Homedade Turkish Shawarma Recipe

Shawarma, a Middle Eastern staple, holds a special place in Turkish cuisine. Locally known as döner kebab, its origins can be traced back to the Ottoman era. Layers of seasoned meat, stacked on a vertical spit and slowly roasted, offer a unique and flavorful experience.

Ingredients for Turkish Shawarma:

• For the Meat:
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into thin strips
• 1/4 cup yogurt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• For the Sauce:
• 1/4 cup tahini
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt to taste
• For the Shawarma Wrap:
• 4 large lavash flatbreads
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped tomato
• 1/2 cup chopped lettuce
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Meat: Combine all meat ingredients in a large bowl and mix well. For better flavor, cover and refrigerate for at least two hours, or overnight.
2. Prepare the Sauce: Whisk together all sauce ingredients in a small bowl until smooth. Set aside.
3. Assemble the Shawarma: Heat a large grill pan or griddle over medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken strips onto a skewer, ensuring they are tightly packed.
4. Cook the shawarma for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through. remove from the heat and allow to rest for five minutes.
5. Warm the lavash flatbreads according to package instructions. Spread a thin layer of sauce on the flatbread, then top with sliced shawarma, onion, tomato, lettuce, and parsley.
6. Roll up the flatbread and enjoy!

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 30g

Tips for the Perfect Shawarma:

• Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F by using a meat thermometer.
• For a richer flavor, substitute some of the yogurt in the marinade with olive oil.
• Add other vegetables to your liking, such as cucumbers, pickles, or bell peppers.
• Drizzle the finished shawarma with a squeeze of lemon juice for extra freshness.

Conclusion:

Turkish shawarma is a delicious and easy-to-make meal that is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With its flavorful spices and fresh vegetables, it is sure to become a family favorite. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to experience the taste of Turkey!