By Ify Mgbemena
There’s a special kind of joy that comes with biting into a perfectly made shawarma — the soft warm wrap, the tender spiced chicken, the crunch of fresh vegetables, and that creamy, tangy sauce that ties everything together. Shawarma has earned its place as one of Nigeria’s favourite fast-food treats, loved for its convenience, bold flavours, and satisfying layers.
Originally a Middle Eastern delicacy, Nigerian shawarma has evolved into its own irresistible version — often richer, spicier, and loaded with more fillings. Whether made with chicken, beef, or a mix of both, a good shawarma is all about seasoning, balance, and proper layering.
If you’ve ever wanted to recreate that street-style magic in your kitchen, here’s a simple, foolproof guide to making delicious homemade shawarma.
Ingredients for Homemade Shawarma
For the Chicken/Beef Filling
• Chicken breast or beef strips (cut into thin strips)
• Vegetable oil
• Shawarma spice mix (or suya pepper + curry + paprika)
• Garlic (minced)
• Ginger (minced)
• Onion (sliced)
• Seasoning cubes – to taste
• Salt – to taste
• Lemon juice or vinegar – (optional, for marinating)
For the Sauce
• Mayonnaise
• Ketchup
• Chili sauce or suya pepper (adjust to heat preference)
For the Wrap
• Flour tortillas or shawarma bread
• Cabbage – sliced
• Carrot – grated or sliced
• Cucumber – sliced
• Onions – optional
• Sausages – fried or grilled
• Foil paper – for wrapping
How to Make Shawarma
1. Marinate and cook the protein
• Season your chicken or beef with shawarma spice, garlic, ginger, seasoning cubes, salt, and lemon/vinegar.
• Mix well and allow it to marinate for at least 30 minutes.
• Heat oil in a pan, add sliced onions, then stir-fry the chicken or beef until fully cooked and slightly browned.
2. Prepare the shawarma sauce
• In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, and chili sauce.
• Mix until smooth and creamy.
• Adjust spiciness depending on your preference.
3. Prep your fillings
• Slice cabbage, carrot, cucumber, and onions.
• Fry or grill the sausages until lightly browned.
4. Assemble the shawarma
• Place your tortilla or shawarma bread on a flat surface.
• Spread a generous layer of the shawarma sauce.
• Add your cooked chicken or beef, then layer with cabbage, carrot, cucumber, onions, and sausages.
• Drizzle a little more sauce for extra flavor.
5. Wrap and toast
• Roll the shawarma tightly and wrap it in foil paper.
• Toast it on a dry pan or sandwich press for 3–5 minutes to help it seal and warm up beautifully.
With these simple steps, you can enjoy rich, flavorful shawarma right from your kitchen — perfect for a quick dinner, a movie-night treat, or entertaining friends. Homemade shawarma gives you control over spices, freshness, and fillings, ensuring every bite is exactly the way you love it.
