July 2, 2026 · 5 min

Shawarma-Spiced Beef Lettuce Wraps with Garlic White Sauce

Lunch5 min1011 cal / serving

Craving the bold, aromatic flavors of shawarma but want something lighter and fresher? These shawarma-spiced beef lettuce wraps are the perfect solution. Tender, spiced ground beef is paired with crisp baby lettuce, juicy tomato slices and tangy quick-pickled shallots, then drizzled with a creamy garlic white sauce. Every bite delivers the savory, tangy and herbaceous notes you love-without the bread.

This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner. The quick-pickled shallots add a bright, acidic pop that balances the rich beef, while the cool lettuce leaves provide a refreshing crunch. Whether you’re watching your carbs or simply looking for a fun, hands-on meal, these lettuce wraps are sure to become a favorite.


Recipe details

Lunch5 min1011 cal / serving2 servings

Nutrition per serving

Calories1011 kcalProtein48.9 gFat74.3 gCarbs35.2 gSugar29 gFiber2.2 gSodium713 mg

Dietary labels

Gluten-free: yesLactose-free: noDairy-free: no

Allergen check

Gluten / wheat: not detectedMilk / dairy: containsEgg: containsFish: not detectedShellfish: not detectedPeanut: not detectedTree nuts: not detectedSoy: not detectedSesame: not detectedMustard: not detectedCelery: not detectedSulphites: not detectedLupin: not detectedMolluscs: not detected

Values are calculated per serving from ingredient amounts and the ingredient nutrition reference per 100g. Allergen and diet labels use available ingredient metadata and name matching; always check product labels for strict diets or allergies. Some ingredient amounts or nutrition values were incomplete, so this is marked as a partial estimate.


Ingredients

Baby Lettuce1 unit Baby LettuceView ingredient guide
Yogurt2 tablespoon YogurtView ingredient guide
Red Wine Vinegar5 teaspoon Red Wine VinegarView ingredient guide
Mayonnaise2 tablespoon MayonnaiseView ingredient guide
Tomato1 unit TomatoView ingredient guide
Garlic Powder1 teaspoon Garlic PowderView ingredient guide
Shallot1 unit ShallotView ingredient guide
Salt1 teaspoon (tsp) SaltView ingredient guide
Sugar0.5 teaspoon (tsp) SugarView ingredient guide
Cooking Oil1 teaspoon (tsp) Cooking OilView ingredient guide
Black Pepperteaspoon (tsp) Black PepperView ingredient guide

Instructions

  1. Wash and dry all produce. Halve, peel and thinly slice the shallot. Trim the root end from the lettuce and separate the leaves. Reserve 6 whole lettuce leaves (12 for 4 servings); finely chop the remaining lettuce. Halve the tomato lengthwise, then slice crosswise into thin half-moons.
  2. In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine the sliced shallot, red wine vinegar, ½ teaspoon sugar and ¼ teaspoon salt (for 4 servings: 1 teaspoon sugar and ½ teaspoon salt). Microwave until the shallot turns pink, 30-60 seconds. Set aside to pickle, stirring occasionally.
  3. Heat a drizzle of oil in a large nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Add the chopped chicken, chicken stock concentrate, 2 teaspoons shawarma spice blend (4 teaspoons for 4 servings), half the garlic powder, a pinch of salt and black pepper. Cook, breaking up the meat, until cooked through, 4-6 minutes. Carefully drain any excess grease from the pan.
  4. While the meat cooks, in a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt, mayonnaise and remaining garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Fill the reserved whole lettuce leaves with the chopped lettuce, cooked meat, tomato slices and pickled shallot (drain first).
  6. Divide the lettuce wraps among plates and drizzle with the garlic white sauce. Serve immediately.

Recipe Tips

For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the meat while cooking.

If you prefer chicken, substitute ground chicken or chopped chicken breast; adjust cooking time as needed.

The pickled shallots can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days.

FAQ

Can I use ground lamb or beef instead of chicken?

Yes, ground lamb or beef works beautifully in this recipe. Cook until no longer pink and drain any excess fat.

What can I use instead of baby lettuce?

Butter lettuce, romaine hearts or even large cabbage leaves make great substitutes for wrapping.

How do I store leftovers?

Store the cooked meat, pickled shallots and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble wraps just before serving.

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