Beef Shawarma

Walking through the market, the irresistible scent of spices wafted through the air, pulling me closer to a vibrant food stall. It was here that I discovered the magic of Beef Shawarma—tender, marinated meat enveloped in warm pita bread, accompanied by a medley of fresh veggies and zesty sauces. I couldn’t get enough!

In my quest to replicate this culinary delight at home, I found a recipe that not only captures the bold flavors of traditional shawarma but can also be made with minimal fuss on a busy weeknight. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that transports me straight to the bustling streets of the Middle East with every bite.

Whether you’re looking to impress friends at your next gathering or simply want to treat yourself to an exceptional homemade dinner, this Beef Shawarma recipe is your ticket to deliciousness. Get ready to fill your kitchen with tantalizing aromas and enjoy a meal that’s sure to satisfy your cravings!

Beef Shawarma Ingredients

• Get ready for a flavor explosion!

For the Marinade

• 2 pounds beef sirloin or flank steak – choose a cut with good marbling for a juicier result.
• 1/4 cup olive oil – adds richness and helps the spices stick.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – enhances depth and aroma in the marinade.
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin – brings a warm, earthy flavor characteristic of shawarma.
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander – complements the cumin and adds a citrusy note.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – gives a subtle smokiness reminiscent of street food.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – balances the spices with a hint of sweetness.
• Salt and pepper to taste – essential for enhancing all the flavors in your Beef Shawarma.
• Juice of 1 lemon – brightens the marinade and tenderizes the meat.

For Serving

• Pita bread or flatbreads – perfect for wrapping the juicy meat and fresh toppings.
• Fresh vegetables (lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers) – add crunch and freshness to each bite.
• Tzatziki or garlic sauce – drizzle these zesty sauces over your Beef Shawarma for extra flavor.
• Pickled vegetables (optional) – optional, but adds a tangy contrast that complements the savory meat.

This Beef Shawarma recipe will transport you straight to those vibrant markets with every bite!

How to Make Beef Shawarma

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cinnamon, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.

2. Marinate the Beef: Add the beef sirloin or flank steak into the marinade, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for deeper flavor.

3. Preheat the Grill or Oven: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a perfect sear and locks in the juices and flavors.

4. Cook the Beef: Grill the marinated beef for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired doneness. For oven cooking, roast for approximately 20 minutes, flipping halfway.

5. Rest the Meat: Remove the beef from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy.

6. Slice the Beef: Using a sharp knife, slice the beef thinly against the grain. Aim for about 1/2-inch thick slices for optimal tenderness and flavor.

7. Assemble the Shawarma: Place the sliced beef in warm pita or flatbreads. Top with fresh veggies, tzatziki or garlic sauce, and pickled vegetables if you’re using them.

8. Serve: Enjoy your Beef Shawarma fresh and warm, served with your favorite sides or alone as a delightful snack!

Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Beef Shawarma Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on this delicious recipe and make it your own!

• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the marinade for an extra burst of heat that will awaken your senses. Spice lovers will appreciate the depth it brings.

• Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro into the marinade for a vibrant and aromatic flair, making each bite even more refreshing and herbal.

• Lemon Zest Boost: Grate some lemon zest into the marinade for an added layer of citrus brightness that complements the beef perfectly and elevates the overall flavor.

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the beef with thinly sliced portobello mushrooms to create a delightful vegetarian shawarma that even meat lovers will enjoy. Marinating the mushrooms ensures they absorb all the delicious spices.

• Whole Wheat Pita: For a healthier twist, serve your Shawarma in whole wheat pita bread, giving a nutty taste and boosting the nutritional value of your meal.

• Tangy Topping: Swap out tzatziki for a quick and easy tahini sauce made from sesame paste, water, lemon juice, and garlic. This rich sauce adds a delightful creaminess with a nutty essence.

• Pickled Onions: Prep some quick-pickled onions to top your Shawarma; their tangy crunch cuts through the richness of the beef, making every bite exciting and refreshing.

• Sweet Addition: Add a spoonful of pomegranate molasses to the marinade for a touch of sweetness that caramelizes beautifully while cooking, enhancing the flavor profile in a unique way.

Each of these variations will make your Beef Shawarma special, inviting you to savor new flavors and enjoy moments of culinary creativity!

What to Serve with Beef Shawarma?

When savoring the delightful flavors of Beef Shawarma, you’ll want to complement it with a selection of sides and beverages that enhance your dining experience.

• Crispy Fries: Perfectly seasoned and crispy, these fries offer a satisfying crunch that pairs wonderfully with the tender meat.
• Mediterranean Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese, this salad adds a burst of freshness, balancing the rich flavors.
• Hummus with Pita Chips: Creamy hummus provides a smooth, nutty contrast, making each bite more indulgent and delightful between the meat-filled bites.
• Garlic Yogurt Sauce: This tangy sauce drizzled over your shawarma adds a cooling element that beautifully complements the spices in the dish.
• Pickled Red Onions: These vibrant pickles bring a sweet and sour punch, enhancing the overall flavor profile with their zesty brightness.
• Tabbouleh: With its fresh herbs and bulgur wheat, this salad adds a textural contrast and takes your meal to a whole new level.
• Mint Lemonade: Refreshing and lightly sweet, this drink cleanses the palate, making it a delightful accompaniment to the rich shawarma.
• Baklava for Dessert: After the savory feast, this sweet and flakey dessert offers a perfect end to your meal, with its honey and nut flavors.

How to Store and Freeze Beef Shawarma

Fridge: Keep leftover Beef Shawarma in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps retain the meat’s flavor and moisture for your future meals.

Freezer: Freeze the marinated beef prior to cooking for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn, making it easy to pull out for a delicious meal later on.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on a skillet over medium heat, or use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, ensuring the beef remains juicy and flavorful.

Storage Tip: Adding fresh veggies and sauces at the time of serving keeps your Beef Shawarma tasting fresh and vibrant, ensuring an excellent experience every time!

Make Ahead Options

These Beef Shawarma are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the beef up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply for a more delicious result. Simply combine all the marinade ingredients, coat the beef thoroughly, and refrigerate. Additionally, you can chop your fresh vegetables (like lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers) up to 3 days ahead; store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them crisp. When you’re ready to enjoy your Beef Shawarma, simply grill or roast the marinated meat for a quick cook. These steps will save you time while ensuring your meal is just as flavorful and satisfying!

Beef Shawarma Recipe FAQs

What type of beef is best for Beef Shawarma?
I recommend using beef sirloin or flank steak for the best results. These cuts have good marbling, which means they’ll stay juicy and tender after cooking. If you prefer a leaner cut, you can also use top round beef, but make sure to marinate it well to enhance the flavor and tenderness.

How should I store leftover Beef Shawarma?
To keep your leftover Beef Shawarma fresh, place it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This storage method helps maintain the meat’s moisture and flavor. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it according to the instructions provided.

Can I freeze marinated Beef Shawarma?
Absolutely! You can freeze the marinated beef for up to 3 months. Just ensure you wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the beef in the fridge overnight before cooking.

What should I do if my Beef Shawarma turns out tough?
If your Beef Shawarma ends up tough, there are a few steps you can take next time to ensure tenderness. First, always slice the beef against the grain into thin pieces, which tenderizes the meat as you chew. Secondly, marinating for longer—ideally overnight—can significantly enhance tenderness. Lastly, make sure not to overcook the beef; a meat thermometer can help you monitor that the internal temperature reaches about 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare doneness.

Are there any dietary considerations for Beef Shawarma?
Yes! If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, keep in mind that some may be sensitive to gluten or dairy, especially in the pita bread and sauces. You can easily make gluten-free options by swapping traditional pita with gluten-free wraps. For dairy-free preferences, try using tahini or avocado sauce instead of tzatziki or garlic sauce.

How do I serve Beef Shawarma for a crowd?
Serving Beef Shawarma for a crowd is a fun experience! Set up a ‘build-your-own’ station with warm pita or flatbreads, a variety of fresh veggies (lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers), and tasty sauces like tzatziki or garlic sauce. This lets everyone customize their wraps to their liking, creating an enjoyable and interactive meal!

Beef Shawarma

This Beef Shawarma recipe captures bold flavors with tender meat wrapped in pita, perfect for dinner.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Resting Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

Marinade

• 2 pounds beef sirloin or flank steak choose a cut with good marbling for a juicier result.
• 1/4 cup olive oil adds richness and helps the spices stick.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced enhances depth and aroma in the marinade.
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin brings a warm, earthy flavor characteristic of shawarma.
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander complements the cumin and adds a citrusy note.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika gives a subtle smokiness reminiscent of street food.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon balances the spices with a hint of sweetness.
• Salt and pepper to taste essential for enhancing all the flavors in your Beef Shawarma.

For Serving

• Pita bread or flatbreads perfect for wrapping the juicy meat and fresh toppings.
• Fresh vegetables (lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers) add crunch and freshness to each bite.
• Tzatziki or garlic sauce drizzle these zesty sauces over your Beef Shawarma for extra flavor.
• Pickled vegetables (optional) optional, but adds a tangy contrast that complements the savory meat.

Equipment

• Grill
• Oven
• large bowl
• Knife

Method

 

Marinade Preparation

1. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, cinnamon, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.
2. Add the beef sirloin or flank steak into the marinade, ensuring it's evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for deeper flavor.

Cooking

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a perfect sear and locks in the juices and flavors.
2. Grill the marinated beef for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired doneness. For oven cooking, roast for approximately 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
3. Remove the beef from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy.
4. Using a sharp knife, slice the beef thinly against the grain. Aim for about 1/2-inch thick slices for optimal tenderness and flavor.
5. Place the sliced beef in warm pita or flatbreads. Top with fresh veggies, tzatziki or garlic sauce, and pickled vegetables if you’re using them.
6. Enjoy your Beef Shawarma fresh and warm, served with your favorite sides or alone as a delightful snack!

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For the best Beef Shawarma, always marinate your meat for at least one hour or ideally overnight to deepen the flavors. Avoid crowding the grill or baking tray to allow the beef to sear properly, creating a delicious crust. When slicing the beef, make sure to cut against the grain to ensure juicy and tender pieces. For perfect cooking, use a meat thermometer to check that the thickest part of the beef reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare doneness.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!