How to make beef shawarma filipino style: the ultimate guide to tender and flavorful meat

Craving the tantalizing flavors of Middle Eastern shawarma with a uniquely Filipino twist? Look no further! This comprehensive guide will walk you through the art of making authentic beef shawarma, Filipino style. From marinating the meat to grilling it to perfection, we’ll cover every step in detail to ensure you create a mouthwatering masterpiece that will delight your taste buds.

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

• 1 kg beef (sirloin or flank steak)
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup calamansi juice (or lemon juice)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste

For the Shawarma:

• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 tomato, sliced
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1/2 cup parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• Pita bread
• Tahini sauce (optional)
• Garlic sauce (optional)

Instructions

#1. Marinate the Beef

• In a large bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients. Stir until well blended.
• Add the beef to the marinade and toss to coat.
• Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible.

#2. Grill the Beef

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
• Remove the beef from the marinade and discard the marinade.
• Thread the beef onto skewers and grill for 10-15 minutes, or until cooked to your desired doneness.

#3. Prepare the Vegetables

• While the beef is grilling, slice the onion, bell peppers, tomato, and cucumber.
• Chop the parsley and cilantro.

#4. Assemble the Shawarma

• Warm the pita bread in the microwave or on the grill.
• Spread a layer of tahini sauce or garlic sauce on the pita bread (optional).
• Add some of the grilled beef, followed by the sliced vegetables and herbs.
• Roll up the pita bread and enjoy!

Tips

• For a more tender shawarma, marinate the beef for longer.
• If you don’t have skewers, you can grill the beef in a grill pan.
• Don’t overcook the beef, as it will become tough.
• Serve the shawarma with additional tahini sauce, garlic sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Variations

• Use chicken or lamb instead of beef.
• Add other vegetables to your shawarma, such as carrots, celery, or radishes.
• Swap out the pita bread for tortillas or naan bread.

Accompaniments

• Serve your shawarma with a side of hummus, baba ghanoush, or tabbouleh.
• Add a dollop of yogurt or sour cream to the shawarma for extra flavor.
• Garnish the shawarma with a sprinkle of sumac or za’atar.

The Perfect Wrap-Up

Congratulations on mastering the art of making beef shawarma, Filipino style! This flavorful and versatile dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Experiment with different marinades, vegetables, and accompaniments to create your own unique shawarma masterpiece.

FAQ

Q: Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen beef, but thaw it completely before marinating it.

Q: How long can I marinate the beef?
A: You can marinate the beef for as little as 4 hours or as long as overnight.

Q: What is the best way to grill the beef?
A: For the best results, grill the beef over medium-high heat. This will create a nice char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.

Q: Can I make this shawarma in a pan?
A: Yes, you can make this shawarma in a grill pan or even a regular frying pan. Just make sure to adjust the heat accordingly.

Q: What is the best way to serve shawarma?
A: Shawarma is traditionally served in a pita bread, but you can also use tortillas or naan bread. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!