Shawarma seasoning recipe is your ticket to a world of vibrant flavors that will elevate any meal! Imagine a delightful blend of warm spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika, mingling with garlic and a hint of cinnamon, creating a symphony of taste that dances on your palate. This easy-to-make seasoning is perfect for marinating chicken, beef, or even veggies, infusing them with mouthwatering aromas that will have everyone asking for seconds. Sprinkle it on your favorite dishes, and watch as they transform into a culinary adventure that brings the essence of the Middle East right to your kitchen!
Table of Contents
Table of Contents

shawarma seasoning recipe
Equipment
- 1 measuring spoon For measuring spices.
- 1 small bowl For mixing the spices.
- 1 whisk or fork For blending the spices.
- 1 Airtight Container For storing the seasoning.
Ingredients
Spices
- 1 tablespoon cumin Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
- 1 tablespoon coriander Brings a citrusy note.
- 1 tablespoon paprika Contributes a sweet and smoky flavor.
- 1 teaspoon turmeric Offers a vibrant color.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Infuses a rich, savory depth.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder Adds sweetness and enhances umami.
- 0.5 teaspoon cinnamon Provides a warm, sweet undertone.
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper Adds mild heat and depth.
Salt
- to taste teaspoon salt Enhances all flavors.
Instructions
Gather Your Spices
- Collect all the spices you’ll need: cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, garlic powder, onion powder, cinnamon, and black pepper.
Measure It Out
- Use a measuring spoon to scoop out 1 tablespoon of cumin, 1 tablespoon of coriander, 1 tablespoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of turmeric, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper.
Mix It Up
- In a small bowl, combine all the measured spices. Stir them together with a whisk or a fork until they’re well blended.
Taste Test
- Take a tiny pinch of your seasoning mix and taste it. Adjust any spices if you want more kick or sweetness!
Store It Right
- Transfer your shawarma seasoning into an airtight container. Label it with the date and store it in a cool, dark place.
Spice Up Your Meals
- Now, sprinkle your homemade shawarma seasoning on chicken, beef, or veggies before grilling or roasting. Enjoy the deliciousness!
Why You’ll Love This Shawarma Seasoning Recipe
- Transform your meals with a burst of authentic Middle Eastern flavor.
- Easy to make with pantry staples—no special ingredients required!
- Customize the spice levels to suit your taste—make it mild or fiery!
- Perfect for marinating meats, veggies, or even sprinkling on salads.
- Store it for later use and enjoy the convenience of homemade seasoning!
Recipe Snapshot
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Category: | Seasoning |
Cuisine: | Middle Eastern |
Prep Time: | 10 minutes |
Cook Time: | 0 minutes |
Total Time: | 10 minutes |
Dietary: | Gluten-free, Vegan |
Serves: | Makes about 1/2 cup |
Best Served: | With meats, veggies, or dips |
Ingredients for Shawarma Seasoning Recipe
- Cumin – adds a warm, earthy flavor that’s essential in shawarma.
- Coriander – brings a citrusy note that brightens the spice blend.
- Paprika – contributes a sweet and smoky flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
- Turmeric – offers a vibrant color and a subtle bitterness.
- Garlic powder – infuses a rich, savory depth to the seasoning.
- Onion powder – adds sweetness and enhances the umami profile.
- Cinnamon – provides a warm, sweet undertone that balances the spices.
- Black pepper – adds a mild heat and depth to the flavor.
- Allspice – introduces a complex flavor reminiscent of cloves and nutmeg.
- Salt – enhances all the flavors and brings the seasoning together.

Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Shawarma Seasoning Recipe
Get ready to create your very own shawarma seasoning! Follow these simple steps for a flavor explosion.
Step 1: Gather Your Spices
Collect all the spices you’ll need: cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, garlic powder, onion powder, cinnamon, and black pepper.
Step 2: Measure It Out
Use a measuring spoon to scoop out 1 tablespoon of cumin, 1 tablespoon of coriander, 1 tablespoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of turmeric, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, ½ teaspoon of cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper.
Step 3: Mix It Up
In a small bowl, combine all the measured spices. Stir them together with a whisk or a fork until they’re well blended.
Step 4: Taste Test
Take a tiny pinch of your seasoning mix and taste it. Adjust any spices if you want more kick or sweetness!
Step 5: Store It Right
Transfer your shawarma seasoning into an airtight container. Label it with the date and store it in a cool, dark place.
Step 6: Spice Up Your Meals
Now, sprinkle your homemade shawarma seasoning on chicken, beef, or veggies before grilling or roasting. Enjoy the deliciousness!

Pro Tips for Making the Shawarma Seasoning Recipe
• Use fresh spices for the best flavor—old spices can lose their potency.
• Toast whole spices lightly before grinding to enhance their aroma.
• Adjust the heat level by varying the amount of cayenne or paprika.
• Store your seasoning in an airtight container to keep it fresh longer.
• Experiment with adding a pinch of sugar for a subtle sweetness that balances the spices.
How to Serve Shawarma Seasoning Recipe
Get ready to elevate your meals with these delicious serving suggestions!
- Sprinkle shawarma seasoning on grilled chicken or beef for a flavor-packed main dish.
- Mix it into yogurt or tahini for a zesty dip that pairs perfectly with pita bread.
- Use it to season roasted vegetables for a Middle Eastern twist on your sides.
- Add a dash to your hummus for an extra kick that will impress your guests.
- Incorporate it into rice or quinoa dishes for a fragrant and tasty grain bowl.
- Top salads with shawarma-seasoned chickpeas for a protein boost and bold flavor.
- Use it as a rub for grilled fish, enhancing the dish with aromatic spices.
- Mix it into marinades for tofu or tempeh for a delicious plant-based option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Proper storage can help you enjoy your shawarma seasoning for longer. Here’s how to keep it fresh!
Storing Leftovers
• Allow the seasoning to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
• Portion the seasoning into small freezer bags.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Label each bag with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to a year for best quality.
Reheating
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before use.
• Reheat in a skillet over low heat to restore flavor.
• Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
• Avoid high heat to prevent burning the spices.
FAQs
What spices are essential for a shawarma seasoning recipe?
A good shawarma seasoning typically includes spices like cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, and garlic powder. These spices create a warm, aromatic blend that enhances the flavor of meats and vegetables.
Can I adjust the spice levels in my shawarma seasoning?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or chili powder. For a spicier kick, feel free to add more. Tailor the seasoning to your taste!
How should I store my homemade shawarma seasoning?
Store your shawarma seasoning in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. This will help preserve its flavors and freshness for several months.
Can I use shawarma seasoning on vegetables?
Yes, shawarma seasoning works wonderfully on vegetables! Toss your favorite veggies with the seasoning before roasting or grilling for a delicious, flavorful side dish.
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