STEAK SHAWAFEL

Steak Shawafel is a delicious fusion dish that combines the bold, aromatic flavors of Middle Eastern shawarma with the crisp, comforting textures of a falafel. This innovative creation features tender, marinated steak cooked to perfection and paired with crispy falafel, all wrapped in a soft pita. The addition of fresh vegetables and a creamy tahini sauce adds layers of flavor and texture, making it an irresistible meal. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for something exotic and comforting, offering a unique twist on two classic favorites.

Ingredients

For the Steak Marinade:

• 1 pound flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Falafel:

• 1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Tahini Sauce:

• 1/2 cup tahini
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/4 cup water (more if needed)
• Salt, to taste

For Assembly:

• 4 pita breads
• 1 cup lettuce, shredded
• 1 tomato, sliced
• 1/2 cucumber, sliced
• Pickles (optional)

Instructions

1. Marinate the steak: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Add the steak slices and toss to coat. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or overnight for more flavor.
2. Prepare the falafel mixture: In a food processor, combine chickpeas, parsley, cilantro, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, baking powder, salt, pepper, and flour. Pulse until a coarse mixture forms. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
3. Make the falafel: Shape the falafel mixture into small patties. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the falafel patties in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
4. Cook the steak: In the same skillet, add the marinated steak slices and cook over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from heat.
5. Prepare the tahini sauce: In a bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, garlic, water, and salt until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more water if needed.
6. Assemble the shawafel: Warm the pita breads in a skillet or oven. Spread a generous amount of tahini sauce on each pita. Top with lettuce, tomato, cucumber, steak slices, and falafel. Add pickles if desired.
7. Serve: Fold the pitas around the filling and serve immediately.

Enjoy your Steak Shawafel as a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that combines the best of Middle Eastern cuisine in every bite!