Vegan Tempeh Kebabs with Pickled Red Cabbage and Garlic Mayonnaise Recipe
Introduction
These vegan kebabs are a flavorful and satisfying plant-based twist on a classic favorite. Featuring marinated tempeh, tangy pickled cabbage, and creamy garlic mayo, they make a perfect quick lunch or light dinner. Plus, they come together easily with simple ingredients.

Ingredients
- 100g tempeh
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 2 tbsp vegan mayonnaise
- ½ small garlic clove, crushed
- 2 flatbreads
- 4 tbsp pickled red cabbage, drained
- 150g salad leaves
Instructions
- Step 1: Slice the tempeh into ½ cm thick slices. In a bowl, mix 1 tbsp olive oil with the smoked paprika, dried oregano, a pinch of salt, freshly cracked black pepper, and 1 tbsp water. Add the tempeh slices and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate overnight if possible, or leave at room temperature while preparing the other ingredients.
- Step 2: In a small bowl, beat the vegan mayonnaise with ½ tbsp water and the crushed garlic until smooth. Heat the flatbreads one at a time in a dry pan over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side until warm and pliable.
- Step 3: Spread the garlic mayonnaise evenly over both flatbreads. Top with the pickled red cabbage and scatter half the salad leaves over each.
- Step 4: Heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Fry the marinated tempeh slices for 2–3 minutes on each side until crispy and golden brown.
- Step 5: Place the cooked tempeh on top of each flatbread, fold them over, and serve with the remaining salad leaves on the side.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, marinate the tempeh overnight to allow the spices to soak in fully.
- Swap flatbreads for pita pockets or wraps for a different presentation.
- Add sliced cucumber or avocado for additional freshness and creaminess.
- Use your favorite salad leaves or add herbs like mint and coriander for more aroma.
Storage
Store any leftover tempeh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep flatbreads and fresh salad separate to prevent sogginess. Reheat tempeh in a pan over medium heat until warmed through. Assemble kebabs fresh before serving for the best texture.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use tofu instead of tempeh?
Yes, firm tofu can be used as a substitute. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture and marinate it similarly for best results.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free flatbreads. Check the labels to ensure all ingredients comply with your dietary needs.
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Vegan Tempeh Kebabs with Pickled Red Cabbage and Garlic Mayonnaise Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating)
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
These vegan kebabs feature crispy marinated tempeh with smoky paprika and oregano, paired with garlicky vegan mayonnaise, tangy pickled red cabbage, and fresh salad leaves, all wrapped in warm flatbreads for a flavorful and satisfying plant-based meal.
Ingredients
Tempeh Marinade
- 100g tempeh
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- Pinch of salt
- Crack of black pepper
- 1 tbsp water
Garlic Mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp vegan mayonnaise
- ½ small garlic clove, crushed
- ½ tbsp water
Assembly & Extras
- 2 flatbreads
- 4 tbsp pickled red cabbage, drained
- 150g salad leaves
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying tempeh)
Instructions
- Marinate the Tempeh: Slice the tempeh into ½ cm thick slices. In a bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of olive oil with smoked paprika, dried oregano, a pinch of salt, a crack of black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of water. Add the tempeh slices and toss well to coat. Cover and refrigerate overnight if possible, or leave at room temperature while preparing other components.
- Prepare Garlic Mayonnaise and Flatbreads: In a small bowl, beat the vegan mayonnaise with crushed garlic and ½ tablespoon of water until smooth. Heat the flatbreads in a dry pan over medium heat, cooking each side for about 30 seconds until warm and pliable.
- Assemble Flatbreads: Spread the garlic mayonnaise evenly over both flatbreads. Add pickled red cabbage and half of the salad leaves on top of each flatbread.
- Fry the Tempeh: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large frying pan over high heat. Fry the marinated tempeh slices for 2-3 minutes on each side over medium heat until crispy and nicely browned.
- Finish and Serve: Pile the crispy tempeh over the prepared flatbreads, fold them over, and serve alongside the remaining salad leaves for a fresh finish.
Notes
- Marinating the tempeh overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness.
- For extra smoky flavor, you can add a dash of liquid smoke to the marinade.
- Use gluten-free flatbreads to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Feel free to add other fresh veggies like cucumber or tomato for additional texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes plus overnight marinating time
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Vegan
Keywords: vegan kebabs, tempeh kebabs, vegan flatbreads, plant-based kebabs, smoky tempeh recipe

