Shawarma Plate
Your choice of shawarma served on a plate with rice, salad, and sauces.
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.
Shawarmaji
Shawarma evolved from the Turkish döner kebab, which was documented in the Ottoman Empire as early as the 18th century. The vertical spit roasting method was perfected in the 19th century in Bursa, Turkey. Middle Eastern migrants then adapted and popularized the dish in various forms throughout the Levant and beyond.
Shawarma holds significant cultural importance in the Middle East and beyond, representing hospitality, communal dining, and culinary heritage. It's a popular street food, casual meal, and festive dish often shared among friends and family.
Street Food Staple
Shawarma is a ubiquitous street food found throughout the Middle East, Europe, and increasingly in North America and other parts of the world. It's a quick, affordable, and satisfying meal enjoyed by people from all walks of life.
Social Gathering Food
Shawarma platters are often served at gatherings and celebrations, symbolizing generosity and sharing. The communal nature of the dish encourages interaction and fosters a sense of community.
Regional Variations
While the core concept remains the same, shawarma variations exist across different regions, reflecting local tastes and ingredients. These variations might include different types of meat, spice blends, sauces, and accompanying sides.
The Shawarma Plate offers a complex and savory flavor profile, combining the richness of marinated meat, the freshness of vegetables, the tanginess of sauces, and the starchiness of rice or other grains.
The primary flavor comes from the shawarma meat itself, which is typically lamb, chicken, beef, or a mixture. The meat is marinated in a blend of spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, garlic, and cinnamon, giving it a warm and aromatic flavor. The accompanying salad often features parsley, tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions, providing a refreshing contrast. Tahini sauce adds a nutty and creamy element, while garlic sauce contributes a pungent and savory note. Pickled vegetables, like turnips or cucumbers, introduce a tangy and acidic component. The rice, usually basmati, offers a neutral base to balance the bolder flavors.
Meat Preparation
Marinate the meat for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to fully penetrate. Consider using a combination of spices, including cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, garlic powder, and a touch of cinnamon or cardamom.
Sauce Selection
Experiment with different sauces to find your favorite combination. Tahini sauce, garlic sauce (toum), and a spicy red pepper sauce are all popular choices. A simple lemon-tahini dressing can also be refreshing.
Vegetable Freshness
Use fresh, high-quality vegetables for the salad. Finely chop the vegetables and dress them lightly with lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt.
Rice Choice
Basmati rice is a common and excellent choice because its long grains are fluffy and absorb sauces nicely. Yellow rice with turmeric is also a good pairing.
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