Description
This creamy and flavorful Shawarma Sauce is a perfect blend of Greek yogurt, tangy lemon, and aromatic spices. Ideal as a dip, dressing, or accompaniment to chicken, beef, or lamb shawarma, this no-cook Middle Eastern sauce is both easy to prepare and versatile in use, with optional tahini for added richness and fresh herbs for a bright finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Base Ingredients
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Spices & Additions
- 1 tablespoon tahini (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Base Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the plain Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, fresh lemon juice, and minced garlic until smooth and well blended to create a creamy base.
- Add Tahini and Spices: Stir in the tahini if using, then add ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you prefer heat), salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all spices are evenly incorporated.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Sample the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed, adding extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your preference for balance and flavor depth.
- Chill to Meld Flavors: Cover the sauce and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to blend and intensify, ensuring a rich and harmonious taste.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro to add a pop of color and fresh herbal notes, then use as a sauce for shawarma, a dip, or dressing for wraps and salads.
Notes
- This creamy sauce pairs perfectly with chicken, beef, or lamb shawarma, enhancing their savory flavors.
- It also works well as a versatile dip or dressing for wraps, rice bowls, and salads.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute plant-based yogurt and mayonnaise to keep the creamy texture without dairy.
- If you prefer less heat, simply omit the cayenne pepper.
- Adjust the thickness by varying the amount of tahini or lemon juice according to your preference.
