Shawarma-Spiced Mushroom Skewers with Lemon Labneh: A Middle Eastern Delight

Craving the vibrant flavors of shawarma but seeking a vegetarian alternative? Look no further than these irresistible Shawarma ‘Shroom Skewers! Packed with the aromatic spices of classic shawarma – warm cumin, smoky paprika, and a hint of allspice – these hearty mushroom skewers offer a satisfying and surprisingly authentic vegetarian take on the beloved Middle Eastern dish. The juicy mushrooms, perfectly charred and infused with flavour, are complemented by a cool and tangy lemon labneh dip, creating a delightful balance of textures and tastes.

This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a vibrant appetizer, or a show-stopping contribution to your next barbecue. Prepare to be amazed by how easily these flavour-packed skewers come together, and get ready to experience a vegetarian shawarma adventure like no other. For a step-by-step guide to creating these delectable skewers, let's dive into the detailed instructions below.

Tools Needed

  • Skewers
  • Skillet
  • Small bowl

Ingredients

  • Shiitake mushrooms
  • Oyster mushrooms
  • Sumac
  • Grape molasses
  • Chicken schwarma seasoning
  • Olive oil
  • Salt
  • Labneh
  • Preserved lemons
  • Roasted pistachios
  • Pickled peppers
  • Olives
  • Fresh herbs
  • Aleppo pepper
  • Urfa pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Mushrooms and Marinade

  • Trim the ends of the mushrooms and cut them into uniform pieces.
  • Prepare the marinade by combining sumac, grape molasses, and chicken schwarma seasoning.
Trim the ends of the mushrooms and cut them into uniform pieces.Prepare the marinade by combining sumac, grape molasses, and chicken schwarma seasoning.
Prepare the Mushrooms and Marinade

Step 2. Cook the Shawarma-Spiced Mushroom Skewers

  • Build the skewers by stacking the mushrooms.
  • Drizzle olive oil over the skewers.
  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the mushroom skewers to the skillet and cook, pressing down to create a sear. Season with salt.
Drizzle olive oil over the skewers.Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.Add the mushroom skewers to the skillet and cook, pressing down to create a sear. Season with salt.
Cook the Shawarma-Spiced Mushroom Skewers
  • Brush the skewers with the marinade while cooking.
Brush the skewers with the marinade while cooking.
Cook the Shawarma-Spiced Mushroom Skewers

Step 3. Prepare the Lemon Labneh

  • Spread labneh on a plate.
  • Add pieces of preserved lemon to the labneh.
Spread labneh on a plate.Add pieces of preserved lemon to the labneh.
Prepare the Lemon Labneh

Step 4. Assemble and Garnish

  • Place the cooked mushroom skewers on top of the labneh.
  • Garnish with roasted pistachios, pickled peppers, olives, and fresh herbs.
Place the cooked mushroom skewers on top of the labneh.Garnish with roasted pistachios, pickled peppers, olives, and fresh herbs.
Assemble and Garnish

Read more: Fluffy Chicken Steamed Buns: Perfect Baozi Recipe

Tips

  • Use a non-stick surface to prevent sticking when cooking with sugar-containing marinades.
  • For a rustic look, tear the olives before adding them to the dish.
  • Feel free to experiment with different herb marinades if you don't have the specific ingredients.

Nutrition

  • Calories: approximately 250-350
  • Fat: 15-25g
  • Carbs: 15-25g
  • Protein: 5-10g

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of mushrooms besides cremini?

Absolutely! Shiitake, portobello, or even oyster mushrooms would work well. Just adjust cooking time as needed based on the mushroom's size and density.

2. What can I substitute for the labneh?

If you can't find labneh, plain Greek yogurt mixed with a squeeze of lemon juice and a pinch of salt makes a great substitute. You could also use hummus or tzatziki.


These Shawarma-Spiced Mushroom Skewers with Lemon Labneh offer a delicious and satisfying vegetarian twist on a classic Middle Eastern favorite. The vibrant flavors and textures are sure to impress your family and friends, making this recipe a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the delightful combination of smoky spices and creamy labneh – a taste of the Middle East on your plate!