Transport your taste buds to the streets of the Middle East with this mouthwatering Doner Shawarma recipe. With tender, spiced minced meat, freshly made Saj bread, and a rich, savory sauce, this dish is the perfect blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re preparing a special dinner or just craving something delicious, this recipe will bring the authentic taste of shawarma right to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
For the Doner Shawarma:
- 500 grams minced meat (beef, lamb, or a combination)
- 1 medium onion, finely grated
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 tablespoons rusk (breadcrumbs)
- 1 tablespoon yogurt
For the Saj Bread:
- 1 1/2 cups warm milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 1/2 cups flour
For the Shawarma Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon flour
- 1 1/2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Doner Shawarma:
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the minced meat with the grated onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, rusk, and yogurt.
- Shape the Meat: Form the mixture into a loaf shape, tightly packing the meat to ensure it holds together. Wrap the loaf in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
- Cook the Meat: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Unwrap the meat and place it on a baking tray. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and slightly browned on the outside.
2. Make the Saj Bread:
- Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the warm milk and salt. Slowly incorporate the flour, stirring until the mixture begins to come together into a cohesive dough. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and work it by hand for approximately 10 minutes, or until it becomes soft, supple, and springy to the touch.
- Rest the Dough: Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Cook the Bread: Divide the dough into small balls (about the size of a golf ball). Roll each ball out into a thin circle on a lightly floured surface. Cook each circle of dough for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until lightly browned and puffed.
3. Prepare the Shawarma Sauce:
- Create the Base: In a small pot, warm the butter on medium heat until it’s fully melted. Gradually whisk in the flour, stirring constantly to form a smooth, thick paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color.
- Add the Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute, ensuring the roux and tomato paste are well combined.
- Add the Chicken Broth: Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
4. Assemble the Doner Shawarma:
- Fill the Saj Bread: Take a piece of freshly cooked Saj bread and layer it with thin slices of the baked Doner Shawarma meat.
- Add the Sauce: Drizzle the shawarma sauce over the meat, adding as much or as little as you like.
- Roll and Serve: Roll the Saj bread around the filling, creating a wrap. Serve the Doner Shawarma hot, with extra sauce on the side for dipping.
Conclusion:
This Ultimate Doner Shawarma with Homemade Saj Bread and Savory Shawarma Sauce is an explosion of flavors in every bite. The tender, spiced meat pairs perfectly with the soft, warm Saj bread, while the rich sauce ties everything together. This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves Middle Eastern cuisine and wants to recreate that authentic shawarma experience at home. Enjoy this delectable dish as a satisfying meal that will transport you to the heart of the Middle East.