Experience the classic taste of Nova Scotia with this homemade donair recipe, featuring spiced beef and a sweet garlicky sauce.
Prep
20 min
Cook
60 min
Total
90 min
Servings
6
Difficulty
Medium
Instructions
Prepare the Beef Mixture
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands or a food processor until fully blended.
Pro tip: Ensure the beef mixture is well combined for a consistent texture.
Shape and Cook the Meat
Shape the beef mixture into a loaf and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
Pro tip: Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
Rest the Meat
Allow the meat to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Prepare the Donair Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the evaporated milk, sugar, white vinegar, and garlic powder until smooth. Adjust sweetness to taste.
Pro tip: The sauce should be sweet and tangy.
Slice the Meat
Slice the rested meat thinly using a sharp knife.
Pro tip: Thin slices will absorb the sauce better.
Assemble the Donairs
Warm the pita bread and layer with sliced meat, diced tomatoes, and onions. Drizzle generously with donair sauce before folding.
Pro tip: Serve immediately for best results.
Tips & Tricks
- Use a food processor to ensure the beef mixture is well combined.
- For an authentic experience, use fresh pita bread.
- Adjust the sweetness of the sauce to your taste preference.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Nova Scotia style donair?
A Nova Scotia style donair is a Canadian dish consisting of spiced beef, sweet sauce, and pita bread, originating from Halifax.
How do you make Nova Scotia style donair sauce?
Combine evaporated milk, sugar, white vinegar, and garlic powder until smooth and adjust sweetness to taste.
How many calories are in a donair?
A typical serving of Nova Scotia style donair contains approximately 650 calories.
What kind of meat is used in a donair?
Lean ground beef is traditionally used to make the spiced donair meat.
How long does it take to cook donair meat?
The donair meat should bake for about 60 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Serving Suggestions
Nutrition per serving
650
Calories
30g
Protein
35g
Fat
50g
Carbs
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Kitchen & BBQ gear
What we use for recipes like this
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