Ingredients:
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or regular yogurt)
2 tablespoons tahini (sesame paste)
2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika adds extra flavor)
1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional, for color and depth)
1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1-2 tablespoons water (to thin the sauce, if necessary)
Instructions:
Combine Ingredients:
In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, tahini, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.
Add Flavorings:
Add the minced garlic, olive oil, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cayenne (if using), and salt and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined.
Adjust Consistency:
If the sauce is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Taste and Adjust:
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more lemon juice for extra tang or more cayenne for heat.
Chill (Optional):
For the best flavor, let the shawarma sauce sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving, so the flavors meld together.
Tips:
Tahini: If you don’t have tahini, you can substitute with a small amount of peanut butter, though it will alter the flavor slightly.
Heat Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preferred spice level. You can also use chili powder if you want a milder flavor.
Creaminess: Greek yogurt provides a thicker, creamier base for the sauce. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use regular yogurt, though it might not be as rich.
Shawarma Sauce is a versatile and delicious addition to chicken, beef, or lamb shawarma wraps, pita bread, salads, or roasted vegetables. This creamy, tangy sauce elevates your dish with authentic Middle Eastern flavors!
