Classic Shawarma Recipe

Introduction

Shawarma, a beloved street food, has its roots in Middle Eastern cuisine. Known for its rich flavors and succulent meat, shawarma is typically cooked on a rotating spit and served with a variety of accompaniments. This recipe brings the authentic taste of shawarma to your kitchen, using easily accessible ingredients and a simple cooking process.

Ingredients

• 500g of chicken thighs, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 4-6 pita breads
• Fresh vegetables: lettuce, tomato, cucumber (sliced)
• Tahini sauce or garlic yogurt sauce

Process

1. Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices. Add chicken slices and coat well. Marinate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
2. Cooking: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until fully cooked and slightly charred.
3. Prepare Veggies & Sauces: While the chicken is cooking, prepare your vegetables and sauce.
4. Assemble Shawarma: Warm the pita bread. On each pita, place a portion of the cooked chicken, followed by the sliced vegetables.
5. Add Sauces: Drizzle with tahini sauce or garlic yogurt sauce.

Serving Recommendation

Serve the shawarma immediately while it's warm. You can also offer additional toppings like pickled vegetables or hot sauce for an extra kick. Shawarma pairs wonderfully with a side of hummus or tabbouleh for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This classic shawarma recipe brings the essence of Middle Eastern street food into your home. It's a perfect blend of savory spices, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables, all wrapped in a soft pita. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, shawarma is sure to delight everyone at the table.