Shawarma with Tahini is a mouthwatering Middle Eastern dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of food lovers around the world. This delicious meal features tender, marinated meatoften lamb, chicken, or beefslowly cooked on a vertical rotisserie, then thinly sliced and served in a warm pita or flatbread. What sets it apart is the drizzling of creamy tahini sauce, made from ground sesame seeds, which adds a rich, nutty flavor that perfectly complements the savory shawarma. The combination of spices, fresh vegetables, and tahini not only enhances the taste but also provides a delightful texture. No wonder shawarma has gained immense popularity, as it offers a convenient and flavorful option for lunch or dinner. As noted by culinary experts, “Shawarma is not just food; it’s an experience, bringing together culture and flavor in every bite.”
Shawarma with Tahini
Shawarma is a beloved Middle Eastern dish made of marinated meat that is cooked on a vertical rotisserie. This aromatic street food has a rich history, originating from the Ottoman Empire and becoming iconic in many countries such as Lebanon, Turkey, and Egypt. Shawarma is typically served in a wrap or platter style, accompanied by flavorful sauces such as tahini, which adds a creamy, nutty taste to the savory meat.
Preparation
Preparing shawarma at home can be an enjoyable cooking adventure. Below are the detailed ingredients and step-by-step instructions to create this flavorful dish along with a creamy tahini sauce.
Ingredients
| Ingredients for Shawarma | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless chicken thighs or beef/lamb | 1 kg |
| Yogurt | 1 cup |
| Garlic cloves (minced) | 4 |
| Ground cumin | 1 tsp |
| Ground coriander | 1 tsp |
| Ground paprika | 1 tsp |
| Turmeric | 1/2 tsp |
| Cinnamon | 1/2 tsp |
| Olive oil | 3 tbsp |
| Salt | to taste |
| Pita bread or flatbreads | 4-6 |
| Vegetables (tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce) | as needed |
| Pickles | as needed |
Ingredients for Tahini Sauce
| Ingredients for Tahini Sauce | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tahini | 1/2 cup |
| Garlic (minced) | 1 clove |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp |
| Water | 2-4 tbsp |
| Salt | to taste |
Steps to Prepare Shawarma
- Marinate the Meat: In a bowl, combine yogurt, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, olive oil, and salt. Add the meat to the marinade, ensuring it is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
- Cook the Meat: Preheat your grill, oven, or stovetop pan. If using an oven, preheat to 200°C (400°F). Remove the meat from the marinade, and cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) for chicken or 70°C (160°F) for beef/lamb, about 15-20 minutes on the grill, or 25-30 minutes in the oven. Allow the meat to rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Prepare the Tahini Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together tahini, minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Gradually add water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. It should be smooth and pourable.
- Assemble the Shawarma: Slice the cooked meat thinly. Warm the pita or flatbreads slightly to make them pliable. Fill each bread with sliced shawarma, topped with fresh vegetables, pickles, and a generous drizzle of tahini sauce.
- Serve: Serve the shawarma wraps immediately, along with extra tahini sauce for dipping or drizzling.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is shawarma with tahini?
Shawarma with tahini is a popular Middle Eastern dish featuring marinated meat, typically served in a wrap or pita, accompanied by a creamy tahini sauce.
What type of meat is used in shawarma?
Common meats for shawarma include chicken, beef, lamb, or a mix of these, marinated in spices and then grilled or roasted.
Is tahini vegan?
Yes, tahini is vegan as it is made from ground sesame seeds, making it a great sauce option for plant-based diets.
How can I make shawarma at home?
To make shawarma at home, marinate your chosen meat in spices, cook it until tender, and serve it in pita bread with fresh vegetables and tahini sauce.
Can I use tahini as a salad dressing?
Absolutely, tahini can be mixed with lemon juice, garlic, and water to create a delicious and creamy salad dressing.
What are the health benefits of tahini?
Tahini is rich in healthy fats, protein, and vitamins, making it a nutritious addition to meals.
Is shawarma gluten-free?
Shawarma itself is gluten-free, but it is typically served in pita bread, which contains gluten. You can use gluten-free wraps for a suitable alternative.
How do you store leftover shawarma?
Leftover shawarma can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
What toppings are typically served with shawarma?
Common toppings for shawarma include lettuce, tomatoes, onions, pickles, and a drizzle of tahini sauce.
Can I freeze shawarma?
Yes, cooked shawarma can be frozen for up to three months. Cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
What is the origin of shawarma?
Shawarma originates from the Middle East, with its roots in the Ottoman Empire, and has become popular worldwide.
Is tahini sauce spicy?
Tahini sauce is not inherently spicy; it has a rich, nutty flavor but can be enhanced with spices or hot sauce according to your taste.
What dishes pair well with shawarma?
Shawarma pairs well with rice, tabbouleh, hummus, or a side of grilled vegetables.
How do I make tahini sauce?
To make tahini sauce, mix tahini with lemon juice, garlic, water, and salt until smooth.
