The Best Homemade Shawarma Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Making homemade shawarma is easier than you think, and it’s packed with flavor that will transport you straight to the streets of the Middle East. What’s not to love?
- Quick and easy: With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip this up faster than driving to a restaurant.
- Customizable: Make it your own by adding your favorite veggies, sauces, or spices to suit your taste.
- Family favorite: It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.
Recipe
Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern dish featuring marinated meat cooked on a rotisserie and served in pita bread with a variety of toppings and sauces. This homemade version simplifies the process while delivering authentic flavors.
Ingredients
- 500g chicken breast or thigh (or lamb/beef), thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 4 pita breads
- Toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, pickles, tahini sauce, or garlic sauce
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to make the marinade.
- Add the sliced meat to the marinade, ensuring it’s well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).
- Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated meat for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and slightly charred.
- Warm the pita bread in a skillet or oven.
- Assemble the shawarma by placing cooked meat on the pita bread and adding desired toppings. Drizzle with tahini or garlic sauce.
- Fold or roll the pita bread and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, substitute meat with grilled halloumi or falafel.
- Adjust spice levels to suit your taste preferences.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Skillet or grill pan
- Knife and cutting board
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cuisine
Middle Eastern
Serving
Serves 4
Nutrition
Homemade Shawarma offers a delicious blend of flavors while providing essential nutrients. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade shawarma with creamy hummus and a tangy garlic yogurt sauce for extra flavor. A simple salad of chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, and parsley adds a fresh, crunchy side that balances the dish. Don’t forget warm pita bread or fluffy rice to make the meal complete!
Side Dishes
When you’re whipping up a flavorful shawarma, it’s all about the balance of textures and tastes, so picking the right sides can really elevate the meal. I love pairing mine with grilled vegetables—zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant add a smoky sweetness that complements the spices. Fresh salads like tabbouleh or a simple cucumber-tomato mix bring a crisp, invigorating contrast. Don’t forget warm pita bread for scooping up every last bite! These sides keep things light but satisfying, letting the shawarma shine. Trust me, once you try this combo, you’ll never go back to plain rice again.
Sauces and Dips
Though shawarma’s bold spices and tender meat steal the show, the right sauces and dips can take it from great to unforgettable. I love pairing mine with spicy tahini, a creamy blend of tahini, lemon, and a kick of chili—it’s bold but balanced. For something cooler, garlic yogurt is my go-to, with its tangy, garlicky punch that cuts through the richness. Don’t forget a drizzle of zesty toum or a smoky harissa for extra depth. These sauces aren’t just extras—they’re what make each bite sing. Trust me, you’ll want to slather them on everything!
