Shawarma

Deutsch: Schawarma / Español: Shawarma / Português: Shawarma / Français: Shawarma / Italiano: Shawarma

Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern dish consisting of thinly sliced marinated meat, traditionally cooked on a vertical rotisserie. The meat—typically lamb, beef, chicken, or turkey—is shaved off in thin strips and served in a wrap or pita bread, along with fresh vegetables, tahini, hummus, garlic sauce, and pickles. Shawarma is known for its savoury, spiced flavour and tender texture, making it a beloved street food worldwide.

Description

Shawarma has roots in the Ottoman Empire and is related to other spit-roasted dishes like Greek gyros and Turkish döner kebab. What makes shawarma unique is its distinct spice blend, which often includes cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, garlic, and cinnamon. The marinated meat is slowly cooked on a rotating spit, which allows it to stay juicy while developing a crispy exterior.

Shawarma is typically served as:

• Wraps or Sandwiches: Rolled in flatbread with sauces and fresh vegetables.
• Plates or Bowls: Served on a plate with rice, salad, and a side of tahini or garlic sauce.
• Toppings: Shawarma meat can also be used to top salads, pizzas, or rice bowls.

Recipe

Chicken Shawarma Wraps

Ingredients:

For the chicken marinade:

• 500 g (1 lb) boneless chicken thighs
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the wraps:

• 4 pita breads or flatbreads
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup sliced cucumber
• 1 cup chopped tomatoes
• ½ cup pickled turnips (optional)
• ½ cup tahini or garlic sauce

Instructions:

1. Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices. Add the chicken and coat well. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or overnight for best results).
2. Cook the chicken: Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.
3. Assemble the wraps: Warm the pita bread and spread it with tahini or garlic sauce. Add lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, and pickled turnips. Top with the sliced chicken.
4. Roll the wrap: Fold the bottom of the pita, then roll it tightly. Serve warm.

Application Areas

• Street Food: Shawarma is a common street food in the Middle East, North Africa, and beyond.
• Fast Food: Many fast-casual restaurants worldwide offer shawarma as a quick, customisable meal.
• Home Cooking: Shawarma can be easily recreated at home using a skillet or grill.
• Catering and Events: Shawarma wraps and plates are a popular option for parties and gatherings.

Summary

Shawarma is a beloved dish with deep cultural roots and global popularity. Known for its bold flavours and tender meat, it can be served in a variety of ways, from wraps to plates. Chicken shawarma, with its fragrant spices and juicy texture, is one of the most popular versions, bringing a taste of the Middle East to kitchens around the world.

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