Okay, let’s talk about something super close to our hearts (and stomachs): shawarma. You know, that delicious, smoky grilled meat wrapped in pita, usually with some crunchy veggies and slathered in creamy garlic sauce? Yup, that one. But let me introduce you to a Filipino twist that hits different— Ground Beef Shawarma Rice, or what we fondly call around here: Pinoy Shawarma Rice.
This version is perfect for us rice-loving Pinoys. I mean, let’s be real—what meal isn’t made better with rice? Instead of the usual pita wrap, we serve it with a generous scoop (or two, or three… no judgment here) of yellow rice. Then we load it up with seasoned ground beef, fresh veggies on the side, and—wait for it—unlimited garlic sauce. Yes. You read that right. Unli garlic sauce kasi homemade ‘to!
I love making this because it’s so easy and so satisfying. I used ground beef for this recipe, which is great for busy days when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Ground beef cooks quickly, absorbs all the flavors well, and let’s face it—it’s super budget-friendly too. Plus, it’s a hit with the whole family.
Ykaie and Twinkle? Oh my goodness—they go wild over this Ground Beef Shawarma Rice. Especially because of the garlic sauce. They’re the kind of kids who would probably drink that stuff if I let them (don’t worry, I don’t… yet 😂). Since we’re making this at home, they get to drown their rice and beef in as much garlicky goodness as they want. Honestly, I do the same. No shame!
And the best part? You can totally customize it to your liking. Want it spicy? Add some chili flakes or sriracha. Craving crunch? Toast some pita chips and sprinkle them on top. Feeling extra? Add some cheese! There are no rules—just good food and good vibes.
So if you’re craving shawarma but want it the Pinoy way—aka with rice, with more sauce than you probably need, and with all the love of home cooking—this is it. Quick to make, easy on the wallet, and guaranteed to satisfy everyone at the table.
Go ahead and give it a try. Just make sure you make enough garlic sauce. Trust me, kulang pa rin ‘yan.
PrintGround Beef Shawarma Rice
Ingredients
Garlic Sauce
- 1/2 cup mayo
- 1/4 cup water
- 5 cloves garlic, chopped finely
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- juice of half a lemon
Beef
- 750g ground beef
- 1 tsp oil
- 1 large white onion, chopped
- 5 cloves garlic, chopped
- cumin
- smoked paprika
- soy sauce
- salt and pepper
- turmeric
Rice
- Rice
- turmeric powder
Garnish
- cucumber, sliced
- tomatoes, sliced
- onion, sliced
Instructions
- Make the Garlic Sauce: Combine all the ingredients in a deep bowl, using an immersion blender mix it well. Transfer to a sauce container and set aside for later.
- Cook the Yellow Rice: Cook your rice normally in a rice cooker, just put 1 tsp of turmeric and stir before turning on the rice cooker.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat oil in a pan. Sauté the garlic and onion until translucent. add the bef and cook until brown. Season with soy sauce, salt, pepper, cumin, turmeric, and smoked paprika. Mix well and cook until liquid evaporates.
- To serve, put some rice and beef on a plate. drizzle with garlic sauce and garnish with sliced cucumber, tomatoes, and onions.
- Drizzle with more garlic sauce. Enjoy!
