Puerto Rican Vegan Shami Kebabs: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic
In the heart of Puerto Rican cuisine, there lies a rich tapestry of flavors and traditions that can be beautifully adapted to vegan cooking. Here, we’re transforming the traditional Shami Kebab into a vibrant, plant-based delight that honors the island’s culinary heritage.
The Magic of Puerto Rican Flavors
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about the trio of flavors that make Puerto Rican cuisine so unique: Sazón, Adobo, and Sofrito. These blends are the backbone of traditional Puerto Rican cooking and will elevate your vegan Shami Kebabs to new heights.
- Sazón: A colorful spice mix that adds a golden-red hue and deep flavor to dishes. It’s a blend of annatto, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper.
- Adobo: A simple yet versatile dry rub that enhances and tenderizes proteins with bold, savory flavors. It typically includes garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and sometimes paprika.
- Sofrito: A fresh herb-and-vegetable blend that forms the aromatic base of many dishes. It’s made from culantro, cilantro, ají dulce peppers, onion, garlic, and sometimes tomatoes or roasted red peppers.
Vegan Shami Kebabs Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas
- 1/2 cup cooked black beans (or other beans of your choice)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Sofrito (see below for homemade Sofrito recipe)
- 1 teaspoon Sazón
- 1 teaspoon Adobo
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: A splash of vinegar for balance and health benefits
Homemade Sofrito Recipe:
- 1 bunch culantro (recao leaves)
- 1 bunch cilantro
- 6–8 ají dulce peppers (or substitute with cubanelle or bell peppers)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 head garlic, peeled
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2–3 ripe tomatoes or 1/2 cup roasted red peppers (optional)
Roughly chop all ingredients and blend in a food processor until smooth. Freeze in ice cube trays for long-term use.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sofrito: If using frozen Sofrito, thaw it first. If making fresh, blend all the ingredients in a food processor until smooth.
- Sauté the Sofrito: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add 2-3 tablespoons of Sofrito and sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, mash the chickpeas and black beans using a fork or a potato masher until they are well combined but still chunky.
- Add Flavor: Add the sautéed Sofrito, chopped onion, cilantro, garlic, Sazón, Adobo, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Mix well.
- Shape the Kebabs: Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties or kebabs. You should end up with around 8-10 kebabs.
- Cook the Kebabs: Heat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Add a little olive oil and cook the kebabs until they are golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Finish with a Splash: Once cooked, squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the kebabs and add a splash of vinegar if desired to balance the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Vegan Shami Kebabs with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or alongside a hearty bowl of vegan Arroz con Gandules (Puerto Rican Rice and Beans). For an authentic touch, garnish with additional cilantro and a squeeze of lemon.
Cultural Significance
These vegan Shami Kebabs are more than just a meal; they are a celebration of the rich cultural heritage of Puerto Rico. By using traditional spice blends like Sazón, Adobo, and Sofrito, we honor the island’s history and the diverse influences that have shaped its cuisine.
Tips and Variations
- TVP, Tofu, or Tempeh: If you prefer a different texture, you can substitute the chickpeas and black beans with textured vegetable protein (TVP), crumbled tofu, or tempeh.
- Affordable and Accessible: TVP is widely available in Puerto Rico and is a very affordable option, making it an excellent choice for this recipe.
- Balance of Flavors: Remember, a splash of vinegar can enhance the savory flavors and add health benefits to your dish.
Enjoy your delicious Puerto Rican Vegan Shami Kebabs, a dish that not only tastes amazing but also connects you to the vibrant culture and traditions of the island.
- Vegan Boricua Pantry Essentials