The Classic Beef Shawarma & Fries Platter is a celebration of flavor that perfectly captures the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine. With its tender, spiced beef and crispy fries, this dish is a delightful combination that appeals to both the palate and the appetite. Shawarma, with its roots steeped in rich culinary tradition, is crafted by marinating thinly sliced beef in a tantalizing mix of spices and herbs before cooking it on a vertical rotisserie. The result is a succulent meat that is packed with flavor, offering a taste experience that transports you to the vibrant streets of the Middle East.
Accompanying the beef are golden, crispy fries, which add a satisfying crunch to every bite. The fries serve as a perfect contrast to the tenderness of the shawarma, making the platter an excellent choice for sharing or enjoying solo. Often served with fresh vegetables, tangy pickles, and zesty sauces, the platter is not only visually appealing but also a delightful harmony of flavors and textures. It’s a dish that invites you to dig in and savor every moment, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual meals with friends.
What makes the Classic Beef Shawarma & Fries Platter truly special is its versatility. You can easily customize it with your favorite toppings and sauces, whether you prefer a rich garlic sauce, spicy chili sauce, or creamy tahini. This adaptability allows for a personalized touch, ensuring that each serving is just as unique as the person enjoying it. Whether you’re relishing it at a lively restaurant or preparing it in your own kitchen, this platter is sure to leave a lasting impression.
How Many Calories Are in the Classic Beef Shawarma & Fries Platter?
When indulging in the Classic Beef Shawarma & Fries Platter, it’s natural to wonder about its nutritional content, especially its calorie count. A typical serving of this mouthwatering dish contains approximately 700 to 800 calories. The majority of these calories come from the marinated beef, which is rich in protein and flavor, as well as the crispy fries that provide a satisfying crunch. While it’s a hearty meal, it’s important to remember that these calories are well-earned through a combination of quality ingredients and delicious preparation.
In addition to its calorie content, the Classic Beef Shawarma & Fries Platter offers a range of nutritional benefits. The beef provides essential protein, which is crucial for muscle repair and overall health. The fries, though indulgent, can be enjoyed in moderation, especially when prepared using healthier cooking methods like baking or air-frying. Topping it off with fresh vegetables and a drizzle of sauce can enhance the meal’s nutritional profile, making it a delicious option that doesn’t compromise on flavor while still being mindful of your dietary choices.
What is Classic Shawarma Made Of?
Classic shawarma is a beloved Middle Eastern dish known for its rich flavors and tender meat. Traditionally, shawarma is made by marinating meat in a blend of spices, herbs, and sometimes yogurt, which helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. The marinated meat is then stacked on a vertical rotisserie and slowly cooked as it turns. This method allows the outer layer to crisp up while keeping the inside juicy. Shawarma is often served in a flatbread, like pita or laffa, with an array of toppings and sauces, making it a versatile meal that can cater to various tastes.
In addition to the meat, classic shawarma is often accompanied by a variety of fresh vegetables and condiments. Common toppings include sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, pickles, and onions, which add crunch and freshness to the dish. The sauces typically used are tahini, garlic sauce, or spicy chili sauce, which complement the savory flavors of the meat. The combination of marinated meat, fresh vegetables, and flavorful sauces creates a balanced and satisfying meal that is popular worldwide.
What is Beef Shawarma Made Of?
Beef shawarma is a specific variation of the classic shawarma, featuring beef as the primary protein. The beef used for shawarma is typically sliced thinly, which allows for quick cooking and easy marination. Common cuts for beef shawarma include sirloin or flank steak, known for their tenderness and flavor. The beef is marinated in a mixture of spices such as cumin, coriander, paprika, and cinnamon, combined with olive oil and lemon juice. This marinade not only enhances the beef’s flavor but also tenderizes it, resulting in a juicy and flavorful dish.
Like other shawarma variations, beef shawarma is served with an array of accompaniments. It is often wrapped in flatbreads and served with a selection of fresh vegetables, like lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Condiments such as garlic sauce, tahini, and pickled vegetables are also common additions, adding layers of flavor and texture to the dish. This combination of marinated beef, fresh vegetables, and flavorful sauces makes beef shawarma a popular choice for those looking for a hearty and delicious meal.
What are Shawarma Fries Made Of?
Shawarma fries are a delightful twist on traditional fries, infused with the rich flavors of shawarma spices. Typically, they are made from fresh potatoes that are cut into fry shapes and seasoned with a blend of spices commonly used in shawarma, such as cumin, paprika, and garlic powder. The potatoes are then tossed in oil and baked or fried until they are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. This preparation creates a delicious side dish that perfectly complements the savory flavors of shawarma.
In addition to the spices, shawarma fries can be topped with various ingredients to enhance their flavor. Some popular toppings include garlic sauce, tahini, or even shredded meat from the shawarma itself. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can also be sprinkled on top for added color and freshness. This combination of crispy fries and flavorful toppings makes shawarma fries a popular choice for a snack or side dish, providing a delicious contrast to the juicy, spiced meat of traditional shawarma.
What Meat is Traditionally Used in Shawarma?
Shawarma is traditionally made using a variety of meats, depending on regional preferences and culinary traditions. The most common types of meat used in shawarma are lamb, chicken, beef, and turkey. Each type brings its unique flavor and texture to the dish. For instance, lamb shawarma is known for its rich and succulent flavor, often enhanced by the spices used in its marinade. Chicken shawarma, on the other hand, is lighter and tends to absorb flavors well, making it a favorite among those who prefer poultry.
While the choice of meat can vary, the preparation method remains consistent across different types. The meat is marinated, stacked on a vertical rotisserie, and cooked slowly to ensure tenderness and flavor. The outer layer is shaved off as it cooks, providing freshly cooked meat for each serving. This technique not only creates a delicious dish but also adds a unique visual appeal to shawarma, making it a popular street food and restaurant offering in many countries around the world.
Classic Beef Shawarma & Fries Platter
Course: Main CourseCuisine: Middle EasternDifficulty: Medium4
servings30
minutes40
minutes650
kcalIngredients
- For the Beef Shawarma:
500g beef (thinly sliced, preferably sirloin or flank)
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground coriander
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
- For the Fries:
4 large potatoes (cut into fries)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Salt to taste
Optional: paprika or garlic powder for seasoning
- For the Garnish:
1 cup parsley (chopped)
1 cucumber (sliced)
1 tomato (diced)
½ red onion (thinly sliced)
Lemon wedges for serving
Tahini sauce or garlic sauce (optional)
Directions
- Marinate the Beef: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Add the sliced beef and mix well to ensure it’s evenly coated. Allow the beef to marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor).
- Prepare the Fries: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, toss the cut potatoes with vegetable oil, salt, and any additional seasonings like paprika or garlic powder. Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Cook the Beef: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef in batches (if necessary) to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the beef is browned and cooked through, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
- Prepare the Garnish: While the beef is cooking, chop the parsley and prepare the salad by mixing the cucumber, tomato, and red onion in a bowl. Set aside.
- Assemble the Platter: On a large serving plate, create a bed of fries. Arrange the cooked beef shawarma on one side of the plate. Scatter the chopped parsley and prepared salad around the platter for freshness and color.
- Serve: Add lemon wedges and a drizzle of tahini sauce or garlic sauce if desired. Enjoy your Classic Beef Shawarma & Fries platter while it’s warm!
Notes
- For the best results, allow the beef to marinate for a longer time to absorb the flavors fully. Cooking the fries in a single layer ensures they become crispy, so avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the shawarma before serving can enhance the flavors beautifully!
