Middle Eastern Recipe Book: Authentic Dishes to Savor

Exploring Middle Eastern cuisine is like embarking on a culinary journey filled with rich flavors, vibrant spices, and timeless traditions. Whether you’re new to this region’s food or a seasoned foodie looking to diversify your kitchen repertoire, a Middle Eastern recipe book is your perfect guide.

From the tangy freshness of tabbouleh to the smoky warmth of grilled kebabs, these recipes bring together ingredients that create unforgettable meals. With a focus on wholesome ingredients and balanced flavors, Middle Eastern dishes often combine grains, legumes, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs in unique and delicious ways.

In this blog post, we’ll dive into a classic Middle Eastern recipe that embodies the heart of the cuisine: Chicken Shawarma. This recipe is straightforward, packed with flavor, and perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

Beyond the recipe itself, we’ll also discuss why this dish is a must-try, the essential ingredients and equipment, step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and serving ideas. So, let’s get cooking and bring the magic of Middle Eastern flavors into your home kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Shawarma is a beloved street food across the Middle East, renowned for its tender, juicy meat infused with a symphony of spices. What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility and bold flavors, combining garlic, cumin, coriander, and turmeric to create a mouthwatering marinade.

It’s not only delicious but also healthier than many takeout options since you control the ingredients and cooking method.

Whether served wrapped in warm pita bread with fresh veggies and creamy tahini sauce or plated alongside fragrant rice and salad, this recipe is sure to please. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep, making it an excellent choice for busy households looking to enjoy wholesome, flavorful meals throughout the week.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, trimmed
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp plain yogurt (for tenderizing)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp ground cumin
• 1 tbsp ground coriander
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground allspice
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl for marinating
• Sharp knife for trimming and slicing chicken
• Measuring spoons for spices
• Cast iron skillet or grill pan for cooking
• Tongs for turning chicken
• Serving platter
• Optional: food processor if you prefer to finely mince garlic and parsley

Instructions

1. Prepare the marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, yogurt, olive oil, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, allspice, cayenne pepper, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until the spices are fully incorporated into the yogurt and oil.
2. Marinate the chicken: Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight to allow the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
3. Heat your skillet or grill pan: Place it over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
4. Cook the chicken: Remove chicken thighs from marinade, letting excess drip off. Place the chicken in the hot pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the meat is charred slightly on the outside.
5. Rest and slice: Transfer cooked chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice into thin strips against the grain for maximum tenderness.
6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the sliced chicken and serve immediately with your favorite accompaniments.

Tips & Variations

“Marinating the chicken overnight not only enhances flavor but also tenderizes the meat, making every bite juicy and delicious.”

• Spice it up: Add extra cayenne or a pinch of chili flakes if you prefer a spicier shawarma.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or marinated roasted cauliflower for a delicious vegetarian twist.
• Oven-baked option: If you don’t have a grill pan, bake the marinated chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
• Serving sauces: Tahini sauce, garlic sauce, or a simple yogurt-cucumber sauce complement this dish beautifully.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This chicken shawarma pairs wonderfully with a variety of traditional Middle Eastern sides. Serve it wrapped in warm pita bread with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and a drizzle of tahini sauce for a classic shawarma wrap experience.

Alternatively, plate the sliced chicken alongside fragrant basmati rice or couscous, with a side of fattoush salad or tabbouleh for a refreshing balance. Pickled turnips and olives also add the perfect tangy contrast.

For a lighter option, serve over a bed of mixed greens and drizzle with a garlic yogurt dressing. These serving ideas make this dish adaptable to any meal occasion.

Conclusion

Bringing the vibrant flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine into your kitchen is easier than you think with this Chicken Shawarma recipe. Its well-rounded blend of spices and tender texture make it a crowd-pleaser for both casual dinners and special occasions.

The recipe’s flexibility allows you to customize spice levels and serving styles, making it a versatile addition to your cooking repertoire.

By mastering this dish, you open the door to exploring many other Middle Eastern favorites that are equally rich in flavor and culture. For more inspiration, be sure to check out our other recipes like Classic Hummus, Falafel with Tahini Sauce, and Persian Saffron Rice.

Enjoy the delicious journey!

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