Syrian Shawarma

Shawarma in Syrian shops is made from layers of meat on a rotating upright spit, shaved into bread or served on a plate. Omayah Atassi recalls neighbourhood shops distinguished by their meat seasoning and sauces. Pickles, vegetables and yogurt sauce accompany the lamb sandwich she describes.^[1]

Her home adaptation uses boneless lamb shoulder cut into strips and cooked in a covered roasting pan. The seasoning includes apple cider vinegar, garlic, ground mastic, olive oil, crushed red pepper, nutmeg and Worcestershire sauce. The pan is uncovered toward the end to reduce the cooking liquid. The meat is served with yogurt sauce or hummus, pita, pickles, tomato and cucumber, or beside rice or salad.^[1]