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Shawarma Spice Blend

Serves about 1/2 cup Spice Mix vegan, Spice Mixes, shawarma

Shawarma Spice Blend

Shawarma spice blend is a cornerstone of Middle Eastern street food, particularly celebrated in Lebanon and throughout the Levant. Traditionally, it flavors meats slowly turning on a rotisserie, infusing them with its rich aroma. This spice blend is not tied to a specific occasion but is enjoyed as a beloved everyday meal, often wrapped in warm flatbread with fresh vegetables and tahini sauce.

The blend combines earthy cumin, smoky paprika, and the warm, golden hue of turmeric with the subtle heat of garlic powder and the depth of cinnamon. Each bite should deliver a harmonious balance of savory and sweet, with just the right amount of salt to enhance the natural flavors of the meat.

Ingredients

  • 2 tbspcumin
  • 1 tbsppaprika
  • 1 tbspturmeric
  • 1 tbspgarlic powder
  • 1 tbspfine sea salt
  • 1 tspcinnamon

Method

  1. Begin by placing a small, dry skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tbsp cumin, 1 tbsp paprika, 1 tbsp turmeric, 1 tbsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp fine sea salt, and 1 tsp cinnamon to the skillet. Stir the spices continuously with a wooden spoon to ensure even toasting. You'll know the spices are ready when they release a warm, aromatic fragrance and the cumin seeds start to darken slightly.
  2. Once the spices are toasted, remove the skillet from the heat immediately to prevent burning. Transfer the spices to a cool, dry plate or bowl to stop the cooking process. Allow the spices to cool completely before proceeding to the next step.
  3. After the spices have cooled, if you prefer a finer texture, grind them using a spice grinder or a mortar and pestle until they reach your desired consistency. Alternatively, if you prefer a coarser blend, simply mix the spices thoroughly in a bowl to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
  4. Transfer the prepared Shawarma Spice Blend into an airtight container. Make sure the container is clean and dry to preserve the freshness of the spices. Store the container in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or cupboard, to protect the spices from light and moisture.
  5. For the best aroma and flavor, use the Shawarma Spice Blend within a few months. This blend is perfect for seasoning meats for rotisserie cooking or adding a Middle Eastern flair to various dishes.
Cover of Authentic Middle Eastern Cuisine
From the cookbook

Authentic Middle Eastern Cuisine

This recipe is from Authentic Middle Eastern Cuisine by Yassine Sbiti — the Middle Eastern volume in the ComidaTime International Cuisines series.

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