Syrian Shawarma is one of the most famous dishes that captivates hearts with its delicious taste and rich spices. This quick marinade combines a perfect blend of spices such as turmeric, rich in antioxidants; ginger, which enhances digestion; and cinnamon, known for its role in improving blood circulation. Natural yogurt adds a delicious flavor and helps tenderize the meat thanks to its probiotic content, while olive oil and lemon provide the body with vitamin E and vitamin C to support skin health and immunity. Enjoy a distinctive taste and health benefits with this amazing marinade! Are you ready to savor an irresistible flavor?

 Syrian Shawarma Quick Marinade Recipe

Ingredients:

1. 1 kg chicken, cut into thin slices
2. 1 cup natural yogurt
3. ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
4. Juice of one fresh lemon
5. 3 garlic cloves, minced
6. 1 tsp curry powder
7. 1 tsp paprika
8. ¾ tsp cinnamon
9. ¾ tsp ground ginger
10. ¾ tsp dried basil
11. ¾ tsp turmeric
12. Salt and black pepper to taste
13. 1 tbsp chicken spices
14. 1 tbsp vinegar
15. 1 tsp onion powder

Preparation Method:

1. In a large bowl, mix yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, and all the spices and dry herbs.
2. Add the chicken slices to the bowl and stir well to ensure each slice is coated with the marinade.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 6 hours to allow the flavors to soak in.

Now, after marinating the chicken slices with this magical recipe, you're ready to prepare a delicious and distinctive shawarma that adds an authentic touch of Middle Eastern cooking to your meal!

How to Cook Syrian Shawarma

After preparing the marinade and marinating the chicken, the most crucial step is cooking it to achieve an authentic and delicious Syrian shawarma flavor. There are three main cooking methods:

Grilling on a Grill or Pan:

• Heat a pan or grill over medium-high heat with a little oil.
• Place the marinated chicken slices on the grill or pan and flip them occasionally until they turn golden and are fully cooked.
• Cooking takes about 10-15 minutes until the chicken becomes tender and thoroughly done.

Baking in the Oven:

• Preheat the oven to 200°C.
• Place the chicken in a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
• Cover the tray with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes, then remove the cover and broil for a few minutes to get a golden color.

Using a Rotating Spit (Closest to Restaurant Style):

• Arrange the marinated chicken slices on a shawarma skewer.
• Roast them over medium heat, continuously rotating to ensure even heat distribution.
• Grill for 45-60 minutes, then slice the outer layers as done in restaurants.

Best Serving Methods

After cooking, Syrian shawarma can be served in several delicious ways, such as:

• In Saj bread or Syrian shawarma bread, with fresh vegetables like tomatoes, lettuce, and onions.
• Adding special sauces such as garlic sauce (Toumieh), tahini, or yogurt-garlic sauce.
• Serving it with French fries and pickles, such as pickled cucumbers and carrots, for extra flavor.
• Preparing a Shawarma Plate, by serving the shawarma with spiced rice, garlic sauce, and tahini.

Note: This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy rich Arabic flavors and wish to prepare delicious homemade shawarma. However, it may not suit individuals who dislike spicy foods or are allergic to Middle Eastern spices.

Health Benefits of the Ingredients:

• Chicken: A rich source of protein essential for muscle building and overall body health.
• Natural Yogurt: Contains probiotics beneficial for gut health and digestion, along with calcium to support bone health.
• Olive Oil: Rich in healthy fats and antioxidants that protect the heart and reduce inflammation.
• Lemon Juice: High in vitamin C, which boosts immunity and enhances iron absorption.
• Garlic: Supports heart health and acts as a natural antibacterial and antiviral agent.
• Curry and Turmeric: Contain curcumin, which reduces inflammation and promotes brain health.
• Paprika: Packed with antioxidants that support skin health and protect cells.
• Cinnamon: Helps regulate blood sugar levels and improves blood circulation.
• Ginger: Enhances digestion and reduces body inflammation.
• Dried Basil: Contains antioxidants and vitamins that support immunity.
• Onion Powder: Rich in sulfur, which promotes healthy skin and hair.
• Vinegar: Improves digestion and adds a unique flavor to the dish.

These ingredients blend to create a rich flavor with health benefits, making this recipe an ideal choice.

Nutritional Values:  
Here are approximate estimates for some ingredients:

1. Chicken (1 kg): About 1200-1500 calories and approximately 240-300 grams of protein.
2. Yogurt (1 cup): About 150 calories and approximately 8 grams of protein.
3. Olive Oil (¼ cup): About 480 calories.
4. Lemon Juice (1 lemon): About 15 calories.
5. Garlic (3 cloves): About 15 calories.
6. Other spices: Mostly zero to low calories.

Note: These estimates are approximate and may vary depending on the brand and specific ingredients used in the recipe. It’s important to check the ingredient labels for accurate nutritional values.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can Syrian Shawarma be made with meat instead of chicken?

Yes, you can use the same marinade and replace chicken with beef or lamb slices. However, it is recommended to marinate the meat for a longer period (6-12 hours) to fully absorb the flavors.

2. What is the best type of chicken for making shawarma?

Chicken breasts are preferred for a tender texture and easy slicing, but chicken thighs can also be used as they provide a richer flavor and juicier texture.

3. How can shawarma be prepared in a healthy way?

To make healthy shawarma, you can grill or bake it instead of frying. Additionally, using fat-free yogurt in the marinade and reducing the amount of oil in cooking helps make it a healthier option.

4. What are the essential spices for shawarma marinade?

The key spices include:

• Paprika
• Turmeric
• Cinnamon
• Ginger
• Minced garlic

These spices contribute to the rich and distinctive shawarma flavor.

5. How long does the marinade last?

Marinated chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to one month without losing its flavor.