Kebab – a taste of the East that has conquered the whole world

Kebab is a dish with a rich historical context and has gained popularity on all continents. Its basis is meat that is marinated, seasoned with spices and cooked over an open fire or grill. And although we associate kebab with Turkish or Arabic cuisine, its varieties can be found in every culture that loves to cook over an open fire.

History of kebab

Kebab is believed to have appeared in ancient times, when humanity learned to cook meat over an open fire. The first mention of it appeared in the Ottoman Empire, but such dishes were already prepared in Persia, Egypt and Central Asia. Classic kebab is made from lamb, beef or chicken, as well as with the addition of vegetables and spices.

Types of Kebabs

• Kebab can have many variations depending on the region:
• Shawarma is a popular option, where the meat is cut into thin slices, marinated, and then rotated on a vertical spit.
• Skewered kebab is a classic option, where the meat is strung on a metal or wooden skewer and cooked over a fire.
• Grilled kebab is a traditional method of cooking on the grill, where the meat is seared, retaining its juiciness and aroma.
• Kyufte is meatballs cooked on the grill, often with the addition of spices, herbs, and rice.

How to cook a delicious kebab?

• To make the kebab perfect, it is important to pay attention to several key points:
• Marinade – use natural spices such as turmeric, cumin, paprika, garlic, yogurt or lemon juice. This will make the meat tender and flavorful.
• Cooking temperature – it is important to maintain the temperature on the grill or barbecue correctly so that the meat does not dry out, but is also well cooked from the inside.
• Resting – after cooking, let the meat rest for a few minutes so that the juices distribute evenly.

What to serve kebab with?

1. Kebab can be served with a variety of side dishes and sauces:
2. Pita or pita bread is a great option for wrapping a kebab in your hand.
3. Rice or potatoes are classic side dishes that complement the dish well.
4. Salads – light vegetable salads, such as tabbouleh or fattoush, go well with kebabs.
5. Sauces – yogurt sauces, tahini, garlic sauce or tomato chutneys.