Shawarma, a beloved culinary treasure from the Middle East, has won the hearts and taste buds of food enthusiasts around the globe. This iconic dish, known for its succulent, marinated meat slow-cooked on a vertical rotisserie, offers a symphony of flavours wrapped in soft, warm pita or flatbread. Each bite is a delightful fusion of spices, textures, and aromas, making shawarma an irresistible experience.
The beauty of shawarma lies in its versatility. From the rich and juicy lamb shawarma to the ever-popular chicken shawarma, there’s a variety to satisfy every palate. Vegetarians can indulge in the delicious paneer tikka shawarma, while health-conscious foodies might prefer the smoky notes of grilled shawarma. Whether you enjoy it as a hearty wrap, a filling platter, or a quick street food snack, shawarma offers endless possibilities.
In this blog, we embark on a culinary journey to explore seven mouthwatering types of shawarma that you must try today. Each variety brings its unique twist to the traditional recipe, offering a delectable adventure through the world of shawarma. So, prepare your taste buds and join us as we dive into the irresistible world of shawarma delights. Let’s dive into the varieties of shawarma that you must try today.
1. Lamb Shawarma
Lamb shawarma is a classic delight. The rich, juicy lamb is marinated in a blend of Middle Eastern spices such as cumin, coriander, and cardamom, which infuse the meat with an aromatic flavour. Slow-cooked to perfection, the lamb is thinly sliced and served with fresh vegetables, tahini sauce, and pickles, all wrapped in warm pita bread. This type of shawarma is a must-try for meat lovers seeking an authentic shawarma experience.
2. Chicken Shawarma
Chicken shawarma is arguably the most popular type of shawarma. It features tender chicken thighs marinated in yoghurt, garlic, lemon juice, and a variety of spices, including paprika, turmeric, and cinnamon. This combination results in a flavorful and juicy filling that’s hard to resist. Whether enjoyed in a wrap or served as a platter with rice and salad, chicken shawarma is a versatile dish that never disappoints.
3. Paneer Tikka Shawarma
A scrumptious and a most delicious choice for those who prefer a vegetarian option. This unique variety combines the traditional flavours of this exotic dish, with the Indian favourite, paneer tikka. The paneer is marinated in a spiced yoghurt mixture and then grilled until beautifully charred. Wrapped in a flatbread with fresh vegetables and chutneys, this variety offers a delightful fusion of Middle Eastern and Indian cuisines.
4. Tawa Shawarma
Tawa shawarma is a creative twist on the traditional method, using a flat griddle (tawa) instead of a vertical rotisserie. This method is often used in home kitchens or small eateries where a rotisserie isn’t available. The marinated meat, typically chicken or beef, is cooked on the tawa until tender and juicy. This type of shawarma is then assembled with the usual accompaniments, providing a delicious and practical alternative to the classic preparation.
5. Arabic Shawarma
Arabic shawarma is the quintessential street food found throughout the Middle East. Typically made with chicken, beef, or lamb, this shawarma is distinguished by its unique marinade, which often includes ingredients like vinegar, garlic, and a blend of regional spices. The meat is cooked slowly, allowing the flavours to develop fully, and is then served with a variety of side dishes such as garlic sauce, pickles, and fries, all wrapped in soft, thin bread.
6. Grilled Shawarma
Grilled shawarma is a healthier take on the traditional recipe. The marinated meat, often chicken or beef, is grilled to achieve a smoky flavour that complements the spices beautifully. This method reduces the fat content without sacrificing taste, making it a great option for those looking to enjoy shawarma in a more health-conscious way. Grilled shawarma can be served in a wrap or as a salad for a light yet satisfying meal.
7. Grilled Chicken Shawarma Wrap
The grilled chicken shawarma wrap is a fusion of traditional shawarma flavours with a modern twist. The chicken is marinated and grilled, then wrapped in a soft flatbread with fresh greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy garlic sauce. This variety of shawarma is perfect for those who crave the classic taste of shawarma but prefer the convenience and ease of a wrap. It’s a popular choice for on-the-go meals or quick lunches.
Where to Find These Delicious varieties of shawarma or How to Make Them at Home
Finding these delectable varieties of shawarma is easier than you might think. Many Middle Eastern restaurants and food trucks offer various shawarma options. However, making shawarma at home can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to customize the flavours to your liking. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
Marinade Preparation: Mix yoghurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, and salt in a bowl.
Meat Preparation: Choose your meat (chicken, lamb, beef, or paneer for a vegetarian option) and marinate it in the mixture. Let it sit for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Cooking: For traditional shawarma, the meat is cooked on a vertical rotisserie. Alternatively, it can be grilled or cooked on a tawa.
Serving: Slice the cooked meat thinly and serve it in pita bread or flatbread with your choice of vegetables, sauces, and pickles.
By experimenting with different marinades and cooking methods, you can enjoy a variety of shawarma flavours right in your kitchen.
Conclusion
Shawarma is a versatile and delicious dish that offers a multitude of flavours and textures. From the classic lamb and chicken shawarma to innovative varieties like paneer tikka and grilled shawarma, there’s something for everyone to enjoy among different types of shawarma. Whether you’re savouring these dishes at a local eatery or making them at home, the world of shawarma promises a delightful culinary journey.
FAQ
1. What is a Shawarma?
Shawarma is a Middle Eastern dish of marinated meat that’s slow-cooked on a vertical rotisserie. The meat is shaved off in thin slices and typically served on pita bread with various accompaniments like vegetables, sauces, and pickles. Shawarma can be made with various types of meat, including chicken, lamb, beef, and vegetarian options like paneer.
2. What cuts of chicken are best for shawarma?
The best cuts of chicken for shawarma are boneless, skinless thighs. Chicken thighs are preferred over breasts because they remain juicy and tender during the slow-cooking process, ensuring the shawarma is flavorful and moist.
