Beef shawarma is deeply spiced, charred beef with crispy edges. Without a spit, the air fryer crisps thin marinated strips beautifully. Here's how.
Key takeaways
Q: How do you make beef shawarma in an air fryer?
A: Marinate thin beef strips in shawarma spices and air fry at 200°C (400°F) for 12–15 minutes, until charred at the edges.
Q: What cut works best?
A: A quick-cooking cut like rump or sirloin, sliced thin.
The method
Marinate thin strips of beef in oil, garlic, lemon and the classic shawarma blend — cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon and a little allspice. Spread out and air fry until charred at the edges, shaking once. Pile into wraps with garlic sauce, salad, pickles and chilli sauce.
The recipe
Air Fryer Beef Shawarma
Ingredients
- 600g beef, thinly sliced
- Oil, garlic, lemon
- Cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon
- Wraps, garlic sauce, salad
Method
- Marinate the beef 30 min+.
- Spread out; air fry at 200°C 12–15 min.
- Shake once for even charring.
- Serve in wraps with garlic sauce.
Tips
- Slice thinly for charred edges.
- Don't overcrowd so it chars, not steams.
- Rest briefly before serving.
Frequently asked questions
How do you make beef shawarma in an air fryer?
Marinate thin beef strips in oil, garlic, lemon and shawarma spices, then air fry at 200°C for 12–15 minutes, shaking once, until charred at the edges.
What cut of beef is best?
A quick-cooking cut like rump, sirloin or frying steak, sliced thinly across the grain so it stays tender and chars fast.
What do you serve with beef shawarma?
Flatbreads or wraps with garlic sauce, salad, pickles and chilli sauce, or over rice with a yoghurt drizzle.