snack!

Creative Ways to Serve Vegan Kofta

1. In Flatbreads: Serve grilled kofta in warm pita or flatbread, topped with fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and pickled onions, along with a drizzle of vegan tzatziki or tahini sauce.
2. As a Salad Topping: Slice the kofta and add it to a mixed greens salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and a lemon-olive oil dressing for a refreshing meal.
3. Meze Platter: Create a meze platter with kofta, hummus, baba ganoush, olives, and assorted breads for a delightful appetizer spread.
4. Grain Bowls: Layer kofta over quinoa, couscous, or rice with roasted vegetables and a dollop of vegan yogurt for a hearty bowl mea.
5. Stuffed Vegetables: Use kofta as a filling for bell peppers or zucchini boats, topped with marinara sauce and baked until heated through.

Alternative Flours for Vegan Kofta

You can substitute oat flour with other types of flour in vegan kofta recipes. Here are some alternatives:

• Chickpea Flour: Adds protein and a slightly nutty flavor.
• Almond Flour: Offers a rich taste and is gluten-free.
• All-Purpose Flour: A versatile option that works well if gluten is not a concern.
• Rice Flour: A good gluten-free choice that keeps the texture light.

Making Vegan Kofta Without a Food Processor

If you don’t have a food processor, you can still make vegan kofta by:

1. Mashing Ingredients by Hand: Use a fork or potato masher to mash cooked lentils or beans until they are mostly smooth.
2. Chopping Ingredients Finely: Finely chop vegetables like onions and garlic using a knife.
3. Mixing by Hand: Combine all ingredients in a large bowl using your hands to ensure everything is well mixed.

Good Side Dishes to Pair with Vegan Kofta

1. Tabbouleh Salad: A refreshing salad made with parsley, mint, tomatoes, and bulgur.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil and herbs complement the flavors of kofta well.
3. Couscous or Quinoa Salad: Lightly spiced grain salads add texture and flavor.
4. Hummus or Baba Ganoush: Serve as dips alongside the kofta for added richness.

Keeping Vegan Kofta Moist

To ensure your vegan kofta stays moist:

1. Add Moisture-Rich Ingredients: Incorporate ingredients like grated zucchini or carrots into the mixture.
2. Use Oil Generously: Brush the kofta with oil before cooking to lock in moisture.
3. Avoid Overcooking: Monitor cooking times closely; remove from heat as soon as they are cooked through to prevent drying out.
4. Serve Immediately: Enjoy the kofta right after cooking for the best texture and flavor.

These tips will help you make delicious vegan kofta that is versatile and enjoyable in various dishes!