A Taste of the Middle East: Lamb Shawarma Wrap with Tahini Sauce

Middle Eastern cuisine is known for its bold flavors, fragrant spices, and rich culinary history. One of the most beloved street foods in the region is lamb shawarma wrap, a dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. This Middle Eastern lamb recipe features succulent, spiced lamb, slow-roasted or pan-seared to perfection, wrapped in soft pita bread, and drizzled with creamy tahini sauce. It’s the perfect lunch lamb recipe for those who crave a hearty, satisfying meal packed with authentic Middle Eastern flavors.

Middle Eastern Lamb Shawarma Wrap with Tahini Sauce

DifficultyMedium

Servings4

Prep time20 minutes

Cook time25 minutes

Total time44 minutes

Middle Eastern Lamb Shawarma Wrap with Tahini Sauce

Ingredients

For the Lamb Shawarma:

  • 1 lb lamb leg or shoulder, thinly sliced
  • 3 tbsp greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 3 cloves garlic
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp ground coriander
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp ground tumeric
  • 1 tsp sal

For the Tahini Sauce:

  • 1/3 cup tahini
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/4 tsp salt

For the Wrap:

  • 4 pita breads or flatbreads
  • 1 cup shredded lettuces
  • 1/2 cup sliced cucumbers
  • 1/2 cup pickled red onions
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley
  • 1/2 cup hummus, (optional, for spreading on pita)

Let's Get Cooking!

Instructions:

  • 1

    Marinate the Lamb

    • In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and all the spices.
    • Add the thinly sliced lamb and coat well with the marinade.
    • Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best flavor).
  • 2

    Cook the Lamb

    Stovetop Method:

    • Heat a skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
    • Add the marinated lamb and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked.

    Oven Method:

    • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
    • Spread the marinated lamb on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • 3

    Make the Tahini Sauce

    • In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt.
    • Gradually add water, whisking until smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more water if needed.
  • 4

    Assemble the Wrap

    • Warm the pita bread on a skillet or directly over an open flame for a few seconds.
    • Spread a thin layer of hummus (if using) over the pita.
    • Add shredded lettuce, sliced cucumbers, and pickled onions.
    • Pile on the cooked lamb, drizzle with tahini sauce, and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
    • Fold the wrap tightly and serve immediately.

Equipment

Tips and Variations:

  • Make It Spicier: Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
  • Grill It: For extra smokiness, cook the lamb on an outdoor grill.
  • Make It a Bowl: Serve the lamb over rice or quinoa with tahini sauce.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Replace Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt for a dairy-free marinade.
  • Meal Prep: Store cooked lamb in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

Calories480
Carbohydrates42g
Fat20g
Fiber6g
Protein35g
Sodium650mg
Sugar3g

The Origins of Lamb Shawarma Wrap

Shawarma has a fascinating history, dating back to the Ottoman Empire. The word “shawarma” comes from the Turkish word “çevirme,” meaning “to turn,” referencing the traditional cooking method of slowly rotating meat on a spit. This cooking style spread throughout the Middle East, evolving into the beloved dish we know today.

The key to authentic Middle Eastern lamb shawarma lies in the marinade. A blend of warming spices such as cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and paprika infuses the lamb with deep, smoky flavors. Garlic, lemon juice, and yogurt tenderize the meat, ensuring each bite is juicy and bursting with flavor.

While traditional shawarma is cooked on a vertical rotisserie, this easy lamb shawarma wrap can be made in a skillet, oven, or grill, making it accessible to home cooks everywhere.

Why You’ll Love This Middle Eastern Lamb Recipe

  • Packed with Authentic Flavors: A perfectly balanced mix of Middle Eastern spices gives this dish its bold, aromatic taste.
  • Easy to Make at Home: No special equipment needed—just a skillet or oven.
  • Great for Meal Prep: Marinate the lamb overnight for a quick and flavorful lunch the next day.
  • Healthy and Satisfying: Lamb is rich in protein and essential nutrients, while tahini sauce adds healthy fats and creaminess.
  • Customizable: Serve it as a wrap, in a bowl over rice, or with a side of hummus and fresh salad.

Spatula Daddy

Hi! 👋 I’m Michael, here to bring bold flavors and real-world cooking know-how straight to your table!

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