Experience the Ultimate Flavor Explosion: Easy Beef Shawarma You’ll Love!

Craving something hearty, tasty and satisfying? Beef shawarma hits all the notes. This Middle Eastern classic,  known for its bold spices and tender meat. It is traditional cooked on a vertical spit, but now you can easily recreate the the same magic at home.

Whether served in a warm wrap or tucked in a soft pita, or plated with rice and salad, this homemade beef  Shawarma recipe will be a favourite to the whole family. Let’s dive in!

What is Beef Shawarma ?

Beef shawarma is a well-known Middle Eastern street food,  made from thinly sliced beef marinated with fragrant blend of cumin, paprika, garlic, spices. It is traditionally cooked on a vertical spit. The meat is crispy on the outside and soft and juicy on the inside.

While classic beef shawarma is cooked on a vertical spit, at home a grill or pan is used to get  the same crave worthy texture and flavour. It is typically served in wraps or pitas, and paired with fresh toppings and rich sauces like tahini or garlic sauce.

A brief history Beef Shawarma

Shawarma has its root in the Ottoman Empire and is closely related to the  Turkish doner kebab and Greek gyros. Over the years it spread over to the Middle East and the rest of the world, becoming as a very popular street food sensation.

Different regions developed their own unique marinades, spices and serving styles.  The shawarma is loved all over the world today. It is known as a slow cooked, spiced meat and beef Shawarma is the most popular version.

Ingredients You’ll need for Beef Shawarma

Ingredients:

Here is everything you will need for a juicy, aromatic beef Shawarma.

For the beef:

• 700g flank steak or sirloin steak thinly sliced
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp lemon juice
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground all spice
• salt and pepper to taste

Toppings and Add ons:

Chopped Tomatoes

Sliced cucumbers

Red onions

Fresh parsley or Mint

Pickles ( optional)

Tahini or garlic sauce

Warm pita breads or wraps

How to make the beef Shawarma

Step 1: Marinate the beef

Start by making the flavour marinate. In a large bowl, whisk together :

• olive oil
• lemon juice
• garlic ( minced)
• allspice

Add the sliced  beef  and mix until all the meat is covered. Cover the marinated beef and put in fridge for an hour or ideally overnight. The longer beef  marinate, the tender and flavourful it will be.

Step 2: Time to cook the Shawarma beef

You can cook Beef shawarma using any of these methods

Grill:

Preheat grill to medium high

Grill beef strips 4 – 5 minutes per side or until cooked to your liking.

Pan Sear:

Heat a skillet over medium heat

Cook the marinated beef in batches ( Don’t overcrowd the pan)

Searing each side for a few minutes

Oven Roast

Preheat oven to 400 ‘F ( 200 ‘C)

Spread beef on a lined baking sheet

Roast for 15 – 20 minutes, flipping halfway through

Step 3: Slice the beef

As soon as your beef shawarma is ready, let the beef rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices. Then slice it thinly against the grain, using a sharp knife.

 

Slicing against the grain ensures the meat stays tender and easy to bite. Plus it looks amazing with all the spices caramelized on the edges.

Step 4: Prep your toppings

While the beef rest, prepare your fresh toppings.

Diced tomatoes and cucumbers

Thinly sliced onions

Fresh parsley chopped

Whip up a simple Tahini Sauce

1/2 cup Tahini

2 tbsp lemon juice

1 garlic clove (minced)

1/4 cup cold water ( adjust consistency )

 

Finally putting it all together!

Now this is the fun part, putting the beef, toppings and sauce together!

*Warm the pita or flatbread

* Add the sliced beef on the middle

*Top with veggies, herbs and drizzle with Tahini or garlic sauce

Roll it up or fold like a taco !

Every bite delivers a perfect mix of spices, texture and freshness.

Serving suggestion

Serve your beef Shawarma with:

• Crispy French Fries
• Tabbouleh
• Cucumber Yoghurt Salad
• Extra sauce on the side
• Pickled turnips or olives for a tangy bite

The Shawarma is perfect for lunch, dinner or sharing at gatherings

 

 

Storing leftovers

Got leftovers?! No problem! Let the beef cool down.

Store the beef in an airtight container in the fridge for 2 days.

Reheat the beef in a pan until warm or use a microwave

The leftover beef is ideal for a quick lunch for the next day.

Pro Tip: Keep  the sauces and veggies seperate to keep it fresh for the next time.

Variations

• spicy kick – add chilli flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinate
• Other proteins – swab beef for chicken,lamb, tofu or mushrooms
• Sauce options – Try spicy harissa, herbed yoghurt sauce or chimichurri for a twist

Make it your own. There is no right or wrong way to enjoy Shawarma.

Final Thoughts

Homemade beef Shawarma is easier than you thought and definitely worth it to try it at home. With bold spices, juicy beef and fresh toppings, it’s a recipe that never fails.

It is perfect for family meals, weekend get togethers, or meal prep. This is recipe will soon be a family favourite. Try it once and you’ll see why it’s loved around the world.

Happy cooking and enjoy every delicious bite!

If you are not in the mood to make beef Shawarma for the family, try something light and easier like Pea soup or Panko Crusted Chicken. Both will be a favorite with the family!