Easy Homemade Shawarma: A Tasty Middle Eastern Dish

Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern dish that has become a global favorite. It’s a type of wrap that’s filled with juicy and flavorful meat, vegetables, and sauces, and then rolled up tightly in a pita bread. This dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, whether for lunch or dinner. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can now make your own authentic shawarma at home.

Ingredients (for 4 portions)

• 600g chicken breast
• 1 large onion
• 3 garlic cloves
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp salt
• 4 pita breads
• 1 cup hummus
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup pickled veggies

Instructions

1. Cut the chicken into thin strips and place in a bowl.
2. Finely chop the onion and garlic and add to the bowl with the chicken.
3. Add the olive oil, lemon juice, smoked paprika, cumin, turmeric, coriander, and salt to the bowl and mix well to combine.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best results).
5. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
6. Thread the chicken onto skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 10 minutes before using to prevent burning) and grill for 5-7 minutes on each side, until cooked through and slightly charred.
7. Warm the pita bread in the oven or on the grill for a few minutes.
8. To assemble the shawarma, spread a generous amount of hummus on each pita bread, then add the grilled chicken, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and pickled veggies.
9. Roll up the pita bread tightly and serve warm.

Vegetarian/Vegan Shawarma

For a vegetarian or vegan version of shawarma, you can substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or seitan. Marinate the tofu or seitan in the same spices as the chicken, and grill until cooked through. You can also add grilled vegetables such as peppers, eggplant, and zucchini to the wrap for added flavor and nutrition.

Gluten-Free Shawarma

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pita bread or wrap the shawarma in a lettuce leaf instead of pita bread.

Conclusion

Shawarma is a delicious and healthy meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can now make your own authentic shawarma at home. Whether you’re a meat-eater or a vegetarian, this dish can be adapted to suit your tastes and dietary needs. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of the Middle East!

FAQ

What is shawarma?

Shawarma is a Middle Eastern dish made of sliced meat (usually chicken, beef, or lamb) that has been marinated and roasted on a spit. It is typically served in a wrap or pita bread with vegetables and sauces.

What type of meat is best for shawarma?

Traditionally, shawarma is made with lamb, but chicken and beef are also commonly used. The meat should be thinly sliced so that it cooks evenly and absorbs the marinade well.

Can I make shawarma without a spit?

Yes, you can make shawarma without a spit. Simply marinate the meat, slice it thinly, and cook it in a pan or on a grill.

What vegetables are typically used in shawarma?

Common vegetables used in shawarma include lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or pickles for additional flavor and texture.

What sauces are typically used in shawarma?

Common sauces used in shawarma include tahini (made from sesame seeds), garlic sauce, and hummus. You can also use hot sauce or other condiments to add more flavor.

Can I make shawarma ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the shawarma meat ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer until you are ready to use it. Simply reheat it in a pan or on a grill before serving.

Can I use a different type of bread instead of pita?

Yes, you can use a different type of bread if you prefer. Lavash or naan bread are popular alternatives to pita.

Can I use a different type of meat if I don’t eat beef, chicken, or lamb?

Yes, you can use other types of meat like pork or turkey if you prefer. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture may be different from traditional shawarma.

Can I make shawarma without meat for a vegetarian/vegan option?

Yes, you can make shawarma without meat for a vegetarian/vegan option. You can use tofu, seitan, or vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant as a substitute.

Can I adjust the level of spiciness in shawarma?

Yes, you can adjust the level of spiciness in shawarma by adding more or less hot sauce or other spices like cumin or paprika to the marinade.