Shawarma, a beloved dish of Middle Eastern origin, has gained immense popularity worldwide. This delightful street food is famous for its succulent meat, rich flavors, and diverse toppings. While there are numerous different types of shawarma, the two primary variations are chicken shawarma and lamb shawarma.
2 Types Of Shawarma
Each type has its own perfect balance between taste and the textures presented by shawarma, making it a dish worth exploring in depth.
1. Chicken Shawarma
Chicken shawarma is a crowd favorite and one of the most widely enjoyed varieties. It is prepared by marinating chicken in a mix of flavorful spices, olive oil, and lemon juice. The marinade often includes garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, and turmeric, which give the chicken a vibrant color and tantalizing aroma.
The marinated chicken is stacked on a vertical rotisserie, one of the types of shawarma machines commonly used to cook the meat to perfection. As the rotisserie turns, the outer layers of the chicken become beautifully crispy while the inside remains juicy and tender.
Once cooked, the meat is shaved off in thin slices and served on warm pita bread, one of the many types of shawarma bread. Many variations of toppings and sauces are served with the dish. For example, garlic sauce, tahini sauce, pickled turnips, and cucumber are the common ones.
This combination of creamy, tangy flavors is a good combination that goes well with the savory flavor of chicken.
2. Lamb Shawarma
For those who prefer a heartier and more robust flavor, lamb shawarma is the ideal choice. Like its chicken counterpart, lamb is marinated to infuse it with bold flavors. The marinade often features ingredients like olive oil, garlic, cumin, coriander, and allspice, ensuring the meat is rich and aromatic. Some recipes also include a splash of vinegar or lemon juice for a tangy kick.
Lamb is typically cooked on the same vertical rotisserie. This is prepared using a machine, and the process of slow cooking makes the meat tender and still retains the juices.
Served warm with fresh vegetables and great sauces, pita breadaccompanies lamb shawarma, making it taste rich and filling. Tahini, a sesame paste condiment, is one of the favorite toppings for lamb due to its nutty flavor, which does well with the meat. Sometimes, it includes diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and a healthy amount of garlic sauce.
Key Ingredients and Toppings | Different Types of Shawarma
The secret to the success of chicken shawarma and lamb shawarma is the reliance on fresh, quality ingredients. Marination is an important step in which the meat absorbs the depth of flavor. A blend of spices, olive oil, and lemon juice
The bread used for shawarma is equally important. Pita bread, known for its soft texture and versatility, is the most common choice. Other types of shawarma bread, such as flatbreads, can also be used to wrap or serve the meat.
Toppings and sauces complete the dish, with tahini sauce, garlic sauce, and pickled vegetables like turnips and cucumbers offered in a perfect balance of tangy, nutty, and creamy flavors.
Shawarma vs. Doner Kebab | Different Types of Shawarma
Although shawarma and doner kebab may bear some similarities, there are still differences that separate the two. For example, the spice blend in shawarma is more intricate and complex in flavor. Shawarma is also served with tahini or garlic sauce, which are not commonly used in the doner kebab.
Additionally, doner kebabs often rely on simpler seasonings and are paired with yogurt-based sauces. Both dishes are cooked on vertical rotisseries, but their flavor profiles and accompaniments set them apart.
FAQs About Different Types of Shawarma
Are there different types of shawarma?
Yes, there are numerous different types of shawarma, primarily based on the meat used. Popular options include chicken shawarma and lamb shawarma, but regional variations like Turkish shawarma and Lebanese shawarma bring unique flavors and styles to the dish.
What is the difference between Turkish shawarma and Lebanese shawarma?
The primary difference lies in the seasoning and accompaniments. Turkish shawarma, also known as doner kebab, often has simpler spices and is served with yogurt-based sauces. In contrast, Lebanese shawarma features complex spice blends and is typically paired with tahini sauce and pickled vegetables.
What is the difference between Iraqi and Lebanese shawarma?
The Iraqi shawarma often contains some specific spices and is accompanied by amba, a sour mango pickle sauce. This gives it a taste that is far from similar to the others. This gives it a taste that is far from similar to the others.
Commonly known for the garlic sauce, the Lebanese variety also comes dressed with tahini sauce and adorned with fresh and pickled vegetables.
Conclusion
Whether you enjoy the light and juicy flavor of chicken shawarma or the heavy, rich flavor of lamb shawarma, this street food finds space for every lover of good food across the board. With its diverse toppings, sauces, and bread options, shawarma is a versatile and satisfying dish that continues to win hearts across the globe.
Experiment with the various types of shawarma rolls and toppings to discover your perfect combination! If you are looking for delicious Middle Eastern food in Pennsylvania, you should visit Shawarma Kebab, a family-owned restaurant serving Mediterranean and Middle Eastern food. They are devoted to preparing halal meat and serving delicious food. Visit their restaurant now to enhance your culinary experience.
