Egypt • Africa • medium • 80 mins
Egypt Shawarma
Description
Shawarma is a popular street food in Egypt, consisting of marinated meat that is slow-cooked on a vertical rotisserie. It holds cultural significance as a beloved dish enjoyed by many, often served in sandwiches or wraps with a variety of toppings and sauces.
Ingredients
- 500g chicken thighs or beef, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pita bread or flatbreads for serving
- Sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions for garnish
- Tahini sauce or garlic sauce for drizzling
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper to create a marinade.
- Add the sliced meat to the marinade, ensuring it is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
- Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the marinated meat for about 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and slightly charred.
- Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Slice the cooked meat into thin strips.
- Serve the shawarma in pita bread or flatbreads, topped with sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and a drizzle of tahini or garlic sauce.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 350 per serving
Servings: 4
Dietary: gluten-free
⚠️ Allergens: dairy
Health Benefits
Shawarma is rich in protein from chicken or beef, supporting muscle health and satiety. The use of olive oil provides healthy fats that promote heart health, while the spices like cumin and coriander have anti-inflammatory properties. The inclusion of yogurt adds probiotics, beneficial for gut health. Additionally, being gluten-free makes it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Cultural Significance
Shawarma has roots in Middle Eastern cuisine but has become a staple in Egyptian street food culture. It reflects the blending of flavors and culinary traditions in Egypt, often enjoyed during social gatherings and family meals.
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