Shawarma Seasoning

When it comes to spices, I love making homemade spice blends. I have already shared the best chicken seasoning, authentic taco seasoning, and Lebanese 7 spice. Now it’s the turn of this warming and aromatic shawarma seasoning.

This Middle Eastern shawarma spice blend gets its unique flavor from a combination of robust spices—cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, allspice, nutmeg, chili powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Making it at home is quick and easy and gives you a fresher, tastier, and cheaper seasoning than store-bought options.

Plus, you know exactly what goes into the blend—there are no unnecessary fillers (like flour or starches) or preservatives. You can even adjust the seasoning to your taste. In the recipe card below, I have provided the authentic ratios, but feel free to tweak the amounts to your liking. Then, just keep the spice mix in your pantry and use it to transform dishes with beef, chicken, vegetables, and more!

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Table of Contents

• Watch how to make it
• Ingredients
• How to make shawarma seasoning
• How to use shawarma seasoning
• More homemade seasonings
• Shawarma Seasoning Recipe

Watch how to make it

Ingredients

You only need dried, ground spices for this seasoning mix. The fresher they are, the longer it will last.

• Dried oregano: For herbal flavor. I often dry oregano at home when I have an abundance of this herb.
• Black pepper: Add a sharp, pungent heat.
• Chili powder: For mild heat and warmth.
• Cardamom powder: For a herbal and slightly citrusy flavor.
• Garlic powder: Adds depth and umami flavor.
• Nutmeg: For a little sweet, nutty flavor. Use store-bought powder or grate a whole nutmeg at home.
• Cinnamon: Adds sweetness and warmth.
• Allspice: Made from a dried berry (named “allspice), it adds a warm flavor.
• Clove powder: For a more robust spiciness.
• Salt: To balance the flavors.

See the printable recipe card below for full information on ingredients and quantities.

How to make shawarma seasoning

Measure out the spices! If wanted, you can make a big batch by doubling, tripling, or even quadrupling the amounts.

Place all the spices in a small bowl and mix them in it. Then, transfer them to an airtight glass container with the help of a funnel.

Alternatively, measure the spices and pour them directly into your container. Then, shake it well to mix.

Label your container and store the shawarma spice mix in a cool, dry place (like a kitchen cupboard, spice cabinet, or your pantry). It’s best to use the seasoning within 3-4 months, though it will last 6+ months.

How to use shawarma seasoning

When it comes to how to use spice blends, the sky is the limit. But here are my favorite ways to use this shawarma spice mix:

• Marinade for meats: this is one of the most classic uses—you can season or marinate meats. Combine 2 Tbsp shawarma seasoning, 4 Tbsp olive oil, 2 tablespoons vinegar or 1/4 cup yogurt, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Whisk until smooth, then coat 1 kilogram of your favorite protein (for example, for this chicken shawarma recipe). Marinate for 6 hours or overnight for the best flavor. Once marinated, grill or bake the meat and serve with traditional sides like creamy hummus, homemade toum, grilled pita bread, and salad.
• Dry rub: Massage 1-2 tablespoons of seasoning blend directly onto meat or veggies, adjusting based on your desired level of flavor. Make sure to cover evenly, then grill, roast, or pan-fry to lock in the flavor.

More homemade seasonings

The Best Burger SeasoningEasy French Fry SeasoningAuthentic Taco Seasoning Spice

If you try this homemade shawarma seasoning recipe, let me know how it goes in the comments below. I’d appreciate a recipe card rating and would love to see your recipe recreations – tag me on Instagram @Alphafoodie!