Beef Shawarma Recipe

Introduction

Beef Shawarma is a beloved dish that hails from the Middle East, offering a delicious and hearty combination of tender beef, aromatic spices, and fresh toppings. Shawarma, which is traditionally made by layering seasoned meat on a vertical rotisserie, has evolved into a popular street food worldwide, with many variations in how it’s served and prepared. Whether enjoyed in a pita, flatbread, or on a plate with rice and vegetables, the key to a great Beef Shawarma is the perfectly seasoned meat and the balance of textures and flavors.

This recipe allows you to recreate this iconic dish at home with easy-to-follow instructions. While making Beef Shawarma at home may not involve the traditional rotisserie, you can still achieve a delicious result using your stove, oven, or grill. The result is just as flavorful, with juicy beef and an irresistible combination of spices and toppings that make this dish a fan favorite. Read on to learn how to make your very own Beef Shawarma that will transport your tastebuds straight to the bustling streets of the Middle East.

Why You’ll Love Beef Shawarma

• Flavorful Beef: The beef in Shawarma is marinated with a mix of fragrant spices, tenderizing the meat while imparting rich flavors. The combination of garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, and turmeric creates a deep, savory taste that is balanced by the acidity of lemon juice.
• Customizable: Beef Shawarma is highly versatile. You can add your favorite toppings such as fresh vegetables, pickles, tahini, or a yogurt-based sauce to make the sandwich exactly how you like it.
• Easy to Make: While authentic Shawarma is cooked on a rotisserie, this recipe uses an accessible method that still results in tender, juicy beef with that signature Shawarma flavor. It’s perfect for home cooks who want to recreate this classic dish without specialized equipment.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Beef Shawarma is great for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store it in the fridge for several days, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or lunch throughout the week.
• Great for Gatherings: Whether served as a sandwich, wrap, or as part of a mezze platter, Beef Shawarma is a crowd-pleasing dish that is sure to impress at gatherings, cookouts, or family dinners.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 2 hours (includes marinating time)
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes (plus 1 hour for marinating)
• Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 500-600 calories (depending on toppings and serving size)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 500-600 kcal
• Fat: 20-30g
• Carbohydrates: 30-40g
• Protein: 40-45g
• Fiber: 3-5g
• Sugar: 5-8g

Ingredients

For the Beef Shawarma:

• 1 lb beef (flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye, thinly sliced against the grain)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons plain yogurt
• Salt to taste

For Serving:

• Pita bread, flatbread, or wraps (4 pieces)
• Fresh vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce)
• Pickled cucumbers or turnips (optional)
• Tahini sauce or garlic yogurt sauce (optional)

Special Equipment

While you don’t need a rotisserie to make Beef Shawarma at home, a few key kitchen tools will help you achieve the best results:

1. Sharp Knife: For slicing the beef thinly against the grain. This is crucial for getting tender pieces of meat in each bite.
2. Mixing Bowl: To combine the marinade ingredients and toss the beef to coat it thoroughly.
3. Large Skillet or Grill Pan: For cooking the beef. A heavy-duty skillet, such as cast iron, will give you the best sear and even cooking.
4. Tongs or Spatula: To handle the beef as it cooks, ensuring even browning and avoiding overcooking.
5. Grater or Zester: To zest the lemon, which will add a fresh, zesty kick to the marinade.
6. Serving Platter or Tray: For serving your Beef Shawarma alongside your choice of toppings and condiments.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef

Start by thinly slicing the beef across the grain. The thinner the slices, the more tender and juicy they will be once cooked. If necessary, freeze the beef for about 15-20 minutes to make slicing easier.

2. Make the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, allspice, black pepper, and cardamom. Add the lemon juice and yogurt to the mixture, along with a pinch of salt. Stir well to combine, creating a fragrant, spiced marinade.

3. Marinate the Beef

Add the sliced beef to the marinade, making sure all the pieces are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. If you have more time, marinate the beef for up to 4 hours for a deeper flavor. The longer the beef marinates, the more tender and flavorful it will become.

4. Cook the Beef

Once the beef has marinated, heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. If using a skillet, add a tablespoon of olive oil to the pan and allow it to heat up.

Add the marinated beef to the hot skillet in batches, ensuring that the pieces are spread out in a single layer. This helps them sear and cook evenly. Cook the beef for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked through. You want the beef to be tender and slightly crispy on the edges but still juicy inside.

5. Prepare the Toppings and Sauces

While the beef is cooking, prepare your toppings. Slice the tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce. You can also prepare pickled cucumbers or turnips for added tanginess. If you’re making a sauce, mix together plain yogurt with garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt for a simple garlic yogurt sauce. Alternatively, drizzle tahini sauce over the shawarma for a richer, nutty flavor.

6. Assemble the Shawarma

Once the beef is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Warm your pita bread, flatbreads, or wraps in the same skillet for a few seconds to make them pliable.

To assemble the Beef Shawarma, place a few spoonfuls of the cooked beef onto the center of each piece of bread. Add your desired toppings, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, and pickles. Drizzle with your choice of tahini sauce or garlic yogurt sauce, and fold the bread to create a wrap or sandwich.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Beef Shawarma immediately while it’s hot, with your favorite side dishes such as hummus, tabbouleh, or French fries. The combination of warm beef, fresh vegetables, and creamy sauce creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures.

Tips for Perfect Beef Shawarma

• Slice the Beef Thinly: Thinly sliced beef is essential for achieving that tender, juicy texture in each bite. If you don’t have a sharp knife, you can partially freeze the beef to make slicing easier.
• Marinate for Maximum Flavor: The longer the beef marinates, the more flavorful it will become. While 1 hour is the minimum, marinating the beef for 2-4 hours is ideal for a more intense flavor.
• Sear the Beef: Searing the beef in a hot pan or grill pan is key to achieving a flavorful crust while keeping the inside tender. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure that the beef sears properly.
• Customizable Toppings: Feel free to customize your Beef Shawarma with your favorite toppings. Consider adding red onions, pickled vegetables, or even a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
• Make Your Own Sauces: Garlic yogurt sauce or tahini sauce are traditional accompaniments for Beef Shawarma. However, you can experiment with your favorite sauces, such as spicy harissa or a lemony tahini dressing, to suit your taste.

Variations of Beef Shawarma

• Chicken Shawarma: For a lighter version, substitute the beef with boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Chicken will cook faster and is equally delicious when marinated in the same spiced mixture.
• Lamb Shawarma: Lamb adds a rich, earthy flavor to Shawarma. It’s perfect for those who love the distinctive taste of lamb and want to experience an authentic Middle Eastern variation.
• Shawarma Bowl: If you prefer not to eat it as a sandwich or wrap, consider turning your Beef Shawarma into a rice bowl. Layer the cooked beef over a bed of basmati rice, and top with your favorite vegetables, pickles, and sauces for a satisfying meal.
• Vegetarian Shawarma: For a vegetarian option, use grilled vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers instead of beef. Add some chickpeas for protein, and serve with a creamy tahini sauce.

Storage and Shelf Life

Beef Shawarma is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The beef will continue to absorb the flavors of the marinade, making it even tastier the next day. To reheat, warm the beef in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked beef. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the beef in the fridge overnight and heat it in a skillet.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Beef Shawarma

Beef Shawarma pairs well with a variety of sides, making it a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some ideas:

• Hummus: Serve a creamy and smooth hummus alongside your Beef Shawarma for a classic Middle Eastern pairing.
• Tabbouleh: A refreshing salad made with bulgur, parsley, tomatoes, and lemon juice complements the rich flavors of the Shawarma.
• Rice Pilaf: Serve your Beef Shawarma with a fragrant rice pilaf for a filling and flavorful side dish.
• French Fries: Crispy fries, seasoned with salt and pepper, are a popular side to enjoy with Shawarma. You can dip them in the same sauce you use for the sandwich.
• Grilled Vegetables: Grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, and peppers, are a great addition to your meal, providing a smoky flavor that pairs well with the beef.

Print

Conclusion

Beef Shawarma is a flavorful and versatile dish that brings the bold flavors of the Middle East to your kitchen. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or serving it at a party, this recipe is sure to impress with its tender, spiced beef, fresh toppings, and creamy sauces. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality Beef Shawarma at home.