Image by Victoria Shes

Kebab

Kebab, a delicacy of the orient, has become a staple of many cultures. Consisting of slices of marinated meat, vegetables and herbs, all cooked on a skewer over an open flame, Kebab is a mouthwatering dish that is often served with a variety of accompaniments.

Kebab


Originating from Central Asia, Kebab has been enjoyed for centuries by its many adept consumers. However, the diversity in Kebab recipes is virtually limitless now - with innumerable variations to be found. For example, Doner Kebab is a popular variety found in Turkey and Germany where the meat is rotisserie-cooked before being sliced and served in flatbread or pita.

Shish Kebab, on the other hand, is prized for its robust flavour, with cuts of beef or lamb, arranged neatly on a skewer, alternating with pieces of onion, tomatoes, mushrooms and peppers, lightly basted with a pungent marinade. The result is a delectable dish, bursting with succulent flavour and aromatic spices.

Other interesting Kebab varieties include Lyulya Kebab, which is popular in Azerbeijan and Uzbekistan. Here, minced beef and lamb are mixed together and formed into cylindrical sausages, before being grilled over charcoal. And in Indonesia and Malaysia, Satay Kebab is a favourite. Small chunks of chicken, beef or mutton are threaded on skewers, and then grilled over a charcoal fire, coated in a sweet and savoury marinade.

The beauty of Kebab lies in its versatility and wide variety of options, which make it appealing to any palate. It is often served with a side of fresh salad, cucumber yoghurt sauce or pita bread - all of which help elevate the Kebab experience.

Whichever type of Kebab you choose to eat, one thing's for sure: it will tantalize your taste buds and fill your stomach with a harmonious blend of spices, aromas and textures.

The origin of Kebab

The origins of the delectable Kebab dish are as juicy and complex as the flavorful morsels themselves. Thought to have been invented by the Mongolians, during their reign of Central Asia, the dish has changed and evolved over the centuries, and is now a cherished delicacy across the world.

Earlier records from the 12th century document the dish's roots in nomadic cultures, with the traditional custom of char-grilling meat on skewers and offering it as sustenance for weary travellers. The combination of succulent meat, fresh vegetables, and zesty spices remains a hallmark of the snack, which soon spread through the Silk Road and beyond, as far as India and Arabia.

From there, the Kebab underwent another period of metamorphosis. With the addition of herbs, spices, and other condiments, the snack became an emblematic representation of Middle Eastern cuisine - one that was much more than your average meal on the go.

The rise of the Kebab in the West is an interesting one. Though some may call it the result of an influx of immigrants bringing their culinary customs with them, the truth is that its popularity can be attributed to more than just mere cultural crossovers. In fact, savvy marketing campaigns, backed by enthusiastic customers, were what pushed the snack into the limelight.

With its firmly established place in our collective food culture, the Kebab remains a staple of diverse cultures and environments. From street food stands in the Middle East to high-end restaurants in the West, the flavours of this quintessential traditional dish have stood the test of time, retaining its iconic status throughout the centuries.

FAQs about Kebab

Is kebab Arab or Turkish?

Kebab is a dish that is popular in both Arab and Turkish cuisine. It is thought to have originated from Turkey, though there is debate on its exact origin.


What is kebab called in English?

Kebab is also known as shish kebab or doner kebab in English.


What kind of meat is kebab?

Kebab is typically made of either chicken, lamb, beef, or a combination of these meats.


What's the difference between a kabob and a kebab?

The terms "kabob" and "kebab" are often used interchangeably. Generally, both refer to meat, vegetables, and/or fruit that is skewered, grilled, and served with a side dish. However, a kabob usually refers to smaller pieces of food, while a kebab usually refers to larger, chunkier pieces of food.


Types of Kebab

Kebab, the dish of champions! This beloved delicacy has become an ever-present staple for many cultures and cuisines throughout the world. Whether it's served as an entrée, side dish or even a main course, there's no denying the allure of this tasty treat. But what exactly defines a kebab?

A kebab is essentially a skewered assortment of food - traditionally consisting of meat, vegetables and some variety of sauce. However, there are countless variations on this basic recipe, making kebabs an incredibly versatile dish. From Greek gyros to Turkish doner and Indian tandoori, each culture has its own unique take on kebab that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

When it comes to variety, it is almost impossible to draw the line between different types of kebabs as there are seemingly endless combinations. To make things easier, however, we can categorize them into two broad categories: grilled and baked. Grilled kebabs are generally cooked over open flames, creating a charred and smoky flavor that is truly unmistakable. Baked kebabs, on the other hand, typically involve marinating the ingredients in a blend of spices and sauces before baking them in an oven or tandoor.

No matter which type of kebab you prefer, one thing is certain - they certainly make for some mouthwatering meals. Whether you’re craving something traditional or something exotic, there’s no doubt that a kebab will satisfy your cravings. So grab your skewer and try out a few different types of kebab today!