Shawarma

shawarma

Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern dish that consists of thinly sliced meat that is marinated in various spices and then cooked on a spit. It’s enjoyed all over the world, and here in Israel, it’s a classic street food that’s loved by everyone. The taste of Israeli shawarma is truly something special, and it’s no surprise that it’s become a staple of the local cuisine.

The history of shawarma dates back to the Ottoman Empire when the dish was first introduced to the region. Over time, it evolved and changed, and today there are countless variations of the classic recipe. Shawarma is typically made with either chicken or lamb, although beef and turkey are also used in some versions.

Preparing Israeli shawarma requires a little bit of patience and some creativity in the kitchen, but the end result is absolutely worth it. The marinade is key to the success of any shawarma recipe, and in Israeli shawarma, it’s no different. A good marinade should be acidic, aromatic, and full of flavor. It helps to break down the muscle fibers of the meat, making it more tender and juicy.

One of the essential ingredients in an Israeli shawarma marinade is yogurt, which creates a creamy and tangy flavor. Other ingredients include lemon juice, olive oil, and a variety of spices such as cumin, coriander, paprika, and garlic. The marinated meat is then piled onto a spit and roasted slowly until the edges are crispy and the inside is tender.

Making your own Israeli shawarma at home is surprisingly easy, and the results are sure to impress your friends and family. You can use either chicken or lamb as the base, and the marinade can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a spicier shawarma, you can add some red pepper flakes or chili powder to the marinade.

Once the meat is cooked, it’s time to assemble the shawarma. Traditionally, it’s served wrapped in apita breadalongside a variety of accompaniments such as pickles, tomatoes, and hummus. Some people also like to add French fries or atahinisauce to take it to the next level.

Overall, Israeli shawarma is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s easy to make at home. Whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying it as a quick weeknight dinner, it’s sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to enjoy a taste of the Middle East in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb chicken or beef (thinly sliced)
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp allspice
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 4 garlic cloves (minced)
  • 1 onion (thinly sliced)
  • 4 pita breads
  • Tomatoes, lettuce, and cucumber (sliced)

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, allspice, turmeric, and minced garlic. Mix well.
  2. Add the thinly sliced chicken or beef to the bowl, and coat well in the marinade. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), or you can use a grill.
  4. In a skillet, sauté the thinly sliced onion until lightly browned.
  5. Add the marinated chicken or beef to the skillet and cook until it’s fully cooked through.
  6. Place the pita breads in the oven or grill for 1 minute to warm it up.
  7. To assemble the shawarma, lay apita breadon a flat surface, add some chicken or beef, and top it off with the sautéed onions, and sliced tomatoes, lettuce, and cucumbers.
  8. Roll up thepita breadtightly to form a wrap.
  9. Cut the shawarma wrap in half and serve. Enjoy your delicious Israeli shawarma!