Shawarma spice mix is a blend of various spices commonly used to season and flavor shawarma, a popular Middle Eastern dish made with meat (such as lamb, chicken, or beef) that’s seasoned, stacked in a cone-like shape, and roasted on a vertical rotisserie. The specific ingredients in the shawarma spice mix can vary depending on regional preferences and personal taste. I like to try store-bought spice mix so I can test different variations. Some usually have extra cinnamon, so you get a very distinct flavor of cinnamon; others may have a distinct flavor of cumin or sometimes even cloves. Over the years I have come to define my own flavor and combination preference. I love it when all my spices are in perfect sync with each other. Playing with spice and creating spices blends is in my blood. I prefer a smooth blend of spices; not one that will overpower the others. So, I make my own Shawarma Spice Mix recipe. This blend works best for me and is one that will tantalize your taste buds. There is everything and yet in such perfect harmony. Absolute heaven!
Ingredients and substitutes
Garlic and ginger – These do come in powder form and are easier to use in spice mixes. If you do not get the powder you can omit them in the spice mix and then add the fresh ginger and garlic directly to the meat. You would need about 1 tbsp minced garlic and 1/2 tbsp of minced ginger for every pound of meat. Fresh ginger is not the same as ginger powder, both in taste and smell. Cayenne or hot paprika – It’s always nice to add a bit of spice to dishes but if you don’t like things spicy you can always add sweet paprika; that way you won’t lose out on the gorgeous color. Often I like using the whole paprika and blend it into a nice powder myself. This gives a more rich color to the blend. Cumin – This adds a nice smoky flavor to the meat but if you do not like it (my husband cannot stand too much cumin) I suggest you reduce it but don’t omit it. Allspice – these look like large black peppers but are actually completely different. A little goes a long way with them.
Step-by-step: Shawarma spice mix
From powders
Combine all spices in a bowl until you have one even color. Transfer to an airtight spice jar or container. Store in a cool dark place for up to 3 months.
From whole spices
Add all the whole spices (not powders) to a frying pan. Toast the spices on low heat for just 3 to 4 minutes until you get a nice aroma of spices.Pro tip – Roasting the spices will add another dimension of flavor but watch carefully as they can burn easily. Remove from heat and let cool completely.Pro tip – It is important that the spices cool otherwise the heat will produce steam in the spice grinder which will reduce the shelflife of the spice mix. Add all the whole spices and powders to a spice grinder and blend until you have a smooth spice mix.Pro tip – Blend in short burst, stirring as needed to prevent to prevent. Transfer to an airtight spice jar or container. Store in a cool dark place for up to 6 months
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Frequently asked questions
Creative ways to use Shawarma spice
Roasted Vegetables: Toss vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers with olive oil and shawarma spice mix, then roast them until caramelized and tender. Serve as a flavorful side dish or add to grain bowls. Marinated Tofu or Tempeh: Marinate tofu or tempeh in a mixture of shawarma spice mix, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. Pan-fry, bake, or grill until crispy on the outside and serve in wraps, salads, or bowls. Grilled Seafood: Use shawarma spice mix as a dry rub for grilled seafood such as shrimp, fish fillets, or scallops. The warm and aromatic flavors complement the delicate taste of seafood beautifully. Spiced Hummus: Stir shawarma spice mix into homemade or store-bought hummus for a Middle Eastern twist. Serve with pita bread, veggies, or as a spread in sandwiches and wraps. Shawarma Pizza: Spread a thin layer of hummus or yogurt sauce on pizza dough, sprinkle with shawarma-spiced chicken or lamb, and top with sliced onions, tomatoes, and feta cheese. Bake until golden and bubbly for a unique fusion pizza. Shawarma Burgers: Mix shawarma spice into ground meat (beef, lamb, or turkey), minced garlic, and onion. Form into burgers and grill or pan-fry until cooked through. Serve on buns with traditional toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, and tzatziki sauce. Spiced Rice or Quinoa: Add shawarma spice mix to cooked rice or quinoa for an aromatic and flavorful side dish. Stir in some chopped nuts, dried fruits, and herbs for added texture and freshness. Shawarma-style Soups: Infuse soups and stews with the warm flavors of shawarma spice mix. Use it to season chicken or lentil soup, or add it to a creamy vegetable soup for depth of flavor. Shawarma-seasoned Fries: Toss freshly cooked French fries with shawarma spice mix and a sprinkle of salt for a tasty twist on classic fries. Serve with garlic aioli or tahini sauce for dipping. Shawarma-inspired Salads: Create a Middle Eastern-inspired salad by tossing mixed greens with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, and olives. Top with grilled shawarma-spiced chicken or chickpeas and drizzle with a tahini dressing. Shawarma Tacos or Wraps: Fill soft tortillas or wraps with shawarma-spiced meat or tofu, along with your favorite toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and a dollop of yogurt sauce or hummus. Stuffed Vegetables: Hollow out vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers and stuff them with a mixture of cooked rice or quinoa, shawarma-spiced ground meat or lentils, and diced vegetables. Bake until tender for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
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