Syrian cuisine is renowned for its rich history, bold flavors, and aromatic spices, and among its most beloved dishes is Shawarma. Originating from the Levant, Shawarma has become a global sensation, known for its marinated meats, tender textures, and mouthwatering grilled flavors. The combination of succulent, spiced meats served in flatbread or pita wraps with fresh toppings makes Shawarma a street food staple. Syria’s version of Shawarma, with its deep flavors and unique regional twist, has earned its place at the top of the list for anyone craving a savory, smoky barbecue experience.
In addition to Shawarma, Syria’s BBQ offerings include a wide variety of skewered meats and grilled delicacies that highlight the country’s culinary diversity. From lamb and chicken to beef and fish, Syrian BBQ is a symphony of spices, marinated meats, and aromatic grilling. This article explores 10 popular and delicious Syrian BBQ recipes that will transport your taste buds to the heart of the Levant. Whether you’re looking to explore the world of Shawarma or discover new BBQ flavors, these recipes will offer a true taste of Syria’s rich grilling tradition.
Syrian BBQ, Shawarma & Skewers
1. Syrian Shawarma (Spiced Meat Wrap)
Syrian Shawarma is a globally recognized BBQ dish that showcases tender, spiced meat wrapped in warm pita or flatbread. Typically made with beef, lamb, or chicken, the meat is marinated for hours in a mixture of garlic, lemon, olive oil, cumin, paprika, and a touch of cinnamon. This marination infuses the meat with a rich, complex flavor. The marinated meat is then stacked on a vertical rotisserie, where it’s slowly cooked as it rotates, allowing the fat to baste the meat and keep it juicy and tender.
Once cooked, the meat is sliced thin and served in a pita wrap with fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions, and drizzled with a garlic or tahini sauce. Syrian Shawarma is a beloved dish in both Syria and beyond, offering a satisfying balance of smoky, savory, and tangy flavors with every bite.
2. Shish Taouk (Chicken Skewers)
Shish Taouk, a staple of Syrian BBQ, is a chicken skewer dish known for its tender, juicy texture and aromatic flavors. The chicken, typically boneless thighs, is marinated in a blend of yogurt, lemon, garlic, and spices like cumin, coriander, and paprika. This marinade not only imparts a burst of flavor but also tenderizes the chicken, allowing it to remain juicy while grilling.
Once marinated, the chicken is skewered and grilled over charcoal, creating a delicious smoky flavor. It is traditionally served with flatbread or rice and is accompanied by garlic sauce, fresh vegetables, and sometimes pickles. Shish Taouk is a favorite among those seeking a lighter but flavorful BBQ dish and is often enjoyed during festive occasions or casual gatherings.
3. Kebab Hindi (Minced Meat Kebab)
Kebab Hindi, a savory minced meat kebab, is one of Syria’s most popular BBQ dishes. Made with ground beef or lamb, the meat is mixed with finely chopped onions, parsley, garlic, and a combination of spices such as cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. The seasoned meat is then shaped into kebabs and grilled over open flames, resulting in a smoky, aromatic flavor that captures the essence of Syrian BBQ.
The combination of tender, juicy meat with the aromatic spices makes Kebab Hindi a crowd-pleaser, especially when served with traditional sides like rice, flatbread, or yogurt. This kebab is often enjoyed at family gatherings and social events and is a dish that represents the heart and soul of Syrian cuisine.
4. Kebab Mosul (Spiced Lamb Skewers)
Kebab Mosul is a popular lamb dish originating from the city of Mosul in northern Iraq but widely loved in Syria as well. The kebab is made from ground lamb, which is mixed with onions, garlic, parsley, and a unique blend of spices, including cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and turmeric. The meat is then shaped into skewers and grilled, allowing the smoky flavors from the charcoal to infuse the lamb with depth and richness.
Kebab Mosul is often served with a side of bulgur or rice, and accompanied by grilled vegetables like peppers and tomatoes, offering a flavorful and satisfying meal. The spiced lamb combined with the smoky grilling technique makes Kebab Mosul an unforgettable BBQ experience.
5. Shawarma Tabbouleh (Shawarma Salad)
Shawarma Tabbouleh is a refreshing twist on the traditional Shawarma. Instead of wrapping the Shawarma meat in bread, this dish is served with tabbouleh, a Levantine salad made with bulgur, parsley, mint, tomatoes, and a lemony dressing. The Shawarma meat, typically chicken or beef, is grilled and sliced thin, then served on top of the tabbouleh, adding a smoky and savory contrast to the bright, fresh flavors of the salad.
This dish offers a lighter, more refreshing alternative to the traditional Shawarma wrap and is perfect for those looking for a fusion of textures and flavors. The combination of grilled meat with the cool, herby salad creates a satisfying balance of flavors and is an excellent dish for summer meals or lighter gatherings.
6. Kebab Moussakhan (Sumac Chicken Skewers)
Kebab Moussakhan is a traditional Syrian BBQ dish made with marinated chicken, typically seasoned with sumac, a tangy, lemony spice that is central to Levantine cuisine. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of olive oil, onions, and sumac, and then skewered and grilled over hot coals, imparting a smoky and citrusy flavor to the meat.
Once grilled, the chicken is often served with flatbread, allowing the bread to soak up the flavorful juices from the chicken. Kebab Moussakhan is a dish that perfectly balances the tartness of sumac with the richness of grilled chicken, making it a popular choice for BBQ enthusiasts seeking bold and vibrant flavors.
7. Kebab Rostom (Lamb Skewers with Spices)
Kebab Rostom is a Syrian-style lamb kebab known for its juicy, tender texture and vibrant spices. The lamb is marinated with garlic, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and other traditional Syrian spices. After marinating for several hours, the meat is skewered and grilled, resulting in a flavorful and aromatic kebab with a crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior.
Kebab Rostom is typically served with flatbread, fresh herbs, and a side of rice or grilled vegetables. The richness of the lamb combined with the complex blend of spices creates a well-rounded dish that is ideal for special occasions and festive meals.
8. Kebab Al-Khat (Grilled Beef Skewers)
Kebab Al-Khat is a delicious Syrian BBQ dish made from skewered beef that is marinated in a blend of spices, including garlic, cumin, and paprika. The beef is typically cut into chunks and then skewered with onions and bell peppers, which add a fresh contrast to the smoky beef. Once grilled, the kebabs are served with a side of rice or fresh salad, providing a hearty and satisfying meal.
This kebab is particularly popular in Damascus and Aleppo, where it’s often served at large family gatherings or outdoor BBQs. The combination of marinated beef with the smoky grilling process makes Kebab Al-Khat a must-try dish for those who love the flavors of Syrian BBQ.
9. Samak Meshwi (Grilled Fish)
Samak Meshwi, or grilled fish, is a popular BBQ dish in coastal Syrian cities such as Tartus and Latakia. The fish, often sea bass or mackerel, is marinated with a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and spices like cumin and coriander. After marinating, the fish is grilled over an open flame, giving it a smoky, crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
This dish is often served with a side of rice, vegetables, or flatbread, and is a popular choice for those who prefer lighter, fresher BBQ options. Samak Meshwi highlights the rich flavors of the Mediterranean and is a great way to enjoy Syrian BBQ in its coastal form.
10. Shish Kebabs with Hummus and Baba Ganoush
Shish kebabs, often made with beef, lamb, or chicken, are skewered and grilled over charcoal, resulting in a delicious, smoky flavor. These kebabs are typically served with sides of creamy hummus and smoky baba ganoush, adding richness and depth to the meal. The kebabs are often marinated in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, lemon, and spices, enhancing the flavor of the grilled meat.
This dish is a popular choice for BBQ enthusiasts who enjoy a variety of dips and flavors alongside their grilled meats. The combination of the savory skewered meats with the smooth, velvety textures of hummus and baba ganoush makes for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Conclusion
Syrian BBQ, with its wide variety of aromatic spices, tender meats, and bold flavors, is a culinary tradition that showcases the heart and soul of Levantine cooking. From the iconic Shawarma wraps to the smoky skewers of Shish Taouk and Kebab Mosul, Syrian BBQ offers an array of dishes that will elevate any grilling experience. Each recipe is a testament to Syria’s rich cultural heritage, reflecting the deep flavors and diverse culinary influences that have shaped the country’s food scene.
Whether you are looking to recreate the traditional flavors of Shawarma or experiment with a new BBQ recipe like Kebab Rostom or Samak Meshwi, Syrian BBQ will not disappoint. With its delicious, aromatic dishes, Syrian barbecue offers a unique opportunity to expand your palate and experience the vibrant tastes of the Levant. Fire up your grill, gather your ingredients, and take your taste buds on a flavorful journey through Syria’s BBQ delights.
References:
- “The Flavors of Syrian BBQ” by Khalil Al-Hashimi, Levantine Culinary Journal.
- “Syrian Street Food: The Best Shawarma and Skewers” by Amal Jabbour, Middle Eastern Food Review.
- “The Art of Grilling in Syria” by Nabil Assaf, International BBQ Magazine.
See Also: Iraqi BBQ & Flavor: 10 Aromatic BBQ Recipes from Mesopotamia
