Chicken shawarma is a Middle Eastern sandwich popular in Lebanon, Jordan, Israel and Syria. The spices used to make a chicken shawarma sandwich are similar to those used to make Greek gyro wraps. Some recipes instruct users to apply seasonings directly to the meat, while others call for the creation of a shawarma sauce.
Tahini
Tahini is a popular spice in Middle Eastern cuisine. It is often used in curry sauces, hummus and to season meats. If you do not have tahini on hand at the time you are preparing your shawarma sandwich, create your own using sesame seeds and olive oil. Grind the sesame seeds using a pestle and mortar to create a thick paste. Tahini can be found in most grocery stores in the ethnic foods section.
Garlic
Fresh garlic or garlic seasoning is appropriate for seasoning the chicken in your shawarma sandwich. Garlic-lovers might opt for fresh, minced garlic since it emits a stronger flavor than garlic powder or garlic granules. Garlic seasonings can usually be found in the spices and extracts section of the grocery store or in the produce section. Additional garlic is used when creating a shawarma sauce to pour over the meat.
Curry
Curry powder is a blend of a diverse range of seasonings; each blend is unique. You have the option of creating a spicy chicken shawarma sandwich by adding spicy yellow curry. If you prefer a mild flavor, sweet red curry is a suitable option. Marinating your meat in curry sauce is recommended to infuse the chicken in the flavor. Meats should be marinated in curry spices a minimum of 24 hours before preparation. Chicken curry is available in grocery stores, but the widest varieties come from international food stores.
Salt and Black pepper
Salt and pepper offer a delicious finish to your meat. Though marinating the chicken in salt and pepper is a good idea, the meat may still require a sprinkle of pepper while saut eing over heat. Kosher salt and table salt works well with this dish. However, kosher salt gives the meat a more-authentic Middle Eastern flavor. Kosher salt can be found at international food markets and most grocery stores.
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