Kebabs are a favourite dish worldwide. With so many cultures adopting their own variety, you are spoilt for choice.

The chicken shawarma has become a worldwide favourite. It’s a combination of marinated meat, aromatic spices, and savoury condiments lauded for its rich flavour. But where did this delicious dish originate, and how did it become a global phenomenon?

Today we explore the history of chicken Shawarma’s roots and journey to becoming a modern favourite.

The Birthplace of Shawarma 

The term "Shawarma" is derived from the Turkish word “çevirme,” which means "turning" - a reference to its method of cooking. Shawarma’s origins can be traced back to the Ottoman Empire in the 19th century. It began as a variation of the traditional Turkish döner kebab, where marinated meat was stacked in a cone-like shape on a vertical rotisserie and slowly roasted.

Influences and Evolution  

While Turkey is credited with creating the original döner kebab, the concept of roasting meat on a vertical spit spread throughout history, particularly in Greece and the Middle East, leading to regional adaptations and the creation of Shawarma as we know it today. Countries like Lebanon, Israel, Egypt, and several others added their unique touch to the dish, incorporating local spices, marinades, and serving styles. 

Shawarma's Journey to the World Stage  

The 20th century saw significant migration from Middle Eastern countries to Europe and the Americas. Immigrants brought their culinary traditions with them, including the infamous Shawarma. Shawarmas quickly made their way onto menus in cities with large Middle Eastern populations and swiftly gained popularity, first within the immigrant communities and then with the broader public. Today, you can find the Shawarma in food trucks, high-end restaurants, and fast-food chains worldwide.

_______________________________________________________________________________________ Must read: The Cultural Significance of Meat In Cuisine ______________________________________________________________________________________

Health-Conscious Choices: Organic and Halal Chicken Shawarma

The Shawarma originates from an Islamic country, so it is naturally a halal dish that ensures ethical and humane treatment of animals. As dietary awareness grows, more people are seeking organic options for lamb, beef or chicken as they are raised without synthetic pesticides, growth hormones, or antibiotics, offering a healthier alternative to conventionally raised meats. Organic produce is considered by most to be better quality and healthier.  

Ordering Online For Convenience at Your Fingertips

Gone are the days when you had to traverse into town to find a local butcher for high-quality meat. With Halal Origins at the tip of your fingers, you are a few clicks away from ordering your favourite organic and halal meats, so you can enjoy dishes like Chicken Shawarma without compromising your dietary values. After all, life is too short to wait around or miss out.
That said, dive into our very own recipe.

Halal Chicken Shawarma Wraps with Garlic Sauce

Ingredients 

  • 500g organic halal chicken thighs, thinly sliced (works beef and lamb too)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil 
  • Juice of 1 lemon 
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced 
  • 1 tsp ground cumin 
  • 1 tsp ground coriander 
  • 1 tsp ground turmeric 
  • 1 tsp paprika 
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon 
  • Salt and pepper to taste 

    • For the Garlic Sauce 

  • 1 cup Greek yoghurt 
  • 2 tbsp tahini 
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced 
  • Juice of 1 lemon 
  • Salt to taste 

    • To Serve 

  • Fresh pita bread or flatbreads 
  • Sliced tomatoes 
  • Sliced cucumbers 
  • Red onion, thinly sliced 
  • Fresh parsley, chopped 

    • Instructions 

    1. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices. Add the organic chicken slices and toss to coat the chicken with the mixture. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, but it’s best to leave it overnight for better flavour absorption.
    1. To make the garlic sauce, mix the yoghurt, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and salt in a small bowl. Refrigerate the mixture until you are ready to use it.
    1. Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes per side.
    1. Warm the pita bread or flatbreads on the grill or in a skillet.
    1. Assemble the wraps by spreading garlic sauce on the bread, adding the flavoured chicken slices, and topping with tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and fresh parsley.

    Roll up the wraps and enjoy! 

     

    Conclusion: 

    The chicken Shawarma is a fan favourite and is here to stay. It is more than just a meal, it's a window into the rich culinary traditions of Middle Eastern cultures. With Halal Origins, enjoying authentic Chicken Shawarma has never been easier or tastier. So, take your taste buds on a Middle-Eastern journey and order your organic halal chicken today before 3 pm and you can be biting into your chicken shawarma tomorrow. You can also try the same recipe with our organic lamb and beef options, so there is something for everyone.  

    Why limit yourself? Go all out and experiment with an array of flavours and don’t be afraid to try new herbs and spices for your own unique twist on this traditional dish.  

    Until next time, enjoy healthy eating.