Ingredients
1 ½ lbs (700g) boneless chicken thighs or beef (thinly sliced)
1 cup plain yogurt
3 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
1 tsp ground turmeric
1 tsp ground paprika
½ tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp ground black pepper
Salt to taste
2 cloves garlic, minced
4-6 pita breads or flatbreads
Fresh vegetables: cucumber, tomato, red onion, lettuce
Pickles (optional)
Tahini sauce or garlic sauce (recipe included below)
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp salt
¼ cup cold water
Execution
Prepare the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, cinnamon, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, minced garlic, and salt. Mix well until all the spices are combined.
Marinate the Meat:
Add the thinly sliced chicken or beef to the marinade, ensuring the meat is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (for the best flavor, marinate for up to 24 hours).
Cook the Shawarma:
-Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Add the marinated meat and cook for about 8-10 minutes per side, until golden and fully cooked. For an authentic charred flavor, you can finish the meat in the oven under the broiler for 5 minutes on high.
-Once cooked, slice the meat thinly and set aside.
Make the Garlic Sauce (Toum):
In a blender or food processor, combine the minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Slowly add the olive oil while blending on low speed, followed by the cold water, until you get a thick, creamy sauce. Set aside for serving.
Assemble the Shawarma Wraps:
Warm the pita or flatbreads in a pan or oven. Spread a generous amount of garlic sauce (or tahini) on the bread. Add the sliced shawarma meat, fresh cucumber, tomato, red onion, and lettuce. Top with pickles, if desired.
Serve:
Fold the bread around the fillings and serve the shawarma wraps immediately. Shawarma is best enjoyed hot and fresh, but the marinated meat can be stored and reheated for another meal.
Additional tips
- Vegetarian Shawarma: Swap the meat for grilled vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers or use chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
- Different Proteins: Lamb is another great option for shawarma, adding an even deeper flavor profile. You can also use beef for a heartier meal.
- Add Spices: Customize the marinade by adding cayenne for a spicier kick or sumac for a citrusy tang.
- Serve with Sides: Serve shawarma with hummus, tabbouleh, or a simple cucumber salad for a more complete meal.
