Searching for shawarma in Metro Detroit? With plenty of options out there, it’s important to know the characteristics of truly authentic shawarma. Authentic shawarma relies on four key elements:
- Hand-stacked
- 24-hour marination
- Shaving
- Proper accompaniments
At La Marsa Eats, our fast-casual Mediterranean restaurant serves delicious shawarma in Metro Detroit. Contact us today to learn more or order online at our Auburn Hills location.
What Makes the Best Shawarma Near You Truly Authentic?
Shawarma is more than just meat in a wrap or bowl. Truly authentic shawarma is a Middle Eastern culinary tradition going back centuries, with certain methods for preparation, cooking, and serving.
At La Marsa Eats, we serve fast-casual Mediterranean food. However, we’re still dedicated to the traditional, labor-intensive cooking methods required for true shawarma.
The best shawarma features four key elements:
Hand-Stacked
Authentic shawarma starts with how the meat is prepared long before it goes through the cooking process.
Commercial shawarma is often made from processed, pre-formed cones of meat. The meat lacks texture and tends to be bland.
Hand-stacking is the best way to prepare shawarma, as it allows the natural fats to render throughout all the layers of the meat. This keeps the interior of the meat tender, while creating the signature crispy edges from the rotisserie’s rotation.
24-Hour Marination
Proper marination is also key to achieving the best shawarma flavor. Processed versions often have a light amount of marinade that only sits on the outside of the meat. They’re often paired with heavy sauces in order to make up for the lack of flavor within the meat.
Great shawarma doesn’t just have flavor on the surface. Instead, it’s essential for the meat to marinate for at least a full 24 hours.
This amount of time allows the marinade to penetrate deep into the fibers of the meat. The slow marination process breaks down the proteins in the meat.
The result is complex, savory, and bold flavor in every shaved slice and bite of meat.
Shave
The way the shawarma is removed from the rotisserie also impacts the way it tastes on your plate.
The meat must be shaved off in a particular way, which is a skill that can take years to master. Chefs use long, razor-sharp knives to shave the meat in thin, delicate ribbons.
It’s important to only shave the outermost layer of the meat at a time. The outer layer is perfectly seared by the vertical flame while the inside remains moist. This contrast creates a texture-rich and flavorful experience in every bite.
By shaving the meat off in the right way, you can maximize the flavor in your bowl or wrap.
Proper Accompaniments
In a true Middle Eastern kitchen, the accompaniments served alongside the shawarma is just as important as the meat itself.
Authentic shawarma is paired with specific sides that are meant to cut through the richness of the meat. They create a balance of fat, acid, and salt that enhances the meat.
For chicken shawarma, signature creamy garlic sauce and pickles are designed to pair with the meat’s flavor.
For beef or lamb shawarma, onions, tomatoes, and tahini are classic pairings.
At La Marsa Eats, you can choose one of the signature bowls or sandwich wraps on our menu. You can also customize your own bowl and add any toppings you want alongside our shawarma.
Discover Fast-Casual Shawarma & More at La Marsa Eats
At La Marsa Eats, we combine authentic, delicious, high-quality Middle Eastern food with the speed and convenience of fast-casual dining.
Our restaurant was designed to make it easy to enjoy Mediterranean food on-the-go. With halal-certified proteins and fresh ingredients, you can choose from a variety of meats, toppings, and sauces for your bowl.
Ready to try one of our bowls or wraps for yourself? Visit La Marsa Eats today. Contact us on our website or place your order online at our Auburn Hills restaurant location.
