Homemade Shawarma Recipe: A Delicious Middle Eastern Delight

Shawarma is a beloved Middle Eastern dish known for its rich, bold flavors and tender, marinated meat. Traditionally cooked on a vertical rotisserie, this dish can easily be recreated at home using a grill or stovetop. Whether you prefer chicken, beef, or lamb, this homemade shawarma recipe will give you restaurant-quality results with simple ingredients. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Shawarma Recipe

• Easy to make with simple ingredients
• Perfectly spiced and juicy meat
• Can be served in wraps, sandwiches, or platters
• Healthier than takeout and fully customizable

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Shawarma Marinade

• 500g chicken thighs or beef/lamb (sliced into thin strips)
• 3 tablespoons plain yogurt
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon turmeric
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional for spice)

For the Garlic Sauce (Toum)

• ½ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Wrap and Toppings

• Pita bread or flatbread
• Sliced cucumbers
• Sliced tomatoes
• Shredded lettuce
• Pickles
• Onion slices
• Fresh parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Meat

1. In a large bowl, mix the yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and all the spices.
2. Add the sliced chicken, beef, or lamb and coat well in the marinade.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best flavor).

Step 2: Cook the Shawarma

On a Stovetop:

1. Heat a pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add a little oil and cook the marinated meat for 6–8 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.

On a Grill:

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. Place the marinated meat on skewers and grill for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise (or yogurt), minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and salt.
2. Mix well until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Shawarma Wrap

1. Warm the pita or flatbread on a pan for a few seconds.
2. Spread a layer of garlic sauce.
3. Add the cooked shawarma meat.
4. Top with cucumbers, tomatoes, lettuce, pickles, onions, and fresh parsley.
5. Roll the wrap tightly and serve!

Serving Suggestions

• Shawarma Plate: Serve with rice, hummus, and a side salad.
• Shawarma Wrap: Wrap it in pita bread for an authentic street food experience.
• Shawarma Bowl: Serve over a bed of lettuce or grains for a healthy, low-carb option.

Tips for the Best Homemade Shawarma

• Marinate overnight for the most flavorful and tender meat.
• Use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast for juicier shawarma.
• Toast the pita before serving for a better texture.
• Adjust spices and toppings to match your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Homemade shawarma is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that brings the flavors of the Middle East to your kitchen. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or a family gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it today and let us know how it turned out!