Ingredients:
For the Shawarma Marinade:
- 1 pound (450g) boneless chicken thighs or beef strips
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
For Serving:
- Pita bread or flatbread
- Sliced tomatoes
- Sliced cucumbers
- Chopped lettuce
- Tahini sauce or garlic sauce
- Sliced red onion (optional)
Marinating the Shawarma:
- In a bowl, mix together plain yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, ground coriander, ground turmeric, ground cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice to create the marinade.
- Add the chicken thighs or beef strips to the marinade, ensuring they're coated thoroughly. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight for richer flavors.
Preparing the Shawarma:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange the marinated meat on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper (for chicken thighs) or in a baking dish (for beef strips).
- Bake the marinated meat in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked, flipping halfway through. Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Once done, allow the meat to rest before thinly slicing it.
Assembling the Shawarma Wraps:
- Warm the pita bread or flatbread.
- Place a generous amount of the cooked and thinly sliced shawarma meat onto the bread.
- Add sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, chopped lettuce, sliced red onion (if using), and a drizzle of tahini sauce or garlic sauce.
- Roll the bread around the filling to form a shawarma wrap.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Enjoy the delightful homemade shawarma wraps, relishing the flavorful combination of marinated meat, fresh veggies, and delightful sauces!
Savor the Middle Eastern Flavors:
- Delight in these homemade shawarma wraps, featuring succulent marinated meat, crisp vegetables, and delectable sauces wrapped in warm bread - a taste of the Middle East at home! Customize with your preferred toppings and sauces for a personal touch.