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Beef Shawarma

Beef Shawarma is a mouthwatering dish from the Middle East, featuring tender cuts of beef marinated in a blend of spices and grilled to perfection.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Main
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Keyword: Easy
Servings: 4 servings

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Grill or Oven
  • Skewers (if grilling)

Ingredients

Beef Shawarma Ingredients

  • 2 pounds Beef (flank steak, sirloin, or ribeye) Choose cuts that are well-marbled for tenderness and flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Olive oil Helps to keep the meat moist and adds richness.
  • 1/4 cup Plain yogurt Acts as a tenderizer and adds a creamy texture.
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced Adds a pungent kick to enhance flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon Ground cumin Provides warmth and earthiness.
  • 1 tablespoon Ground coriander Adds a citrusy flavor that balances the spices.
  • 1 tablespoon Paprika For a hint of sweetness and vibrant color.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon Adds a warm, sweet note.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground black pepper For subtle heat and depth.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for enhancing flavors.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon juice Brightens the dish and adds acidity.
  • 1 tablespoon Ground turmeric For color and a warm flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Cayenne pepper (optional) For those who enjoy a bit of heat.
  • 1 package Pita bread or flatbreads For serving, choose fresh or toasted.
  • 1 cup Fresh vegetables (e.g., lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions) For toppings, adding freshness and crunch.
  • 1 cup Garlic sauce or tahini sauce For drizzling, enhancing the dish.

Instructions

  • 1. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, plain yogurt, minced garlic, ground cumin, ground coriander, paprika, ground cinnamon, ground black pepper, salt, lemon juice, ground turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix thoroughly.
  • 2. Slice the beef against the grain into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick. Add the sliced beef to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight.
  • 3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C). If using a skillet, heat over medium-high heat with a splash of olive oil.
  • 4. Remove the beef from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. If grilling, thread the beef strips onto skewers.
  • 5. Grill for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked to your desired doneness. For oven roasting, spread on a baking sheet and roast for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • 6. Allow the beef to rest for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.
  • 7. Prepare your toppings by chopping fresh vegetables and preparing sauces.
  • 8. Serve by warming pita or flatbreads, layering with beef, fresh vegetables, and drizzling with sauce. Enjoy!

Notes

Feel free to customize your Beef Shawarma with different proteins, spices, or serving styles.