Save Tender spiced beef strips wrapped in warm flatbread with fresh vegetables and a tangy creamy yogurt sauce is a true Middle Eastern street food classic that is sure to satisfy any hungry crowd.
The first time I made these beef shawarma wraps at home, everyone was surprised by how close they tasted to restaurant style. The homemade yogurt sauce really makes a difference and adds a delicious tang to each bite.
Ingredients
- Beef sirloin or flank steak: 500 g, thinly sliced
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Garlic cloves: 2, minced
- Ground cumin: 1 tsp
- Ground coriander: 1 tsp
- Ground paprika: 1 tsp
- Ground turmeric: 1/2 tsp
- Ground cinnamon: 1/2 tsp
- Cayenne pepper (optional): 1/4 tsp
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Lemon juice: Juice of 1 lemon
- Plain Greek yogurt: 200 g (3/4 cup)
- Tahini: 1 tbsp
- Garlic clove: 1, finely minced
- Lemon juice: Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Fresh parsley: 1 tbsp, chopped
- Salt: 1/4 tsp
- Freshly ground black pepper: to taste
- Flatbreads (pita, lavash, or tortillas): 4 large
- Red onion: 1 small, thinly sliced
- Tomato: 1 large, sliced
- Cucumber: 1/2, sliced into thin strips
- Lettuce: 1 cup, shredded
- Fresh mint or parsley leaves (optional): as desired
Instructions
- Marinate Beef:
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Add beef strips and toss to coat. Marinate for at least 20 minutes, up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
- Prepare Yogurt Sauce:
- In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, tahini, minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning and refrigerate.
- Cook Beef:
- Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high. Cook marinated beef in batches for 4 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat.
- Warm Flatbreads:
- Warm flatbreads in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable.
- Assemble Wraps:
- Spread yogurt sauce on each flatbread. Top with beef, onion, tomato, cucumber, lettuce, and herbs.
- Serve:
- Roll up wraps tightly. Serve immediately with extra yogurt sauce.
Save This recipe has become a family favorite whenever we want something cozy and flavorful without ordering takeout. Sharing these wraps with loved ones always brings warm smiles and everyone reaches for seconds.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the beef shawarma wraps with mint lemonade or a crisp white wine for a refreshing pairing. They also go great with baked fries or a side salad.
Customization Ideas
For a different direction, chicken or lamb works beautifully instead of beef. Feel free to add pickled turnips or spicy chili sauce for a fun twist.
Storage and Leftovers
Wraps are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store beef and sauce separately in airtight containers. Rewarm beef and build the wraps when ready to serve.
Save These beef shawarma wraps are packed with flavor and perfect for sharing at any gathering. Enjoy every bite and make them your own!
Recipe FAQ
- → What spices are used for the beef marinade?
The beef is seasoned with cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, garlic, and lemon juice for a balanced, aromatic flavor.
- → How is the creamy sauce prepared?
The sauce combines Greek yogurt, tahini, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper, creating a tangy and smooth topping.
- → What type of flatbread works best?
Large flatbreads such as pita, lavash, or tortillas are ideal as they wrap easily and hold the fillings well.
- → Can I substitute the beef with other proteins?
Yes, chicken or lamb can be used as alternatives, offering a different yet equally delicious variation.
- → How should the wraps be served?
Serve immediately after rolling, optionally with extra yogurt sauce on the side and optionally garnished with fresh herbs or pickled veggies.