Introduction
Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern street food featuring marinated meat, typically lamb, chicken, or beef, cooked on a vertical rotisserie. It’s served in a warm pita or flatbread with fresh vegetables and a variety of sauces. Shawarma offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a beloved dish worldwide.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs, beef, or lamb, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 cup plain yogurt (for marinating)
- Pita bread or flatbreads
- Fresh vegetables (lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions)
- Pickles (optional)
- Tahini sauce or garlic sauce
Instructions
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Marinate the meat:
- In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, olive oil, lemon juice, and yogurt.
- Add the sliced meat, ensuring it's well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours (or overnight for deeper flavor).
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Cook the meat:
- Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Remove the meat from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off.
- Cook the meat in batches for about 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and nicely browned. If using a vertical rotisserie, stack the marinated meat tightly and cook until crispy.
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Prepare the vegetables:
- While the meat cooks, wash and chop the fresh vegetables for serving. Slice tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions, and prepare any additional toppings like pickles.
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Assemble the shawarma:
- Warm the pita or flatbreads on the grill for a few seconds.
- Place a portion of the cooked meat in the center of each pita. Top with fresh vegetables and drizzle with tahini or garlic sauce.
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Serve:
- Wrap the pita around the filling, securing it with parchment paper or foil if desired. Serve immediately.
Health Notes
- Shawarma can be high in sodium due to marinades and sauces. Consider making your own sauces and controlling the salt in the marinade.
- Opt for whole grain pita or flatbreads for added fiber and nutrients.
Enjoying the Dish
- Shawarma is best enjoyed fresh and warm. Pair it with a side of tabbouleh or hummus for a complete meal.
Tips
- Marination time: The longer you marinate the meat, the more flavorful and tender it will be.
- Grilling method: If you have a grill pan, use it for added char and smoky flavor.
- Vegetable options: Feel free to add grilled vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor.
- Homemade sauces: Experiment with homemade garlic sauce or tzatziki for a fresh twist.
