Nova Scotia Donair
A uniquely Maritime Canadian creation, this Halifax specialty features thinly sliced, spiced roast beef piled into a pita with a sweet, garlicky condensed milk-based sauce and chopped onions and tomatoes.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Beef roast (e.g., sirloin tip or eye of round)
- 1/2 cup Water
- 2 tbsp Onion powder
- 1 tbsp Garlic powder
- 1 tbsp Salt
- 1 tsp Black pepper
- 1/2 tsp Cayenne pepper
- 1 can (300ml) Sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup White vinegar
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 4 large Pita bread
- 1/2 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 1 medium Tomato(chopped)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
In a small bowl, combine water, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
💡 Tip: Ensure spices are fully dissolved in water. - 3
Place the beef roast in a baking dish. Pour the spice mixture over the roast, ensuring it's coated.
💡 Tip: You can also tie the roast with butcher's twine for a more uniform shape. - 4
Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and roast for 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
⏱️ 1 hour 30 minutes💡 Tip: The low and slow cooking method helps tenderize the beef. - 5
Remove the roast from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before thinly slicing against the grain.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 6
While the beef rests, prepare the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, white vinegar, and minced garlic until smooth.
💡 Tip: The sauce should be thick and creamy. - 7
Warm the pita bread slightly.
💡 Tip: You can warm them on a dry skillet or in the oven. - 8
Assemble the donairs: Layer the thinly sliced beef onto the pita. Drizzle generously with the donair sauce, then top with chopped onions and tomatoes.
💡 Tip: Don't be shy with the sauce!
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For easier slicing, partially freeze the beef roast before cooking.
- ✓Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your spice preference.
- ✓The donair sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add shredded lettuce for extra crunch.
- Some people enjoy a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.