Homemade Shawarma Recipe: Deliciously Tender and Full of Flavor

Shawarma is a delectable Middle Eastern dish celebrated for its tender, marinated meat and rich array of spices. This recipe guides you through creating authentic shawarma at home, starting with a marinade of olive oil, yogurt, garlic,

and a blend of aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, and paprika. The marinated meat—typically chicken, beef, or lamb—is baked until juicy and slightly charred. Once cooked, it is sliced into thin strips and served in warm pita or flatbreads, accompanied by fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions, along with flavorful sauces such as tahini or garlic sauce. This dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also brings the vibrant flavors of the Middle East to your table. Perfect for casual meals or gatherings, homemade shawarma offers a satisfying and delightful culinary experience that can be enjoyed by all. Wrap it up and savor the deliciousness!

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Ingredients

For the Shawarma Marinade:

• 500g boneless chicken thighs or beef/lamb, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons plain yogurt
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon

For Serving:

• Pita bread or flatbreads
• Sliced tomatoes
• Sliced cucumbers
• Thinly sliced red onions
• Fresh parsley or mint
• Tahini sauce, garlic sauce, or yogurt sauce

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Instructions

1. Marinate the Meat:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, yogurt, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a fragrant marinade.
• Add the sliced meat to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

2. Cook the Meat:

• Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). If using a grill, preheat it as well.
• Spread the marinated meat evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through and slightly charred on the edges. If grilling, cook until the meat is nicely charred and fully cooked, turning occasionally.

3. Prepare the Shawarma:

• Once cooked, remove the meat from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice it into thin strips for easy serving.

4. Assemble the Shawarma:

• Warm the pita bread or flatbreads. Layer the sliced shawarma meat in the center, followed by fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and herbs.
• Drizzle with your choice of tahini sauce, garlic sauce, or yogurt sauce for added flavor.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

• Roll or fold the pita around the fillings, securing the delicious contents. Serve immediately, accompanied by extra sauces and fresh salad on the side.

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Tips for Perfect Shawarma

• Meat Choice: Chicken thighs offer juiciness, while beef or lamb provides a rich flavor. Choose according to your preference.
• Marination Time: Allowing the meat to marinate overnight enhances the flavors significantly.
• Grilling Option: For an authentic taste, cooking on a grill adds a delightful smoky flavor.

Recipe videos

Shawarma videos:

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