Craving the rich flavors of shawarma but can’t find a local spot that does it just right? Why not bring the culinary adventure into your kitchen? Making shawarma might seem daunting, but with the right spices, you can enjoy this Middle Eastern favorite without leaving your house.
Ingredients:
Spice Mix:
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1/2 tablespoon paprika
- 1/2 tablespoon turmeric
- 1/2 tablespoon ground cloves
- 1/2 tablespoon cayenne pepper (adjust based on your heat preference)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Shawarma:
- 1 pound chicken thighs (or beef/lamb if preferred), thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- Yogurt or tahini sauce, for serving
- Fresh vegetables (tomato, cucumber, lettuce) for garnish
- Pita bread, for serving
Instructions:
- Combine cumin, coriander, garlic powder, paprika, turmeric, ground cloves, cayenne, salt, and pepper for shawarma flavor.
- Marinate chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spice mix. Refrigerate the meat for 1 hour or overnight.
- Cook the chicken in a pan until seared, adding onions to caramelize.
- Warm pita, spread with yogurt or tahini, add meat, onions, veggies, and extra spice.
- Serve with hummus or salad for a complete meal.
