Everything you need to make shawarma at home, in three steps: the no-spit basics, a few useful add-ons, and the full vertical-spit setup if you get hooked.
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Great shawarma comes down to three things: a flavorful marinade, very high heat and thin slicing. You don't need everything on this page. Start with step 1, cook a few batches, and add more only if you'll use it.
Step 1
This trio plus a seasoning handles every recipe on the site.
Most useful tool
Cast iron holds high heat for charred, crispy edges on the stovetop, in the oven or on the grill. Comes pre-seasoned with a silicone handle holder.
Keep in mind: it's heavy and needs hand washing.
Check price on Amazon →For cooking chicken safely
Chicken needs to reach 165°F (74°C). An instant-read probe tells you in seconds, without cutting into the meat.
Check price on Amazon →For slicing shawarma thin
Slicing thin is what separates homemade shawarma from spiced chicken. A long, sharp knife with an ergonomic handle makes even cuts easier.
Check price on Amazon →For chicken shawarma
Marketed for poultry, which makes it a natural fit for chicken shawarma. Mix with olive oil, lemon and garlic for a quick marinade.
Check the label for salt. Prefer to mix your own? Use our spice blend recipe.
Check price on Amazon →Step 2
Nice to have once you're making shawarma regularly.
For quick garlic
Shawarma marinades and sauces use a lot of garlic. A press speeds up the prep.
Check price on Amazon →For the grill
Long, reusable skewers hold plenty of marinated meat over charcoal or gas for smoky char, with room to grip.
Check price on Amazon →A second blend to try
A small jar from a well-known Middle Eastern pantry brand: an easy, low-commitment way to compare blends. Works in marinades, rubs and yogurt sauces.
Check price on Amazon →Step 3
Worth the counter space if you make shawarma every week or love hosting.
Best indoor searing
A big, hot, flat surface for searing thin-sliced meat in batches. It frees up the stove and warms pita on the same surface.
Check plate options, size and temperature range on the listing.
Check price on Amazon →Most authentic
A countertop oven with a vertical rotating spit, like a shop's rotisserie scaled down. Stack the meat, let it turn, and carve the browned outside.
Check capacity, power and included accessories on the listing.
Check price on Amazon →Next
Want more detail? Compare options in our shawarma machine guide, essential tools guide and seasoning guide.
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