Arabic shawarma

Fast Food

Item Rating: 69/100

1 serving (250 grams) contains 500 calories, 25.0 grams of protein, 20.0 grams of fat, and 50.0 grams of carbohydrates.

Nutrition Information

1 cup (235.8g)

Calories		471.7
% Daily Value*
Total Fat		18.9 g	24%
	Saturated Fat	4.7 g	23%
	Polyunsaturated Fat	0 g
Cholesterol		47.2 mg	15%
Sodium		754.7 mg	32%
Total Carbohydrates		47.2 g	17%
	Dietary Fiber	2.8 g	10%
	Sugars	4.7 g
protein		23.6 g	47%
Vitamin D		0 mcg	0%
Calcium		141.5 mg	10%
Iron		2.4 mg	13%
Potassium		377.4 mg	8%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Food Attributes

🍯 Low sugar

⚠️ Contains trans fat

Source of Calories

Fat: 170 cal (37.5%)

Protein: 94 cal (20.8%)

Carbs: 188 cal (41.7%)

About Arabic shawarma

Shawarma is a popular dish originating from the Middle East, specifically the Levantine region, and is a cornerstone of Arabic cuisine. Traditionally, it consists of marinated slices of meat like chicken, beef, or lamb, cooked on a vertical rotisserie and shaved off for serving. These are often paired with vegetables, pickles, and sauces, served in flatbreads or on plates. Nutritionally, shawarma's value depends on the ingredients used. A typical chicken shawarma wrap contains protein, moderate amounts of fat, and carbohydrates from the bread or wraps. It also provides vitamins B6 and B12 from meat, as well as iron and zinc. However, the sodium content can be high due to marinades and pickles, so moderation is advised.

Health Benefits

• Rich in protein (20-25g per serving) which supports muscle repair and maintenance.
• Provides vitamin B6 (10-15% DV per serving) for brain function and neurotransmitter synthesis.
• Contains iron (1-2.5 mg per serving), essential for oxygen transport and red blood cell production.

Dietary Considerations

Allergens: Contains gluten (from bread or wraps), dairy (if yogurt-based sauces are used), sesame (in tahini sauce)

Suitable for: High-protein diets, mediterranean diets

Not suitable for: Gluten-free diets (unless specific bread is used), vegetarian or vegan diets (unless prepared with plant-based alternatives)

Selection and Storage

Store cooked shawarma meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and reheat thoroughly before consuming. Avoid storing it with sauces to prevent sogginess.

Common Questions About Arabic shawarma Nutrition

Is Arabic Shawarma high in protein?

Yes, Arabic Shawarma is typically high in protein because it is made with marinated meats such as chicken, lamb, or beef. On average, a serving of chicken shawarma contains approximately 30-35 grams of protein depending on the portion size and preparation method.

Can I eat Arabic Shawarma on a keto diet?

Arabic Shawarma can be keto-friendly if served without bread or high-carb sides like rice and fries. Opt for a plate-style shawarma with just marinated meat, vegetables, and sauces such as tahini or garlic sauce to keep it low in carbohydrates.

What are the health benefits or concerns of eating Arabic Shawarma?

The health benefits of shawarma include being a rich source of protein and providing nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins. However, concerns include its potential high sodium and fat content due to marinades, sauces, and preparation methods, especially if cooked with added oils or served with fried sides.

How much Arabic Shawarma is recommended per serving?

A reasonable serving size for Arabic Shawarma is about 200-250 grams, which equates to one medium wrap or a plate portion. This amount typically provides around 300-600 calories depending on the ingredients and sides included, making it appropriate for a balanced meal.

How does Arabic Shawarma compare to other similar dishes like gyro or kebab?

Arabic Shawarma is similar to gyro and kebab in terms of flavor and preparation, but it tends to include different spice blends such as cardamom, coriander, and cloves. Gyros often use a combination of lamb and beef while shawarma uses marinated meat with Middle Eastern seasonings. Kebabs are usually skewered and grilled, whereas shawarma is shaved from rotating meat on a spit.

Data Sources & Scientific References