Ingredients :

• 500 g boneless chicken thighs or beef


• 3 tbsp olive oil


• 3 garlic cloves minced


• 2 tsp ground cumin


• 2 tsp ground coriander


• 1 tsp ground turmeric


• 1 tsp ground cinnamon


• 1/2 tsp ground allspice


• 1/2 tsp ground paprika


• 1/4 tsp ground cloves


• Juice of 1 lemon


• Salt and black pepper to taste


• 4 pita breads


• Fresh vegetables for garnish tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce


• Tahini sauce or garlic sauce optional



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Instructions :

1. Begin by preparing the marinade. In a large bowl, mix the olive oil,
   
   minced garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cinnamon, allspice,
   
   paprika, cloves, and lemon juice. Add salt and pepper to taste.
   
   Combine thoroughly to form a fragrant paste. Ensure the spices are
   
   evenly distributed.




2. Add the chicken thighs (or beef) to the marinade. Use your hands to
   
   coat the meat evenly with the marinade. For best results, cover the
   
   bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the
   
   flavors to penetrate the meat deeply.




3. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). While the oven heats up, line a
   
   baking tray with aluminium foil. You can also prepare the shawarma
   
   on a grill or stovetop for a more authentic flavour, adjusting the
   
   cooking time accordingly.




4. Place the marinated chicken on the prepared baking tray in a single
   
   layer. If using a grill, ensure the meat is placed over medium heat.
   
   Bake the chicken in the oven for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway
   
   through, or until the meat is cooked through and slightly charred.




5. While the meat is cooking, prepare the garnish. Thinly slice the
   
   tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce. Set them aside in a serving dish.
   
   You can also prepare additional garnishes like pickled turnips or
   
   onions for extra flavour.




6. Once the meat is cooked, remove it from the oven and allow it to
   
   rest for 5 minutes. This will help retain its juices and make slicing
   
   easier. Slice the chicken or beef into thin strips to create the
   
   traditional shawarma texture.




7. Warm the pita breads in the oven or on a stovetop. Spread a layer of
   
   tahini sauce or garlic sauce over the pita, if desired. Add the sliced
   
   meat and top with the fresh vegetables. You can also sprinkle with
   
   some fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for added zest.




8. Serve the shawarma hot, wrapped in the pita bread, and enjoy
   
   alongside additional condiments like extra sauce, pickles, or a side
   
   of fries. For presentation, you can serve the assembled shawarma on
   
   a large platter with the garnishes on the side, allowing guests to
   
   build their own wraps.