Taste the middle east with our easy-to-follow chicken shawarma recipe with sumac

Chicken shawarma, a succulent and flavorful dish, has captivated taste buds worldwide. This Middle Eastern delicacy is renowned for its tender chicken, aromatic spices, and vibrant colors. Our chicken shawarma recipe with sumac adds a unique tangy twist to this classic, elevating its taste profile to new heights.

Embarking on a Culinary Journey

Our chicken shawarma recipe with sumac is not just a dish; it’s a culinary journey that transports you to the vibrant streets of the Middle East. With each bite, you’ll experience a symphony of flavors, aromas, and textures that will leave you craving for more.

Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors

To create this tantalizing dish, you’ll need:

• 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast (6-8 ounces)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon sumac
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion
• 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 4 small pita breads
• Tahini sauce (for serving)

Preparing the Chicken: The Foundation of Flavor

1. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken breast, olive oil, cumin, coriander, turmeric, black pepper, salt, sumac, minced garlic, and lemon juice.
2. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

Grilling the Chicken: Creating a Culinary Masterpiece

1. Preheat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat.
2. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any excess.
3. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

Assembling the Shawarma: A Culinary Tapestry

1. Warm the pita breads on the grill or in a toaster.
2. Spread a generous amount of tahini sauce on each pita bread.
3. Top with the sliced chicken, chopped red onion, tomatoes, and parsley.
4. Roll up the pita breads tightly and serve immediately.

Finishing Touches: Enhancing the Experience

Serve the chicken shawarma with sumac on a platter with additional tahini sauce for dipping. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges for a burst of citrusy brightness.

Variations: A Culinary Canvas

Feel free to experiment with different variations to create your own unique shawarma experience. Here are a few ideas:

• Add other vegetables such as grilled zucchini, peppers, or mushrooms.
• Use different types of bread, such as naan or flatbread.
• Try different sauces, such as hummus or garlic sauce.

The Health Benefits of Sumac: A Culinary Elixir

Sumac, a vibrant red spice, not only adds a tangy flavor to this recipe but also boasts several health benefits:

• Rich in antioxidants
• May help reduce inflammation
• May support heart health

Recommendations: A Culinary Triumph

Our chicken shawarma recipe with sumac is a testament to the vibrant and flavorful cuisine of the Middle East. With its tender chicken, aromatic spices, and refreshing sumac tang, this dish will tantalize your taste buds and transport you to a world of culinary delights.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best cut of chicken to use for shawarma?

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work well for shawarma.

2. Can I make the shawarma ahead of time?

• Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to overnight and cook it later. However, it’s best to assemble the shawarma just before serving.

3. What is a good substitute for sumac?

• If you don’t have sumac, you can use a mixture of lemon zest and paprika.

4. How spicy is this shawarma?

• The spice level is mild. You can adjust the amount of cumin and black pepper to your taste.

5. Can I use different vegetables in the shawarma?

• Yes, you can add other vegetables such as grilled zucchini, peppers, or mushrooms to your preference.