If you’ve ever wandered through the streets of Halifax, you likely caught a whiff of something absolutely mouthwatering. That tantalizing aroma is none other than the iconic Halifax Donair, a beloved local delicacy that has captured the hearts—and appetites—of many. With its tender, spiced beef, fresh veggies, and a rich, creamy sauce, the Halifax Donair is a delightful twist on traditional Middle Eastern fare, and it’s easy to make at home!
The beauty of this dish lies not just in its flavor, but also in the simplicity of its preparation. Whether you want to impress your friends at a gathering or enjoy a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to deliver on all fronts. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into the delicious world of Halifax Donair!
What Makes This Recipe Special
What sets the Halifax Donair apart is its unique combination of spices and the signature sweet garlic sauce that tops it off. The balance of savory beef with the fresh crunch of vegetables, all enveloped in warm pita bread, creates a symphony of flavors and textures. Plus, this dish is a fantastic way to bring a taste of the East Coast of Canada right into your kitchen. A true comfort food, it’s perfect for any occasion.
What Goes In
To create this scrumptious Halifax Donair, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
- 10 ounces evaporated milk (1 can)
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup white vinegar
- 1 large tomato (chopped)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 4 large pita breads
Gear Checklist
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following tools on hand:
- Large mixing bowl – for combining the beef and spices.
- Meat thermometer – to ensure your beef is cooked to perfection.
- Baking sheet – for shaping and cooking the beef.
- Whisk – for mixing the garlic sauce.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping vegetables.
- Pita bread – to serve your donairs.
Method: Halifax Donair
Now that you have everything ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to make your own Halifax Donair at home.
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground coriander, onion powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all the spices are evenly distributed throughout the meat.
Step 2: Shape the Beef
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take the seasoned beef mixture and shape it into a loaf or a log. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will help the meat cook evenly and retain its juices.
Step 3: Bake the Beef
Bake the beef in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). This is crucial to ensure that the beef is safe and delicious to eat.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
While the beef is baking, you can prepare the sweet garlic sauce. In a separate bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, sugar, garlic powder, and white vinegar until well combined. Adjust the sweetness to your liking, and set aside.
Step 5: Chop the Vegetables
As the beef finishes cooking, chop your tomatoes and onion. These fresh toppings will add a nice crunch and freshness to your Halifax Donair.
Step 6: Assemble the Donair
Once the beef is done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly. Take a warm pita bread, layer on some beef slices, and top with chopped tomatoes and onions. Drizzle generously with the sweet garlic sauce.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Wrap the pita around the filling, and your Halifax Donair is ready to be devoured! You can serve it with extra sauce on the side for dipping.
Seasonal Serving Ideas
Enhance your Halifax Donair experience with these serving ideas:
- Serve it with crispy sweet potato fries for a delightful side.
- Pair with a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the flavors.
- Add pickled red onions for an extra zing!
- Offer a variety of sauces, such as hot sauce or tzatziki, for a flavor boost.
Cook’s Notes
- Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences.
- For a healthier twist, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken.
- Let the beef rest before slicing to keep it juicy and tender.
- Try adding your favorite toppings, like lettuce or feta cheese, for a personalized touch.
Storing Tips & Timelines
If you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:
- Store the cooked beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- You can freeze the beef for up to 3 months; just make sure to thaw it completely before reheating.
- Assemble the donairs just before serving to keep the pita bread from getting soggy.
Popular Questions
Can I make the Halifax Donair sauce in advance?
Yes! The sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using.
What is the best way to reheat leftover donair?
The best way to reheat is to wrap the beef in foil and warm it in the oven. This keeps it moist and tender.
Can I use different meats for the donair?
Absolutely! Ground lamb or chicken can be used as alternatives to ground beef, offering a different flavor profile.
Is the Halifax Donair sauce spicy?
The sauce is sweet and creamy with a slight kick from the garlic. If you prefer more heat, feel free to add more cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
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Serve & Enjoy
Now that you have all the tips and tricks, it’s time to gather your friends and family around the table to enjoy your homemade Halifax Donair. With its rich flavors and comforting ingredients, this dish is bound to become a favorite in your household. Go ahead, take that first bite, and let the flavors transport you to the vibrant streets of Halifax!
Halifax Donair
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture - In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground coriander, onion powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all the spices are evenly distributed throughout the meat.
- Step 2: Shape the Beef - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take the seasoned beef mixture and shape it into a loaf or a log. Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Step 3: Bake the Beef - Bake the beef in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Step 4: Make the Sauce - While the beef is baking, prepare the sweet garlic sauce by whisking together the evaporated milk, sugar, garlic powder, and white vinegar in a separate bowl.
- Step 5: Chop the Vegetables - As the beef finishes cooking, chop your tomatoes and onion.
- Step 6: Assemble the Donair - Once the beef is done, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly. Take a warm pita bread, layer on some beef slices, and top with chopped tomatoes and onions. Drizzle generously with the sweet garlic sauce.
- Step 7: Serve and Enjoy - Wrap the pita around the filling, and your Halifax Donair is ready to be devoured!
Notes
- Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste preferences.
- For a healthier twist, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken.
- Let the beef rest before slicing to keep it juicy and tender.
