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My homemade shawarma spice blend recipe is warm, savory, and smoky, offering all the flavors you want from the classic Mediterranean blend. Made with pantry staples, it’s gluten-free, sugar-free, and free from unnecessary preservatives. I love to prep a big batch to keep on hand to add flavor to all my favorite meals! Â
Better-Than-Store-Bought Shawarma Spice Blend
If you’re unfamiliar, shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern street food typically made with marinated chicken, beef, lamb, or veal stacked on a vertical rotisserie and cooked low and slow. The meat is heavily seasoned with a shawarma seasoning blend, giving it a unique savory flavor.
It’s one of my favorite foods ever, and I often make my easy skillet shawarma chicken and sheet pan salmon shawarma at home. With the use of my DIY shawarma spice blend recipe, they come out tasting just like the authentic versions with way less work. One taste, and you’ll be using this seasoning on everything!Â
Ingredients and Notes
*Scroll down to the recipe card for the full recipe and ingredient list!
- Cumin: Warm, earthy, and slightly nutty, this forms the base of the seasoning.Â
- Turmeric: A little goes a long way, adding a mild, slightly bitter taste and a bright, golden color.
- Coriander: Light and citrusy, this brightens the blend.Â
- Cinnamon: A small amount of ground cinnamon adds warmth and a hint of sweetness.Â
- Cardamom: Aromatic and slightly floral, this contributes to the distinct flavor we want in shawarma seasoning.Â
- Paprika: This adds mild sweetness and smoky undertones. Use sweet paprika for a milder flavor or smoked paprika for a bolder flavor.Â
- Cayenne: Use more or less depending on your spice preference.Â
- Garlic Powder: This provides savory flavor that ties everything together.Â
How to Make a Homemade Shawarma Spice Blend
- Combine ingredients: Whisk or stir all the spices in a small bowl or jar.Â
- Use: Proceed with your desired recipe. Or, store the seasoning mixture in an airtight container or glass jar at room temperature for up to 6 months.Â
Kitchen Tools I Use
My Favorite Ways to Use
This shawarma spice blend is incredibly versatile and adds bold, savory flavor to so many dishes. Here are some of my favorite ways to use it:
- Shawarma Chicken or Beef: Toss chicken thighs, breasts, or thinly sliced beef with olive oil, lemon juice, and a generous amount of the spice blend.Â
- Roasted Vegetables: Sprinkle the seasoning over cauliflower, carrots, sweet potatoes, or chickpeas before roasting for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Grain Bowls: Add a dash to quinoa, rice, or farro bowls with fresh veggies, hummus, and a drizzle of tahini or yogurt sauce.
- Dips and Sauces: Mix a pinch into Greek yogurt, loaded hummus, or mayo for a quick, flavorful dip or spread.
- Eggs and Breakfast: Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over scrambled eggs or air fryer roasted potatoes for a savory twist.
- Soups and Stews: Add a teaspoon or two to Instant Pot lentil soup, chicken soup, or stews for extra depth and warmth.
More Homemade Spice Blend Recipes
Shawarma Spice Blend
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons cumin
- 1 tablespoon turmeric
- 1 tablespoon coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a small bowl.
- Whisk or stir until fully combined.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
