Beef Shawarma

Beef Shawarma – A delicacy that will delight your senses

Preparation time:
- Active time: 1 hour
- Marinating time: 24 hours
- Total time: 25 hours
- Number of servings: 6-7 wraps

Description
Beef shawarma is a savory dish that has captured the hearts of food lovers around the world. It is a perfect mix of textures and flavors that will make you fall in love with every bite. The juicy beef, combined with a creamy sauce and fresh vegetables, offers an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you enjoy it on a quiet evening at home or serve it at a party with friends, shawarma is always a winning choice.

Ingredients
- 1 kg beef (or veal)
- 5-6 medium potatoes
- 6 wraps or tortillas
- 2 red onions
- 3 green onions
- 3-4 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
- 5 garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- Thyme or oregano (to taste)
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Ketchup (optional)
- Fresh tomatoes (for serving)

Brief history
Although the origins of shawarma are often debated, what we know for sure is that this dish has evolved over time, borrowing influences from various cultures. Originally, shawarma was a simple meal, but today it has become a symbol of street food, holding a special place in the hearts of those who appreciate the combinations of meat, vegetables, and sauces.

Step by step for a perfect shawarma

Step 1: Marinating the meat
To achieve tender and flavorful meat, marinating is essential. So, start by preparing the marinade:
1. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, vinegar, sweet paprika, and thyme or oregano (depending on your preference). Add salt and pepper.
2. Cut the beef into large pieces and add it to the marinade, ensuring it is completely covered. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 24 hours. This will allow the spices to penetrate deeply into the meat.

Step 2: Cooking the meat
Once the meat has marinated, here’s how to cook it:
1. Remove the meat from the marinade and drain the excess. Cut the meat into thin slices.
2. In a non-stick skillet, add a splash of oil and heat over medium heat. Then, place the slices of meat in the skillet.
3. At first, the meat will release water; let it simmer gently. When the water starts to evaporate, stir occasionally to prevent burning.
4. Cook until the meat is browned and juicy, but do not overcook it. The beef or veal should remain tender.

Step 3: Preparing the sauce
A good sauce can make all the difference! Here’s how to prepare it:
1. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise with sour cream. Add the crushed garlic cloves and mix well.
2. For an extra touch of freshness, add some finely chopped fresh cucumbers. Let the sauce rest in the refrigerator to meld the flavors.

Step 4: Preparing the vegetables
Fresh vegetables add a delicious contrast to the shawarma:
1. Cut the red onion into thin strips (Julienne) and mix with the green onion (only the green part or the whole, depending on your preference).
2. You can also add diced fresh tomatoes for a pop of color and freshness.

Step 5: Preparing the fries
French fries are a classic accompaniment:
1. Peel the potatoes and cut them into slices or sticks, depending on your preference.
2. Fry them in a pan with hot oil until golden and crispy. You can add salt to taste.

Step 6: Assembling the shawarma
Now that all the ingredients are ready, it’s time to assemble the shawarma:
1. Spread a wrap or tortilla on a plate. Spread it with the mayonnaise sauce.
2. Add a layer of fries, followed by meat, vegetables, and, if desired, ketchup.
3. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste and roll the wrap tightly, being careful not to tear it.

Useful tips
- If you lack experience in folding wraps, use tortillas, but keep in mind that they can tear more easily.
- You can vary the recipe by adding other vegetables, such as peppers or avocado, for an even richer taste.
- For a more authentic experience, serve shawarma with a fresh salad, like a tomato salad in tabbouleh style, but without bulgur.
- If you want a lighter option, you can use chicken or turkey meat.

Combinations and serving
Beef shawarma pairs perfectly with a refreshing drink, such as iced tea with lemon or fresh lemonade. You can serve it with a side of fries along with a yogurt sauce for added creaminess.

Nutritional benefits
Beef is an excellent source of protein, iron, and B vitamins, essential for a balanced diet. By adding fresh vegetables, shawarma becomes a complete meal rich in nutrients. However, it is best to consume in moderation, considering the calorie content, especially when rich sauces are included. A serving of shawarma contains approximately 600-800 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use chicken instead of beef? Absolutely! Chicken is an excellent alternative and cooks faster.
2. How can I make shawarma spicier? Add spicy sauces or spices like chili to the marinade or the mayonnaise sauce.
3. What other side dishes can I use? You can add grilled vegetables or pickles for a more intense flavor.

Personal note
This beef shawarma recipe has become a family favorite over the years. Every time I make it, I remember the warm summer evenings spent with friends, enjoying the delights cooked with so much love. I encourage you to experiment and add your own favorites, turning shawarma into a unique and personal dish.

So, don’t wait any longer! Roll up your sleeves and prepare a delicious beef shawarma that will impress anyone who tastes it! Enjoy!

 Ingredients: Veal - at least one kilogram (for 6-7 flatbreads) Potatoes 5-6 medium Flatbreads or tortillas Red onion 2 pieces Green onion 3 pieces Mayonnaise Sour cream Garlic - 5 cloves Tomatoes