is a popular Middle Eastern street food, featuring marinated meat (often chicken or beef) that’s cooked on a rotating spit, but it can also be made at home in a pan or oven. The meat is tender, juicy, and infused with a blend of spices and herbs, served in pita or flatbread with vegetables and sauce.
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
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1 lb (450g) chicken thighs or beef strips (or a mix)
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tbsp ground cumin
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1 tbsp ground paprika
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1 tbsp ground turmeric
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1 tbsp ground coriander
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
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1 tsp ground allspice
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1 tsp ground cardamom
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1/2 tsp ground black pepper
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1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
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3 tbsp olive oil
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3 tbsp plain yogurt
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2 tbsp lemon juice
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1 tbsp vinegar
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Salt to taste
For the Shawarma:
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4 pita or flatbread
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Fresh vegetables (tomato, cucumber, onions, lettuce)
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Garlic sauce or tahini sauce (optional)
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Pickles (optional)
Execution
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If using beef, opt for tender cuts like flank steak or sirloin for best results.
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For a crispy finish, broil the marinated chicken or beef to achieve that classic shawarma texture.
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Serve with a side of fries for a truly authentic street-food experience.
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You can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top before serving for a tangy kick.
-
If using beef, opt for tender cuts like flank steak or sirloin for best results.
-
For a crispy finish, broil the marinated chicken or beef to achieve that classic shawarma texture.
-
Serve with a side of fries for a truly authentic street-food experience.
-
You can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top before serving for a tangy kick.
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Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, allspice, cardamom, black pepper, cayenne pepper, olive oil, yogurt, lemon juice, vinegar, and salt. -
Marinate the Meat:
Add the chicken or beef to the marinade and toss until evenly coated. Refrigerate covered for 2 hours minimum—for optimal taste, leave it overnight. -
Cook the Meat:
Heat a pan or grill over medium-high heat. Add the marinated meat and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side until the chicken is cooked through and the beef is seared to your desired doneness. Alternatively, you can broil the meat for a more authentic shawarma texture. -
Prepare the Shawarma:
Warm the pita or flatbread. Slice the cooked meat thinly and place it on the bread. Add your choice of fresh vegetables and drizzle with garlic sauce or tahini sauce. Add pickles for an extra crunch, if desired. -
Serve:
Roll up the bread and serve your shawarma warm, enjoying it with your favorite sides like fries or salad.
Additional tips
-
If using beef, opt for tender cuts like flank steak or sirloin for best results.
-
For a crispy finish, broil the marinated chicken or beef to achieve that classic shawarma texture.
-
Serve with a side of fries for a truly authentic street-food experience.
-
You can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top before serving for a tangy kick.
