I’ve been eating “shawarma” in some form for years now.

In fact, one of my first dates with John was at a little Mediterranean cafe in Kansas. We ordered shawarma and fed each other bites between adoring glances.

Yes, we were that couple. That was also the day I discovered John’s preference for small bites and my overwhelming preference for big bites. I felt like he was slighting me all night. Don’t worry – lesson learned, the relationship survived.

Take note world (and husband): Give me a two-biter or things are gonna go down.

What is Shawarma?

Shawarma is a classic Levantine Arab dish of meat (lamb, chicken, turkey, beef, or mixed meats) seasoned and placed vertically on a spit and slow roasted. It’s typically sliced thinly and served with tabbouleh, fattoush salad, bread, tomato, and cucumber and various sauces. Though considered a Turkish dish by origin, it’s enjoyed through the Middle East and Mediterranean region in various forms. (source)

Note, this is a shawarma-inspired sandwich as it opts for chickpea in place of meat.

What is Shawarma Spice Mix?

Shawarma spice blends were created in the Middle East to add flavor and spice to the rotisserie meats. Common spices include cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, all spice, and cayenne. Find our inspired DIY blend here, or try a more authentic version of shawarma spice blend here.

The chickpeas in this dish are tossed in shawarma-inspired spices (see our DIY blend here!) and baked until crispy and golden brown. Swoon.

This recipe is easy, requiring just 30 minutes, plus simple ingredients and methods.

Season and roast chickpeas

Prepare sauce

Assemble sandwich

Devour

I think you guys are going to LOVE this sandwich. It’s:

Savory

Warm

Comforting

Flavorful

Subtly spiced

Zingy from the garlic sauce

Satisfying

& Quick

I think this would make the perfect weeknight meal when you’re craving something fast but satisfying. It’s bound to please the whole family, even picky eaters. I’d like to see someone resist my garlic dill sauce on crispy chickpeas. I’d just like to see them try…

Plus, one sandwich (of two) boasts 22 grams of protein! Hello, plant power.

More Middle East-Inspired Dishes

If you make this recipe, let us know what you think! Leave a comment and rate it, and don’t forget to take a picture and tag it #minimalistbaker on Instagram so we can see! Your pictures always make our day. Cheers, friends!