Save to Pinterest Tender spiced beef strips wrapped in warm flatbread with fresh vegetables and a tangy, creamy yogurt sauce—a Middle Eastern street food classic.
This recipe reminds me of my travels to Middle Eastern street markets where the aroma of freshly cooked shawarma filled the air.
Ingredients
- For the Beef: 500 g beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced, 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 garlic cloves minced, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp ground coriander, 1 tsp ground paprika, 1/2 tsp ground turmeric, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional), 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, Juice of 1 lemon
- For the Creamy Yogurt Sauce: 200 g (3/4 cup) plain Greek yogurt, 1 tbsp tahini, 1 garlic clove finely minced, Juice of 1/2 lemon, 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, 1/4 tsp salt, Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- For the Wraps: 4 large flatbreads (pita, lavash, or tortillas), 1 small red onion thinly sliced, 1 large tomato sliced, 1/2 cucumber sliced into thin strips, 1 cup shredded lettuce, Fresh mint or parsley leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Combine olive oil, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice in a large bowl. Add beef strips and toss to coat well. Marinate for at least 20 minutes (up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
- Step 2:
- Prepare the yogurt sauce by mixing Greek yogurt, tahini, minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Refrigerate until ready to use.
- Step 3:
- Cook marinated beef in batches over medium-high heat for 4–6 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat.
- Step 4:
- Warm the flatbreads in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds until pliable.
- Step 5:
- Assemble wraps by spreading yogurt sauce on flatbread, topping with beef, onion, tomato, cucumber, lettuce, and herbs if desired.
- Step 6:
- Roll up wraps tightly and serve immediately with extra yogurt sauce on the side.
Save to Pinterest My family loves gathering together to assemble and enjoy these wraps, making it a perfect casual dinner.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with pickled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Storage Tips
Store the marinated beef and yogurt sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Variations
Try substituting beef with chicken or lamb, and add chili sauce for extra heat.
Save to Pinterest Enjoy these flavorful beef shawarma wraps freshly made for the best taste and texture.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What cut of beef works best for shawarma?
Beef sirloin or flank steak thinly sliced are ideal for tender, flavorful strips that cook quickly and absorb spices well.
- → How is the creamy yogurt sauce made?
The sauce combines plain Greek yogurt with tahini, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper for a tangy, smooth finish.
- → Can the flatbread be substituted?
Yes, pita, lavash, or tortillas work well. Gluten-free wraps can be used to accommodate dietary needs.
- → How long should the beef marinate?
Marinate for at least 20 minutes to enhance flavor; up to 2 hours yields deeper seasoning.
- → What spices give shawarma its distinctive flavor?
Cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, and optional cayenne pepper combine to create the signature warm, aromatic taste.
- → What are good accompaniments for this dish?
Pickled vegetables, chili sauce, fresh herbs, and beverages like mint lemonade or crisp white wine complement the flavors.