Classic Nova Scotia Donair
Cuisine: Other
Categories: Ethnic Dishes & Main Course
A traditional Nova Scotia donair with spiced ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a signature sweet garlic sauce wrapped in warm pita bread. A beloved East Coast classic perfect for a hearty meal.

Difficulty: MEDIUM
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Serving Size: Serves 4
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup dry bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 4 large pita breads
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 cup sliced white onion
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, cold water, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Mix well until fully combined.
- Shape the mixture into a loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with foil.
- Bake the meatloaf for 45 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Let it rest for 10 minutes.
- While the meat is resting, prepare the donair sauce: whisk together 1/2 cup evaporated milk, 3 tablespoons sugar, 1 tablespoon white vinegar, and 1 teaspoon garlic powder until thickened and creamy.
- Slice the cooked meatloaf thinly.
- Warm the pita breads briefly in the oven or on a stovetop skillet.
- Assemble each donair by layering sliced meat, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced onion, and shredded mozzarella on the pita.
- Drizzle generously with the donair sauce, then roll tightly to enclose the filling.
- Serve immediately with extra sauce on the side.
