Turkey Shawarma with Tomato Relish and Tahini Sauce
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026
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This aromatic turkey shawarma is a brilliant high-protein alternative to traditional lamb or chicken versions. By marinating lean turkey cutlets in a punchy blend of turmeric, cumin, and coriander, the meat remains succulent and deeply flavourful once grilled. The addition of charred onions and tangy pickled aubergine provides a wonderful contrast to the creamy tahini sauce, making every bite a balanced celebration of Middle Eastern inspired flavours.
Perfect for a weekend lunch or a nutritious midweek dinner, this dish is as healthy as it is satisfying. Serving the spiced turkey in toasted pitas with a fresh tomato relish makes it an excellent choice for those looking for a homemade take on a takeaway favourite. You can even prepare the marinade in advance, allowing the spices to penetrate the meat for a more intense savoury finish.
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Ingredients for Turkey Shawarma with Tomato Relish and Tahini Sauce
1.1kg 1/4-inch-thick turkey cutlets
2 onions, cut into 1/4-inch-thick rounds
1 tablespoon turmeric
2 teaspoons coarse kosher salt
2 teaspoons ground coriander
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon ground white pepper
1 teaspoon hot paprika or cayenne pepper
120ml (about) extra-virgin olive oil, divided
8 whole pita breads
Tomato Relish
Tahini Sauce
1 cup thinly sliced pickled aubergine* or sour dill pickles
How to make Turkey Shawarma with Tomato Relish and Tahini Sauce
Arrange turkey cutlets in 15x10x2-inch glass baking dish. Spread onion slices in 13x9x2- inch glass baking dish. Mix turmeric, coarse salt, ground coriander, ground cumin, black pepper, white pepper, and hot paprika in small bowl. Sprinkle onion slices with 1 tablespoon spice mixture, then drizzle 2 tablespoons olive oil over, turning onions to coat both sides. Sprinkle remaining spice mixture over both sides of turkey cutlets, rubbing in spice mixture with fingertips to coat. Drizzle 60ml olive oil over turkey, turning cutlets to coat both sides. Cover and chill onions and turkey at least 4 hours and up to 8 hours.
Prepare barbecue (medium-high heat). Brush grill rack with oil. Brush pita breads with 2 tablespoons oil. Grill onion slices until tender, about 4 minutes per side. Grill turkey cutlets until cooked through, about 3 minutes per side. Grill pita breads until grill marks appear, about 2 minutes per side. Transfer turkey cutlets and onion slices to cutting board and keep pita breads warm. Working in batches, stack several turkey slices and cut thinly crosswise. Repeat stacking and cutting with onion slices. Mix together turkey and onions in large bowl. Place 1 pita bread on each of 8 plates. Top with turkey-onion mixture, then Tomato Relish, Tahini Sauce, and aubergine and serve.
*Aubergine packed in a pickling brine of water, vinegar, salt, herbs, and spices; sold at Middle Eastern markets.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
16 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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