Scottish Donair

Ingredients

The Scottish Donair differs from the original Halifax Donair in terms of the spices used in the marinade and the yogurt sauce. While the Halifax Donair typically uses a blend of Mediterranean spices, the Scottish Donair incorporates traditional Scottish spices to infuse the beef with a distinct flavor. Additionally, the yogurt sauce in the Scottish Donair may include Scottish ingredients such as heather honey or Scottish herbs for a unique twist. We alse have the original recipe for Halifax Donair, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) beef, thinly sliced 500g (1.1 lb) beef, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons Scottish spice blend (a mix of paprika, black pepper, thyme, and nutmeg) 2 tablespoons Scottish spice blend (a mix of paprika, black pepper, thyme, and nutmeg)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 4 pita breads 4 pita breads
• 1 cup (240ml) Greek yogurt 1 cup (240ml) Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: sliced onions, lettuce, tomatoes Optional toppings: sliced onions, lettuce, tomatoes

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the sliced beef, Scottish spice blend, vegetable oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the beef is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for enhanced flavor.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to make the yogurt sauce. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
3. 3.
   Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the marinated beef slices for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
4. 4.
   Warm the pita breads in a toaster or on a grill for a few seconds on each side.
5. 5.
   To assemble the Scottish Donair, place a generous amount of cooked beef slices on each pita bread. Drizzle the yogurt sauce over the beef and add optional toppings such as sliced onions, lettuce, and tomatoes.
6. 6.
   Roll up the pita bread tightly, securing it with foil or parchment paper if desired.
7. 7.
   Serve the Scottish Donair warm and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef — Choose lean cuts of beef for a healthier option. You can also substitute beef with chicken or lamb if desired.
• Scottish spice blend — If you can't find a pre-made Scottish spice blend, you can create your own by combining equal parts of paprika, black pepper, thyme, and nutmeg.

Tips & Tricks

• For added flavor, you can grill the pita bread for a few seconds on each side before assembling the Scottish Donair.
• Customize your toppings by adding Scottish ingredients such as pickled haggis or sliced neeps (turnips) for an authentic Scottish twist.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the beef marinade.

Serving advice

Serve the Scottish Donair as a main dish accompanied by a side salad or traditional Scottish sides such as tattie scones or Scotch eggs.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, garnish the Scottish Donair with a sprinkle of fresh Scottish herbs such as thyme or parsley. Serve it on a wooden board or platter for a rustic touch.