The Origin and History of Lamb Shawarma

Shawarma is more than a meal — it’s a time-honored tradition that began in the Middle East centuries ago.

The name shawarma comes from the Turkish word çevirme, meaning “turning,” referring to the slow rotation of stacked meat roasting on a vertical spit. This method dates back to the Ottoman Empire and gave birth to one of the world’s most beloved street foods.

While modern variations use chicken or beef, lamb is the original — celebrated for its deep, rich flavor and tenderness. Traditionally marinated in a blend of warm spices like cumin, paprika, cinnamon, garlic, and coriander, the lamb is slow-roasted and shaved into delicate, flavorful strips.

At Sultan’s Market, we honor that tradition daily.

Our lamb shawarma is fire-roasted in-house, sliced fresh, and wrapped in warm pita with tomato, cucumber, and smooth tahini sauce — no lettuce, no pickled turnips, just honest, bold flavor.