Prepare to be whisked away on an adventure as you enter a hidden gem of a Middle Eastern restaurant in Columbus. The star of the evening? Keto Lebanese beef shawarma – succulent strips of marinated flank steak infused with aromatic spices. Get ready to uncover the secrets behind this tantalizing dish and recreate the magic in your kitchen. So, are you ready to savor the flavors of the Middle East and embark on a culinary journey like no other?
I walked through the doors of a Middle Eastern restaurant in the vibrant city of Columbus. I was full of eager anticipation for an evening of exotic flavors and discoveries. The air was full of the enticing scents of spices, setting the stage for an unforgettable culinary adventure that awaited me.
As I settled into my seat, a waiter approached with my order. She gracefully presented a dish that would soon become the centerpiece of my evening. The beef shawarma lay before me. It was a masterpiece of succulent strips of thinly sliced flank steak, perfectly marinated and infused with a tantalizing blend of spices. The aromas enveloped the table, captivating my senses and fueling my curiosity about the story behind this remarkable creation.
Meanwhile, just as I was about to take my first bite, the restaurant’s owner, called upon one of the waitresses, known for her mesmerizing singing voice. Consequently, the room hushed as her melodious voice reverberated through the air, filling every corner with its soul-stirring resonance. The combination of music and cuisine wove a spellbinding tapestry, creating an atmosphere where time seemed to stand still.
Moved by the enchantment of the evening, I couldn’t resist the temptation to approach the chef. I was determined to uncover the secrets behind the keto beef shawarma’s allure. I made my request, seeking the recipe that had tantalized my taste buds and left me yearning for more. As a result, the chef hesitated as if guarding a precious treasure, unsure whether to reveal the recipe. However, my sincere enthusiasm and unwavering passion eventually persuaded her to share the secrets.
To recreate the magic of beef shawarma, you will need the following ingredients: flank steak cut into very thin strips, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, shawarma seasoning, onion, All Spice, cumin, salt, ground cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, oregano, paprika. In addition, for the topping, you will need sumac spice, tomato, parsley, and pickles.
Beef shawarma pairs wonderfully with various side dishes and accompaniments, allowing you to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Here are some traditional options to consider. For example:
Baba ganoush: Made from roasted eggplant, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice, baba ganoush adds a smoky and creamy element to the meal. Enjoy it as a dip or as a side dish.
Garlic sauce: A staple in Lebanese cuisine, garlic sauce, or toum, is a creamy condiment made from garlic, lemon juice, oil, and salt. Its bold flavor adds a delightful kick to the shawarma lettuce wraps.
Pickled turnips: These vibrant pink pickles add a tangy and slightly spicy element to the meal. Their crisp texture and unique flavor profile perfectly complement the beef shawarma.
Grilled vegetables: Fire up the grill and prepare a medley of grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant. Their smoky and charred flavors add a delicious contrast to the tender beef.
Remember, these suggestions are just the beginning, and you can explore other Middle Eastern sides and condiments to customize your meal according to your preferences. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and textures as you savor your beef shawarma with various delectable accompaniments.
So, here is how I created the beef shawarma at home.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds flank steak, cut into very thin strips
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Shawarma seasoning
- 1 onion, sliced
Shawarma lettuce wrap toppings:
- 1 small onion, cut into wedges and mixed with 1 teaspoon of sumac spice
- 1 tomato, diced
- Parsley chopped
- Pickles
How to make keto Lebanese beef shawarma?
- To prepare the marinade, whisk the shawarma seasoning, olive oil, and apple cider vinegar in a large bowl until well combined.
- Carefully combine the sliced onions and flank steak strips in the bowl, ensuring that every piece is evenly coated with the delicious marinade, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 1-2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
- Heat a large cast iron pan or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until it becomes hot. Transfer the marinated beef strips from the bowl to the hot pan and cook for about 8-10 minutes or until the beef is cooked through. Flip the beef strips occasionally using tongs to ensure you cook them evenly on all sides.
- Once the beef is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes.
As you conclude your culinary voyage, inspired by the captivating flavors of Lebanese beef shawarma, let the lingering aromas and tantalizing tastes serve as a reminder of the magical possibilities that await in Middle Eastern cuisine. With each bite, you have savored not just a dish but a cultural experience, where the richness of spices, the succulence of marinated beef, and the vibrant accompaniments have woven a tapestry of delight. Embrace the spirit of adventure and continue to explore the diverse world of flavors, letting your taste buds guide you to new discoveries and cherished memories around the table!
By the way, this salad goes really well with keto baba ganoush
Get the recipe now (by clicking the image):
