Step by step

Method

4 steps

1. 1

   Cook fries your way: oven fries at 425°F 20–25 minutes, air-fryer fries 15–18 minutes, or thawed frozen fries until deep golden and crisp. Salt while hot. Keep warm.

2. 2

   Meanwhile, thinly slice ¾–1 pound beef and toss with shawarma spices (1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon turmeric, ½ teaspoon coriander, 1 teaspoon salt), 1 tablespoon oil, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Heat a skillet screaming-hot; sear beef in batches 2–3 minutes per side until browned with crisp edges.

3. 3

   Build bowls: pile fries, top with hot shawarma beef, then chopped tomato, cucumber, pickled peppers or turnips if you have them, and a drizzle of tahini or garlic sauce. Optional: a spoon of hot sauce.

4. 4

   Eat right away so the fries stay crunchy under the toppings. You want crispy fries, spiced beef, and cool crunchy veg — not soggy fries drowned in sauce.