Monthly Archives: December 2022

Shawarma For All

Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern dish that consists of shaved meat that is slow-roasted on a spit and served in a pita or wrap. It is a versatile and flavorful dish that can be made with a variety of meats, including chicken, lamb, and beef, and is often topped with vegetables and sauces. Shawarma has a long history and is enjoyed all over the world, making it a truly global dish.

The origins of shawarma are somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the Ottoman Empire. Shawarma is a type of doner kebab, which is a dish that consists of meat that is cooked on a spit and then sliced and served in a sandwich or wrap. Doner kebab is thought to have originated in the 19th century in Istanbul, Turkey, and it is now enjoyed all over the world. Shawarma, which is a specific type of doner kebab, is made with shaved meat and is particularly popular in the Middle East.

To make shawarma, the meat is typically marinated in a blend of spices and then cooked on a spit for several hours. As the meat cooks, it is shaved off the spit and served immediately. Shawarma is often served with a variety of toppings and sauces, such as tahini, a sesame seed paste, and yogurt-based sauces like tzatziki. Vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and onions are also common toppings. Shawarma can be served as a sandwich or wrap, or it can be served as a platter with rice or grains and a variety of sides.

Shawarma is a popular street food in many parts of the Middle East and can be found at food carts, markets, and restaurants. It is a quick and convenient meal that is enjoyed by people of all ages. In addition to its delicious taste, shawarma is also a relatively healthy option, as the slow-roasting process helps to retain the meat’s natural juices and flavors. Shawarma is a high-protein dish that is low in fat and calories, making it a good choice for those who are looking for a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Shawarma has become popular all over the world, and it can be found in many different countries. It is a staple of Middle Eastern cuisine, and it is enjoyed by people of all ages and cultures. Shawarma is a delicious and flavorful dish that is easy to make and can be enjoyed as a quick snack or a full meal. Its versatility and convenience make it a popular choice for people all over the world.

Middle Eastern Food 101

Middle Eastern cuisine is a rich and diverse culinary tradition that reflects the many cultures and influences that have shaped the region. With a long history of trade and cultural exchange, the Middle East is home to a wide variety of dishes, flavors, and ingredients that have become iconic to the region.

One of the most popular and iconic dishes of the Middle East is falafel, a deep-fried ball or patty made from ground chickpeas or fava beans. Often served in a pita bread with vegetables and sauces, falafel is a popular street food throughout the region. Another popular dish is hummus, a creamy dip made from mashed chickpeas, tahini (a paste made from sesame seeds), lemon juice, and garlic. Hummus is often served with pita bread or vegetables as an appetizer or snack.

Lamb is a common ingredient in many Middle Eastern dishes, and is often grilled or roasted and served with a variety of side dishes. Kebabs, skewers of grilled meat, are also a popular option, and can be found at many street food stalls and restaurants throughout the region. Rice is also a staple in many Middle Eastern dishes, and is often served with a variety of vegetables and meats.

One of the most iconic desserts of the Middle East is baklava, a sweet pastry made with layers of phyllo dough and filled with nuts and sweet syrup or honey. Other popular sweets include halva, a dense and sweet confection made from ground sesame seeds, and Turkish delight, a soft, gel-like candy made from sugar, cornstarch, and flavored with rosewater or lemon.

Middle Eastern cuisine is also known for its abundance of flavorful spices and herbs. Cumin, coriander, and turmeric are common ingredients in many dishes, and are often used to add depth and flavor to both savory and sweet dishes. Mint, parsley, and basil are also frequently used in Middle Eastern cooking, and add a fresh and aromatic touch to many dishes.

In addition to traditional Middle Eastern dishes, the region is also home to a variety of international cuisines, as it has been a crossroads of trade and cultural exchange for centuries. Many Middle Eastern countries have a strong street food culture, with vendors selling a variety of local and international dishes, from falafel and shawarma to pizza and burgers.

Overall, Middle Eastern cuisine is a reflection of the region’s rich history and cultural diversity, with a wide variety of dishes and flavors that have become iconic to the region. From the spicy and savory flavors of lamb and kebabs, to the sweet and aromatic flavors of baklava and Turkish delight, the food of the Middle East is a testament to the region’s culinary traditions.