Beef Shawarma Plate
Beef shawarma served with a choice of side.
Nutrition Facts
* The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Flame & Skewers
Shawarma, deriving from the Turkish word 'çevirme' meaning 'turning', has roots in the Ottoman Empire's doner kebab. It spread throughout the Middle East and beyond, evolving with regional culinary traditions.
Beef Shawarma is a popular street food and restaurant dish, deeply ingrained in Middle Eastern culture. It's often associated with communal dining and celebration.
Social Gathering Food
Shawarma is frequently enjoyed in casual settings, during gatherings with friends and family. It's a readily available and satisfying meal option for sharing.
Street Food Staple
Shawarma stands are ubiquitous in many Middle Eastern cities, making it a readily accessible and affordable meal for people on the go.
Regional Variations
While the core concept remains consistent, variations exist in the specific spice blends used for the marinade and the accompanying sauces and salads depending on the region or the chef's preference. For example, some may use amba sauce (pickled mango) for extra sweetness.
The Beef Shawarma Plate boasts a rich and complex flavor profile, characterized by savory marinated beef, earthy spices, creamy hummus, tangy tahini, and fresh salad components.
The beef itself is intensely flavored through a marinade typically consisting of spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, garlic, cinnamon, and sometimes cardamom, cloves, and allspice, along with lemon juice or vinegar. The marinade tenderizes the meat and infuses it with depth. The rice offers a neutral base, while the hummus provides a creamy, nutty counterpoint. Tahini sauce, made from ground sesame seeds, adds a slightly bitter, rich, and nutty dimension. The salad provides a refreshing contrast with crisp vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and parsley, often dressed with lemon juice and olive oil.
Marinating Time
Allow ample marinating time (ideally overnight or at least several hours) for the beef to fully absorb the flavors and tenderize.
Beef Selection
Use a cut of beef that is well-suited for slow cooking and has good marbling, such as sirloin tip or top round. This will ensure the meat stays tender and flavorful during the cooking process.
Hummus Quality
Homemade hummus is always preferable for the freshest flavor. Alternatively, choose a high-quality store-bought variety with a smooth, creamy texture.
Tahini Consistency
Adjust the consistency of the tahini sauce by adding water and lemon juice until it reaches a drizzling consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Rice Selection
Basmati or Jasmine rice, known for their distinct aromas and fluffy textures, are excellent choices for complementing the shawarma.
Explore additional Shawarma dishes and restaurants
Explore ShawarmaDiscover top dining spots and culinary experiences in Bakersfield.
Explore BakersfieldLearn more about the food culture, restaurant scene, and culinary heritage of United States.
Explore United States