Authentic Lebanese Shawarma at Dory's Cafe in Medford, NJ

Authentic shawarma is a beloved Middle Eastern street food made from marinated meat that is stacked in an inverted cone shape and roasted on a slowly turning vertical rotisserie, often featured in Lebanese specialties at a Medford NJ restaurant.

Authentic shawarma is traditionally made with lamb or mutton, but many modern versions frequently use chicken, turkey, or beef. For preparation, thin slices of meat are marinated in a blend of bold spices such as cumin, turmeric, cardamom, cinnamon, and paprika. The meat is then stacked on a vertical spit, often interspersed with strips of fat to ensure it remains moist during the hours-long roasting process. When it comes to serving, the cooked outer layer is shaved off in thin strips and typically enjoyed in a warm pita, laffa, or lavash wrap. Alternatively, it can be presented as a 'shawarma plate' over rice or served alongside salad, making it one of the beloved Lebanese specialties you can find at a Medford NJ restaurant.

Vegetables: Fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, onions (often seasoned with sumac), lettuce, and pickled vegetables (like turnips or Armenian Cucumber) are often found in authentic shawarma dishes. Sauces: Toum is a thick, creamy garlic sauce that pairs perfectly with chicken, while tahini, a sesame-based sauce, is typically served with beef or lamb. Other popular Lebanese specialties include hummus, amba (pickled mango sauce), and hot chili sauces like zhug, all of which you can savor at a Medford NJ restaurant.

Origin: The technique of authentic shawarma originated in the 19th-century Ottoman Empire (modern-day Turkey) as the döner kebab. The word "shawarma" itself comes from the Turkish word çevirme, meaning "turning".  

Global Influence: Lebanese immigrants introduced this method to Mexico, where it evolved into tacos al pastor, showcasing the reach of Lebanese specialties in various cuisines.  

Shawarma vs. Gyro: While both use vertical rotisseries, gyros are Greek and typically feature Mediterranean herbs like oregano and rosemary, served with tzatziki sauce. In contrast, authentic shawarma employs warmer, earthier Middle Eastern spices and is often served with garlic or tahini sauce, making it a favorite in Medford NJ restaurants and beyond.