Shawarma

Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern street food consisting of seasoned meat—typically chicken, beef, or lamb—that is slow-roasted on a vertical rotisserie and then thinly sliced. The meat is commonly served in a pita or flatbread with toppings like tahini, hummus, pickles, and fresh vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Shawarma is a protein-rich dish, especially when made with lean poultry, but can be high in fat depending on the cut of meat and added sauces. A typical serving in a pita wrap generally ranges from 400 to 600 calories, providing iron, B vitamins, and fiber if loaded with vegetables.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	480 kcal
Protein	28 g
Carbs	42 g
Fat	22 g
Fiber	4 g
Sugar	5 g
Sodium	890 mg
Iron	4.5 mg
Calcium	120 mg
Potassium	380 mg
Vitamin C	15 mg
Vitamin A	250 IU
Vitamin B6	0.5 mg
Zinc	3.8 mg
Magnesium	45 mg

Per 1 wrap (approx. 250 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

The technique of vertical rotisserie cooking is thought to have been inspired by Ottoman soldiers who roasted meat on their shields over campfires. Nutritionally, the slow-roasting method allows excess fat to drip away, potentially making it a leaner option than many other fast-food styles.