Mains

Vegan Kefta Tajine – Moroccan ‘meatballs’ with a Plant-Based Twist

Name: Vegan Kefta Tajine
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 250 g firm tofu, crumbled; 60 g bread crumbs; 40 g walnuts; 60 ml oat milk (or other preferred); ½ white onion, roughly chopped; 2 garlic cloves; handful of fresh parsley, coriander and mint; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 2 tsp paprika powder, heaped; 2 tsp ground cumin, heaped; 1 tsp cinnamon; ½ tsp chili, or cayenne pepper; 1 tsp salt; 1170 g whole peeled tomatoes (3 x 390g cans); 50 ml olive oil; 1 large white onion, grated; 1 tsp curcuma, heaped; 1 tsp paprika powder, heaped; ½ tsp black ground pepper; salt to taste; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The Moroccan cuisine is one of the most elaborate in the world

Step into the enchanting world of Moroccan cuisine with this vegan twist on the classic dish – Kefta Tajine. Kefta are moroccan meatballs, that are traditionally simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce. We’ve recreated this beloved Moroccan dish with plant-based ingredients that are equally delicious and satisfying. The hearty tomato base, filled with flavours of curcuma, paprika, and olive oil, perfectly complements the tofu-based meatballs, creating a wholesome and flavourful culinary experience.

This vegan kefta come together in just a few steps and ingredients

Making this kefta tajine could not be easier. The ‘meatballs’ come together in a blender that creates a dough-like texture. They’re really easy to shape and sticks together perfectly. And while the meatballs bake in the oven, you can prepare the tomato base with just a couple of ingredients.

Tomato Base: The aromatic tomato base forms the heart of this dish. Using canned peeled tomatoes provides convenience, but you can opt for fresh tomatoes or diced, canned tomatoes if you prefer. Grated onion, fresh parsley, olive oil, curcuma, paprika, and salt add depth and complexity to the sauce and are essential for the Moroccan flavor. You can replace curcuma with a bit of safran is you have it at hand.
Kefta aka Tofu Meatballs: The star of this vegan version is the tofu-based meatballs. Blended tofu, bread crumbs, walnuts garlic, and a blend of herbs and spices create a doughy-like texture that resembles traditional kefta. The result is a protein-packed and flavorful alternative that beautifully mimics the original meatballs. We recommend using extra firm tofu to get the right texture. Walnuts add texture, but if you are allergic you can leave them out.

Still deciding? You might also like this easy Moroccan lentil soup, Moroccan avocado milkshake or this eggplant parmesan

Rich and Hearty Simplified Moroccan Lentil Soup (Harira)

Indulgent Moroccan Avocado Milkshake (ZaaZaa)

Easy Eggplant Parmesan (mouthwatering!)

Moroccan tajines are best enjoyed with warm bread, and this vegan kefta tajine is no exception

Serve the Vegan Tajine Kefta hot, garnished with fresh parsley, and accompanied by warm Moroccan bread. You can also made a delicious kefta sandwich from this. This vegan twist on a classic Moroccan dish celebrates the richness of traditional flavors with plant-based ingredients that are both wholesome and nourishing. It’s a delightful option for vegans and non-vegans alike, and a wonderful addition to your culinary repertoire.

Print Recipe