Shawarma sauce

Shawarma sauce plays a pivotal role in the beloved shawarma dish, a Middle Eastern street food that has gained international fame. Shawarma refers to the method of stacking seasoned meat on a vertical spit and roasting it slowly. While the meats vary—ranging from chicken, beef, lamb, to turkey—it’s the sauce that truly defines the flavor profile of a shawarma wrap or plate. Typically, there are two main types of shawarma sauce: a garlic-based white sauce and a spicy red sauce. Here, we’ll focus on making the creamy garlic sauce at home, which is beloved for its rich, tangy flavor that complements the savory meat.

• In a bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt and tahini until well combined. This creates a creamy base for the sauce.
• Stir in the minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil. These ingredients add the tangy, aromatic flavors characteristic of shawarma sauce.
• Add salt and ground cumin to the mixture. Adjust these according to your taste preference. Cumin adds a warm, earthy note to the sauce.
• If using, fold in the finely chopped parsley for a fresh, herby flavor.
• For the best flavor, cover and refrigerate the sauce for at least an hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.

Storage Tips

Store the shawarma sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The acidity from the lemon juice helps preserve the sauce, but it’s best consumed while fresh for the optimal flavor profile.

Useful Properties of the Main Ingredient

Greek yogurt serves as the base for this sauce and is known for its high protein content, probiotics, calcium, and vitamin B12. The probiotics in Greek yogurt are beneficial for digestive health, making this shawarma sauce not only delicious but also nutritious.

Interesting Facts

• Shawarma is an Arabic rendition of the Turkish word “çevirme,” meaning “turning,” referring to the meat’s rotation on the spit.
• The garlic sauce, often called “toum” in the Middle East, requires a balance of garlic and lemon to achieve its signature flavor.
• While traditional in the Middle East, shawarma and its accompanying sauces have been adapted worldwide, with variations to suit local tastes.

This homemade shawarma sauce recipe offers a creamy, flavorful complement to the richly seasoned meats of a shawarma dish. It’s a testament to the culinary diversity and richness of Middle Eastern cuisine, bringing a piece of its tradition to your kitchen table.