Dinner

Homemade Shawarma Seasoning Blend Recipe

Name: Homemade Shawarma Seasoning Blend Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 2 Tbsp Cumin; 2 Tbsp Paprika (or Smoked Paprika); 1 Tbsp Ground Coriander; 1 Tbsp Garlic Powder; 1 Tbsp Turmeric; 1 tsp Dried Oregano; 1 tsp Cardamom; 1 tsp Cinnamon; 2 tsp Salt; 2 tsp Pepper; 1/4 cup Shawarma Seasoning; 1/4 cup Olive Oil; 1/4 cup Lemon Juice

Bymia larkspur March 24, 2026March 24, 2026

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Shawarma seasoning is a fragrant blend of spices that brings the rich, bold flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine right into your kitchen. This versatile mix can be used as a rub, marinade, or seasoning for meats and vegetables, adding a warm, aromatic touch to your dishes.

A white speckled bowl filled with a single layer of finely ground spice mix in warm orange and brown tones, showing a textured mix with small flecks of seeds and herbs. A wooden spoon with a long handle is resting inside the bowl, scooping up a portion of the spice blend, with some of the mix spilled lightly around the bowl on a white marbled surface. A soft beige cloth is placed near the bottom right edge of the bowl, adding to the simple, natural setting. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 Tbsp Cumin
2 Tbsp Paprika (or Smoked Paprika)
1 Tbsp Ground Coriander
1 Tbsp Garlic Powder
1 Tbsp Turmeric
1 tsp Dried Oregano
1 tsp Cardamom
1 tsp Cinnamon
2 tsp Salt
2 tsp Pepper

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium-sized bowl, combine all the spices and mix thoroughly until evenly blended.
Step 2: Transfer the seasoning mix to an airtight container and store it in a cool, dry place for up to six months.
Step 3: To use as a marinade, whisk together 1/4 cup of this shawarma seasoning, 1/4 cup olive oil, and 1/4 cup lemon juice. Marinate 2 pounds of your choice of meat for 1 to 24 hours before cooking.

Tips & Variations

For a smoky flavor, use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like your seasoning with some heat.
This seasoning works wonderfully on vegetables, tofu, or chicken for a quick flavor boost.
Adjust salt and pepper to taste, especially if using in different recipes.

Storage

Store your shawarma seasoning in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to six months. When using the seasoning as a marinade, marinate meat up to 24 hours for the best flavor. Leftover marinade can be discarded and should not be reused.

How to Serve

A wooden bowl filled with eight different spices arranged in small piles that almost touch each other, each pile showing a distinct color and texture; starting from the top and moving clockwise, there is a dark green dried herb, a light to dark brown ground spice, a pile of coarse gray and black pepper, a rich brown ground spice, a fine white powder, a light beige powder, a bright orange-yellow powder in the center, and a bright red powder. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface, highlighting the vibrant colors of the spices. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make shawarma seasoning without cardamom?

Yes, you can omit cardamom if you don’t have it on hand. While it adds a unique citrusy note, the seasoning will still be delicious without it.

How can I use shawarma seasoning besides marinating meat?

This seasoning is versatile—you can sprinkle it on roasted vegetables, mix it into rice or couscous, or use it as a dry rub for grilling fish or tofu.