Introduction
Craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s also vegan-friendly? Look no further than these delicious chickpea shawarma pita wraps! This recipe combines the warm, spiced flavors of traditional shawarma with the wholesome goodness of chickpeas, all nestled in a soft pita and drizzled with creamy tahini sauce. It’s a quick, easy, and healthy option perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a picnic.
Making Chickpea Shawarma Pita Wraps
Ingredients You’ll Need
- For the Chickpea Shawarma:
- 1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Wraps:
- Pita bread
- Tahini sauce (recipe below)
- Your favorite toppings (see suggestions below)
- For the Tahini Drizzle:
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1-2 tablespoons water (to thin)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Chickpea Shawarma: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add drained and rinsed chickpeas to the skillet.
- Spice It Up: Sprinkle chickpeas with smoked paprika, cumin, coriander, turmeric, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Cook to Perfection: Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chickpeas are heated through and slightly browned, about 8-10 minutes.
- Make the Tahini Drizzle: In a small bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, minced garlic, and salt. Add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
- Assemble the Wraps: Warm the pita bread according to package instructions.
- Load It Up: Fill each pita with chickpea shawarma, your choice of toppings, and a generous drizzle of tahini sauce.
- Serve and Enjoy! Serve immediately and savor the delicious flavors.
Topping Ideas for Your Pita Wraps
- Fresh Vegetables: Diced tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, shredded lettuce, parsley, cilantro
- Pickled Goodness: Pickled red onions, pickled cucumbers, banana peppers
- Creamy Additions: Hummus, baba ghanoush, avocado slices
- Spicy Kick: Hot sauce, sriracha
Tips and Variations
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pita bread or serve the chickpea shawarma over a salad.
- Add Some Heat: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chickpea shawarma for a spicier kick.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare the chickpea shawarma and tahini sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the wraps just before serving.
- Oven-Baked Option: For a healthier option, bake the spiced chickpeas on a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Conclusion
These chickpea shawarma pita wraps with tahini drizzle are a simple, satisfying, and flavorful meal that’s sure to become a new favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a healthy dinner, or a delicious vegan option, this recipe is a winner. The combination of warm spices, creamy tahini, and fresh toppings creates a truly unforgettable culinary experience. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a taste of shawarma magic!
