The Hello Fresh Shawarma Spice Blend has become a kitchen favorite for home cooks who crave bold flavor without fuss. If you’ve ever used Hello Fresh and wished you could bottle that cozy, savory, warmly spiced aroma forever, good news: you can.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to recreate the Hello Fresh Shawarma Spice Blend at home using basic pantry spices, how to adjust it to your taste, how long it lasts, and delicious ways to use it on meats, veggies, and more. We’re here to make your kitchen easier, more flavorful, and more fun without the kit.
Table of Contents
What Is Hello Fresh Shawarma Spice Blend?
Shawarma is rooted in Middle Eastern cooking, where marinated meats roast slowly on a spit, seasoned with warm, bold spices that create layers of flavor. The Hello Fresh Shawarma Spice Blend is inspired by those traditional flavors but simplified for the everyday kitchen. It’s earthy from cumin and turmeric, smoky from paprika, and has subtle heat from black pepper and allspice.
This blend became a hit in Hello Fresh kits because of its balance: just bold enough to be exciting, but mild enough to work across dishes. It adds depth to roasted chickpeas, grilled chicken, cauliflower, and even vinaigrettes without requiring ten different jars.
Why do home cooks keep reaching for it? Convenience and flavor. But once the meal kit is gone, many are left craving that same taste. That’s where your homemade version steps in—cheaper, customizable, and always ready in your spice drawer.
It’s a seasoning that bridges cultures, and now, it can become a staple in your home too.
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Hello Fresh Shawarma Spice Blend
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 tablespoons 1x
Description
Hello Fresh Shawarma Spice Blend made easy at home. Save money, customize flavor, and spice meals in minutes, keeps fresh for 6 months.
Ingredients
- 2 tsp turmeric
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried coriander
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp ground allspice
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
- Mix thoroughly until even.
- Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
Notes
- Use 1 tbsp per pound of meat or veggies.
- Use smoked paprika for a deeper, smokier flavor.
- Label your jar with the blend name and date for freshness.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Spice Mix
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 15
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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Ingredients in Hello Fresh Shawarma Spice Blend
What’s Inside the Hello Fresh Shawarma Spice Blend?
Recreating the Hello Fresh Shawarma Spice Blend is simple, a warm, earthy mix that brings bold flavor to any dish.
Below is a clear table detailing each ingredient, amount, and how it enhances the blend:
| Ingredient | Amount | Flavor Profile | Purpose in Blend |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turmeric | 2 tsp | Earthy, bitter-warm | Adds golden color and grounding depth |
| Ground Cumin | 2 tsp | Toasty, nutty, smoky | Builds savory base with classic shawarma warmth |
| Dried Coriander | 1 tsp | Light, citrusy | Lifts flavor and adds balance |
| Garlic Powder | 1 tsp | Pungent, savory | Boosts umami and rounds out the spice mix |
| Paprika | 1 tsp | Sweet, slightly smoky | Deepens aroma and flavor complexity |
| Ground Allspice | ½ tsp | Clove-like, warm, sweet-spicy | Adds richness and layers of flavor |
| Black Pepper | ½ tsp | Sharp, spicy | Provides subtle heat and balance |
Optional Add-ins:
Add ¼ tsp cayenne for heat, or a pinch of smoked paprika for a deeper, BBQ-style finish. A sprinkle of citrus zest can brighten up the entire profile.
How to Make Hello Fresh Shawarma Spice Blend at Home
Making the Hello Fresh Shawarma Spice Blend at home takes less than five minutes and requires no fancy tools, just a few pantry staples and a mixing bowl. This method is easy enough to do one-handed while keeping a baby on your hip (trust me, I’ve done it).
Let’s get started.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Make sure you have the following spices ready:
- 2 teaspoons turmeric
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried coriander
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground allspice
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional for Heat: Add ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
Optional for Smoky Twist: Add ½ tsp smoked paprika
Step 2: Add All Spices to a Bowl
Use a small bowl (glass or ceramic works best) and pour in each spice one at a time. As you do this, take in the colors and smells, cooking starts with the senses.
Step 3: Mix Thoroughly Until Evenly Combined
Use a small whisk, fork, to blend the spices. You want a uniform mixture, so every tablespoon you scoop later has the perfect balance of flavor.
Step 4: Transfer to an Airtight Container
Scoop your blend into a clean, dry jar or spice container with a tight-fitting lid. Mason jars or reused spice bottles work well here.
Pro Tip: Label the jar with the blend name and date using masking tape or a chalk marker. It makes life easier.
Step 5: Store in a Cool, Dry Place
Spices like to be kept away from heat and moisture, so store your blend in a pantry or cupboard—not above the stove.
Proper storage ensures this spice blend stays fresh and aromatic for up to 6 months.
Step 6: Use 1 Tablespoon per Pound of Meat or Veggies
That’s the sweet spot! Whether you’re seasoning a tray of roasted chickpeas or marinating chicken thighs, 1 tablespoon per pound gets the balance just right.
How to Use Hello Fresh Shawarma Spice Blend
Once you’ve made your own Hello Fresh Shawarma Spice Blend, the possibilities in your kitchen open wide. This seasoning is incredibly versatile it adds bold warmth to meats, magic to veggies, and unexpected depth to snacks and dressings. Whether you’re a meal-prep pro or just trying to get dinner on the table fast, this blend is about to become your new go-to.
1. Meats That Love This Blend
This spice mix is especially delicious on proteins. Here’s how to use it:
- Chicken thighs or breasts – Rub with olive oil, season with 1 tbsp per pound, then roast or grill
- Beef strips or ground beef – Mix with the meat before cooking for shawarma bowls or wraps
- Lamb chops – Marinate overnight with lemon juice and this blend for a rich, authentic flavor
- Turkey or pork – Adds a layer of flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Pro Tip: For juicier results, add Greek yogurt and lemon juice to create a shawarma-style marinade.
2. Veggies and Plant-Based Dishes
The Hello Fresh Shawarma Spice Blend doesn’t play favorites—it shines on vegetables too.
- Cauliflower or broccoli – Toss in olive oil and seasoning, then roast at 425°F
- Roasted chickpeas – Bake until crispy for a protein-packed snack or salad topper
- Tofu or tempeh – Season generously and fry until crisp and golden.
- Sweet potatoes – Adds a smoky contrast to natural sweetness
Looking for inspiration? Try this blue salt trick recipe for seasoning balance ideas.
3. Creative, Unexpected Uses
Go beyond dinner with these creative ideas:
- Sprinkle on popcorn – Warm, spicy, savory movie night treat
- Seasoned nuts – Coat almonds or cashews and roast for a crave-worthy snack
- Homemade vinaigrette – Mix with olive oil, lemon, and honey for a spiced salad dressing
- Egg dishes – Dust into scrambled eggs or over shakshuka for a flavor twist
- Soups & stews – Add depth to lentil soup or chicken broth with just ½ tsp per pot
How Long Does Shawarma Spice Blend Last?
Properly stored, your homemade Hello Fresh Shawarma Spice Blend stays flavorful for up to 6 months.
| Storage Factor | Best Practice | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Container | Airtight glass jar or spice tin | Prevents air from dulling the flavor |
| Light | Store in a dark cupboard (avoid direct sunlight) | UV light breaks down oils in spices faster |
| Moisture | Keep in a dry place (never above the stove) | Moisture leads to clumping and flavor loss |
| Temperature | Room temp (68°F–77°F); avoid heat sources | Heat accelerates deterioration of spice oils |
| Use-By Timeline | Best within 6 months | After that, flavor starts to fade noticeably |
| Smell Test | Strong aroma = still good | Weak or stale scent = time to make a fresh batch |
| Visual Check | Color still vibrant? Then it’s still potent | Dull color can signal loss of flavor compounds |
Tip: Always use clean, dry measuring spoons when scooping your blend—no wet fingers or spoons from cooking pots!
Can You Buy Hello Fresh Spice Blends or Should You Make Them?
Many fans wonder if they can buy the Hello Fresh Shawarma Spice Blend on its own. While Hello Fresh doesn’t sell their spice blends directly, you might spot them occasionally on third-party sites like Amazon, but they’re often overpriced and less fresh.
Buying Pros:
- Zero prep
- Occasional availability online
Buying Cons:
- Limited stock
- Can be stale or contain additives
- Often more expensive per ounce
Making it yourself, however, is quicker than waiting on shipping:
DIY Pros:
- Fresh and budget-friendly
- Fully customizable
- No preservatives or fillers
- Ready in under 3 minutes
DIY Cons:
- Small time investment but worth it
Tip: Buy spices in bulk and store extras in airtight jars. You’ll always be ready for a flavor upgrade.
Is the Hello Fresh Shawarma Spice Blend Spicy?
Understanding the Heat Level in Hello Fresh Shawarma Spice Blend
Is the Hello Fresh Shawarma Spice Blend spicy? It’s mildly warm, not hot and perfect for all palates.
Spice Level Breakdown
The original blend includes black pepper and allspice, which give a gentle heat and warmth, but nothing overpowering. There’s no cayenne or chili powder in the base recipe, which keeps it comfortably mild.
Perfect for:
- Kids
- Sensitive stomachs
- Everyday weeknight meals
- Picky eaters
Want It Hotter? Here’s How to Adjust It
Love a little heat? No problem. Here’s how to turn up the spice:
- Add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne per batch for a medium heat
- Swap regular paprika with smoked paprika for a deeper, bolder kick
- Stir in red pepper flakes if you like layered, building heat
Making It Kid-Friendly
If you’re cooking for little ones, the original recipe is a great place to start. You’ll get full flavor without complaints about “spicy stuff,” and it pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, sweet potatoes, or rice bowls.
Tip: When testing new spice levels, cook a small sample portion first to adjust before scaling.
FAQs About Hello Fresh Shawarma Spice Blend
Common Questions About the Hello Fresh Shawarma Spice Blend
If you’re thinking about making or using the Hello Fresh Shawarma Spice Blend, you’re not alone. These are some of the most common questions home cooks ask, and here are the answers you need.
How long does this shawarma spice blend last?
When stored properly in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, the blend stays fresh and flavorful for up to 6 months. Always check for vibrant color and a strong aroma to confirm it’s still good.
Is this blend spicy?
Not really. The Hello Fresh Shawarma Spice Blend is mild, with gentle warmth from black pepper and allspice. It’s great for families and those who avoid too much heat. Want more spice? Add cayenne to your homemade batch.
Can you buy Hello Fresh spice blends?
Not officially. Hello Fresh doesn’t offer their spice blends for direct sale, although you may find them resold on third-party sites. Keep in mind these may not be as fresh, and they’re often more expensive than making the blend yourself.
What is shawarma spice blend made of?
Traditional shawarma spice blends usually include cumin, paprika, garlic, turmeric, cinnamon, and sometimes clove or nutmeg. The Hello Fresh version keeps it simpler and family-friendly while still honoring that rich Middle Eastern profile.
How long can you store homemade spice blends?
Most homemade spice blends will keep well for 4 to 6 months if stored properly. Keep them sealed in a dry, dark place away from heat, and avoid dipping in with damp spoons.
Final Thoughts and Cooking Inspiration
Bringing the Hello Fresh Shawarma Spice Blend into your home kitchen is one of the easiest ways to elevate everyday meals. It’s bold, versatile, and takes just minutes to make. Whether you’re seasoning meats, roasting veggies, or spicing up snacks, this blend works hard behind the scenes to deliver big flavor.
Don’t be afraid to make it your own add heat, a hint of citrus, or go smoky. The best part? You’re not just making food; you’re making memories.
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