Beef Shawarma
Marinated beef cooked on a rotating spit and shaved.
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.
Prince Lebanese Grill
Shawarma's origins trace back to the Ottoman Empire and the Doner Kebab, a similar dish of meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie. Influences from various cultures within the empire likely contributed to its evolution into the distinct dish we know today.
Beef Shawarma is a popular street food and fast food option, widely enjoyed across the Middle East, the Mediterranean, and around the world. It represents a communal eating experience, often shared among friends and family.
Street Food Staple
Shawarma is a ubiquitous street food, readily available from food stalls and trucks, offering a quick and satisfying meal.
Social Gathering Food
Sharing a shawarma wrap is a common social activity, reflecting the hospitality and communal dining culture of the region.
Regional Variations
While the core components remain similar, regional variations exist in the types of meat used, the spices in the marinade, and the accompanying sauces and toppings.
Beef Shawarma is characterized by a savory, smoky, and slightly spicy flavor profile, complemented by tangy sauces and fresh vegetables.
The marinated beef, typically using cuts like sirloin or round, is infused with spices such as cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, garlic, and cinnamon. The slow-roasting on the spit creates a caramelized exterior while keeping the interior juicy. The accompanying sauces, often tahini-based or yogurt-based, provide a creamy and tangy counterpoint to the rich beef. Pickled vegetables and fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro add brightness and acidity.
Marinade is Key
Allow the beef to marinate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.
Don't Overcook
Be careful not to overcook the shawarma if you are preparing it yourself. It should be lightly charred and brown outside, but still tender and juicy inside.
Warm the Pita
Warm the pita bread before assembling the shawarma wrap to make it more pliable and enhance the overall texture.
Layer the Ingredients
Layer the ingredients carefully, starting with a base of sauce, followed by the meat, vegetables, and a final drizzle of sauce to ensure a balanced flavor in every bite.
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