Plate of Shawarma

Plate Shawarma: a quick and tasty delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

If you're looking for a savory meal that can be ready in record time and also sweeten your life a little, plate shawarma is the perfect choice. Although often considered 'unhealthy', it can be adapted and prepared in a healthier way, combining fresh ingredients in a flavorful manner. It’s a simple, quick recipe that’s ideal for those days when time doesn’t allow you to spend too long in the kitchen.

A brief history of shawarma

Over the years, shawarma has become a true symbol of street food, loved by many for its delicious combination of meat, vegetables, and sauces. Its origins are lost in the mists of time, but today it is appreciated worldwide, with each region having its unique version. This recipe offers an adapted variant, served on a plate, to savor all the flavors without using pita or wraps.

Necessary ingredients

- 1 packet of 'Perfect Shawarma' spice mix
- 600 g chicken breast
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil
- 200 g natural yogurt
- 100 g mayonnaise
- 2 pickles
- 400 g potatoes (for frying)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: lettuce or cabbage for added freshness

Preparing plate shawarma

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by washing the chicken breast well under cold running water. After cleaning it, pat it dry with a paper towel to remove excess water. This step is essential for achieving tender and well-fried meat.

2. Cutting the chicken:
Cut the chicken breast into cubes of about 2-3 cm. This size will ensure even cooking and better integration of flavors.

3. Marinating the chicken:
In a bowl, add olive oil and the contents of the 'Perfect Shawarma' spice mix packet. Mix well until the spices dissolve in the oil. Add the chicken cubes and mix everything well so that each piece is coated with the marinade. Let it rest for 15 minutes. This marinating time allows the spices to penetrate the meat, giving it an intense flavor.

4. Preparing the sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the yogurt and mayonnaise. Mix well until smooth. This creamy sauce will perfectly complement your shawarma, adding a touch of freshness.

5. Frying the chicken:
Heat a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add a little olive oil. When the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken cubes. Fry for 10-12 minutes, turning frequently, until golden and well cooked. Make sure the chicken is cooked through but remains juicy.

6. Frying the potatoes:
In another pan, fry the diced or sliced potatoes, according to your preference, until they become crispy and golden. You can also use frozen potatoes for an even shorter preparation time.

7. Assembling the plate:
In a large plate, lay a layer of fried potatoes. On top, place the fried chicken cubes. Add sliced pickles and a drizzle of the yogurt and mayonnaise sauce. If desired, you can also add some lettuce or cabbage leaves for extra freshness and crunch.

8. Serving:
Serve the plate shawarma warm, with the remaining sauce on the side for additional flavor. You can accompany this dish with a refreshing drink or fresh lemonade.

Useful tips for a perfect result

- Make sure the chicken is well marinated for an intense flavor.
- You can add other vegetables, such as tomatoes or peppers, to enrich the dish.
- If you like a spicy note, you can add hot pepper sauce to the yogurt sauce.
- The potatoes can be replaced with a fresh vegetable salad for a lighter version.

Nutritional benefits

This plate shawarma recipe is an excellent source of protein due to the chicken breast, which is also low in fat, especially if you choose to use olive oil instead of saturated fats. The yogurt adds beneficial probiotics for the digestive system, and the vegetables provide essential vitamins.

Estimated calories

On average, a serving of plate shawarma contains about 500-600 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and the portion of potatoes.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use pork or beef?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe using other types of meat, but the cooking time may vary.

- How can I make a vegan sauce?
Replace the mayonnaise with an avocado or tofu-based sauce, and the yogurt with a vegan yogurt.

- Can it be prepared in advance?
You can prepare the chicken and sauce a few hours ahead and store them in the fridge. Fry the potatoes just before serving to keep them crispy.

Serving suggestions

This plate shawarma pairs perfectly with a cabbage salad or a side of aromatic basmati rice. Sautéed mushrooms or grilled vegetables are also excellent choices to accompany this main dish.

In conclusion, plate shawarma is a quick and delicious recipe, perfect for busy evenings that will bring a smile to your face. Don’t forget to experiment with the ingredients and personalize your recipe according to your preferences. Enjoy!