Shawarma is one of the most beloved street foods worldwide. Its irresistible combination of tender, spiced meat wrapped in a warm pita or flatbread makes it a go-to dish in many cultures. What truly sets shawarma apart is the rich and aromatic spice blend used to season the meat. The good news? You can easily recreate this flavor-packed shawarma spice blend at home with simple ingredients!
In this blog post, we'll show you how to make your own shawarma spice blend from scratch, allowing you to bring the authentic flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine into your kitchen. This homemade blend is perfect for shawarma and can be used to season chicken, lamb, beef, or even vegetables for a deliciously spiced dish.
The Ingredients You’ll Need
To make a traditional shawarma spice blend, you’ll need to gather a variety of spices. Each of these spices contributes to shawarma's complex, warm, and savory flavor profile. Here’s what you’ll need:
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Ground cumin — Cumin's earthy, nutty flavor is a key ingredient in shawarma, adding depth to the blend.
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Ground Coriander – Coriander has a citrusy and slightly sweet flavor that balances out the earthiness of the cumin.
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Ground Paprika – Paprika adds a mild, smoky flavor and a subtle hint of sweetness.
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Ground Turmeric – Turmeric brings a warm, slightly bitter flavor and vibrant yellow color.
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Ground Cinnamon – A pinch provides subtle warmth and sweetness, a signature element in many Middle Eastern spice blends.
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Ground Allspice – Allspice adds a complex, aromatic flavor, hinting at cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
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Ground Cloves – Cloves are strong in flavor but, when used sparingly, they add a fragrant kick that enhances the blend.
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Garlic Powder – Garlic is essential to many spice blends, giving shawarma its savory, rich flavor.
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Onion Powder – Onion powder adds a mild, slightly sweet taste to the blend.
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Ground Black Pepper — Freshly ground black pepper adds a little heat and enhances the other flavors in the mix.
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Salt – Salt is essential to bring out all the flavors and tie the blend together.
How to Use Shawarma Spice Blend?
The best part about making shawarma spice blend at home is that it can be used in various dishes, not just traditional shawarma. Here’s how you can use your homemade spice mix:
1. Shawarma Meat Marinade
The most obvious use for your shawarma spice blend is as a marinade for your protein (chicken, beef, lamb, or even a vegetarian option). Here’s how to prepare a simple shawarma marinade:
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1 lb of meat (chicken thighs, beef, lamb, etc.)
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2 tablespoons of shawarma spice blend
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3 tablespoons olive oil
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2 tablespoons lemon juice
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2 cloves garlic (minced)
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Salt, to taste
Mix all the ingredients and marinate your meat for at least 2 hours, or overnight for a deeper flavor. Then, cook the meat on a grill, stovetop, or in the oven, and enjoy your homemade shawarma!
2. Shawarma Vegetables
Shawarma spice blend works wonders on roasted or grilled vegetables. Toss your favorite veggies (like bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or cauliflower) with olive oil, shawarma spice blend, and a pinch of salt, then roast them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes. This creates a healthy and flavorful vegetarian dish.
3. Shawarma Sauce
Combine 1/2 cup of plain yogurt with 1 tablespoon of your shawarma spice blend for a creamy and flavorful shawarma sauce. Add a squeeze of lemon juice and a pinch of salt. This sauce can be used to drizzle over your shawarma meat or vegetables, or as a dip on the side.
4. Shawarma Rice
Add a little shawarma spice blend to your rice while cooking to give it extra flavor. Simply stir in 1-2 teaspoons of the spice mix when adding water to your rice, and you'll have a fragrant, Middle Eastern-inspired side dish.
Tips for the Best Shawarma Spice Blend
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Freshness Matters: The freshness of your spices will significantly affect the flavor of your blend. If your spices are old or have been sitting around for a while, your blend may lack the depth and intensity you're looking for. If possible, purchase fresh spices from a trusted source.
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Adjust to Taste: If you prefer a fiery blend, add some cayenne pepper or chili powder. For a more aromatic blend, increase the amount of cinnamon or allspice.
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Make in Batches: Shawarma spice blend can easily be made in large batches and stored for future use. Make enough to last a few weeks and use it whenever you crave Middle Eastern flavor.
More Creative Ways to Use Your Shawarma Spice Blend
The beauty of shawarma spice blend lies in its versatility. Beyond the traditional shawarma, there are countless ways to incorporate these flavors into your everyday meals. Let’s explore some more creative ways to use this aromatic spice mix:
1. Shawarma-Inspired Burgers
If you're a fan of burgers, why not elevate your classic beef or chicken patty with shawarma spices? Mix one tablespoon of the shawarma spice into your ground meat before shaping the patties. Grill or pan-fry the patties, and top them with your favorite fixings—lettuce, tomatoes, and a drizzle of tahini sauce or yogurt for a delicious twist on the traditional burger.
2. Shawarma-Inspired Tacos
Shawarma-spiced meat makes for a fantastic taco filling. After marinating your meat (chicken, beef, or lamb) with your homemade shawarma spice blend, grill or sauté the beef and slice it thinly. Fill soft corn tortillas with the shawarma meat and top with chopped onions, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a dollop of garlic sauce or a squeeze of lime. It’s a fusion dish that combines Middle Eastern and Mexican flavors!
3. Shawarma Rice Bowls
Shawarma spice blend is perfect for creating delicious rice bowls. Simply season your rice or couscous with the spice blend and add your choice of cooked protein, such as grilled chicken or lamb. Top with sautéed vegetables, fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, and a tahini sauce or yogurt drizzle for an easy and flavorful meal.
4. Shawarma-Spiced Hummus
Hummus is a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine, and you can give it a shawarma twist by adding a bit of your spice blend. After blending chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and salt to make hummus, stir in a teaspoon of shawarma spice blend. This creates a flavorful dip perfect for pairing with pita, vegetables, or as part of a mezze platter.
5. Shawarma-Powered Roasted Nuts
Shawarma spice blend can also season roasted nuts for a savory snack. Toss a handful of almonds, cashews, or walnuts with olive oil, a pinch of salt, and 1-2 teaspoons of shawarma spice blend. Roast the nuts in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. These spiced nuts make for a delicious and addictive snack!
6. Shawarma-Style Grilled Cheese
For a unique take on grilled cheese, sprinkle a little shawarma spice blend on the buttered bread before grilling. You can use it as a seasoning for the bread or mix it into the cheese filling. Combining melty cheese with the bold shawarma flavors will offer a delightful contrast of tastes.
Conclusion
Creating your shawarma spice blend is an easy and rewarding way to bring the flavors of the Middle East into your kitchen. Whether making classic shawarma, experimenting with shawarma-inspired dishes, or spicing up your vegetables and grains, this versatile blend can transform any meal into a flavorful experience. The best part? You control the ingredients, ensuring you get the freshest and most authentic flavors possible.
Now that you know how to blend shawarma spice, it’s time to cook! Prepare your shawarma at home, experiment with new recipes, and enjoy the incredible depth of flavor that only a homemade spice blend can bring. The possibilities are endless, and your taste buds will thank you!
FAQS
1. What is shawarma spice blend made of?
Shawarma spice blend typically includes cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, allspice, cloves, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. These spices work together to create a warm, aromatic flavor profile that’s perfect for seasoning meats or vegetables.
2. Can I make a vegetarian version of shawarma using the spice blend?
Absolutely! Shawarma spice blend is versatile and can season tofu, tempeh, or vegetables like cauliflower, bell peppers, and zucchini. Simply toss the vegetables or plant-based protein with olive oil and the spice blend, then roast or grill for a delicious vegetarian shawarma alternative.
3. How long can I store the homemade shawarma spice blend?
Homemade shawarma spice blend can be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to six months. For the best flavor, try to use it within 2-3 months as the spices will lose their potency over time.
4. Can I adjust the spice levels in the shawarma blend?
You can customize the spice levels by adding more or less specific ingredients. If you like it spicier, consider adding cayenne pepper or chili powder. For a milder blend, reduce the amount of black pepper or cloves.
5. Can I use the shawarma spice blend for other dishes?
Definitely! While it's perfect for shawarma, this spice blend works great in rice bowls, grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and dips like hummus. Its bold and aromatic flavors can elevate many meals beyond just shawarma.