Description
Shawarma is a flavorful Middle Eastern dish made with thinly sliced marinated meat that is roasted or grilled and served in warm flatbread with fresh vegetables and creamy garlic or tahini sauce. This homemade version delivers tender, spiced meat packed with bold, aromatic flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900 g) boneless skinless chicken thighs (or beef/lamb)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 4–6 pita breads or flatbreads
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1/2 cup sliced cucumbers
- 1/4 cup sliced red onions
- 1/2 cup garlic sauce or tahini sauce
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, black pepper, and salt.
- Add the chicken (or chosen meat) and coat thoroughly. Cover and marinate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Cook the marinated meat for 25–30 minutes (oven) or 6–8 minutes per side (grill) until fully cooked and slightly charred.
- Allow meat to rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.
- Warm pita or flatbread.
- Fill bread with sliced meat, lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and drizzle with garlic or tahini sauce.
- Wrap tightly and serve immediately.
Notes
- Chicken thighs stay juicier than chicken breast.
- For authentic flavor, grill the meat for slight charring.
- Add pickled turnips or pickles for extra tang.
- Leftover meat can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilled
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern