Kebab

Kebabs are delectable meat dishes originating from Middle Eastern cuisine, which have now garnered global popularity. In English-speaking countries, you might encounter classic shish kebabs or the fast-food staple, doner kebabs. In regions like India and the Middle East, the term "kebab" encompasses a variety of grilled meat dishes. Typically, kebabs consist of chunks of meat or ground meat, sometimes mixed with vegetables, and cooked over an open flame. The meats used range from mutton, lamb, beef, goat, chicken, and fish, with pork being less common due to religious reasons.

The tradition of cooking meat on skewers dates back to ancient times in the Middle East. A 10th-century cookbook by Ibn Sayyar al-Warraq describes kebabs as meat cut up and cooked in various ways. The term "kebab" has been used to describe a range of grilled and broiled meat dishes from Persian and Turkish medieval kitchens. Thanks to Muslim influence, kebabs have spread globally, adapting to local tastes and ingredients.

The word "kebab" likely entered the English language from Arabic in the late 17th century. Each country has its unique take on kebabs. For example, Afghanistan offers Afghan kebabs, Armenia presents Khorovats, and Azerbaijan features tika and lyulya kebabs. In Bangladesh, there are local versions of kebabs. Greece is renowned for gyros and souvlaki, while India offers Mughlai-influenced varieties like Tunde ke kabab and Shami kebab.

In Pakistan, kebabs have roots in Mughlai cuisine, with varieties like chapli, boti, and tikka. Turkey is famous for its Adana kebap and döner kebap. In the West, shish kebabs and döner kebabs have become widely popular. Shish kebabs typically consist of small pieces of meat cooked on skewers, while döner kebabs involve sliced meat served in sandwiches.

Other interesting kebab varieties include Burrah from India, Ćevapi from southeastern Europe, Galouti and Kakori kebabs from India, Kalmi kebab from Indian cuisine, Kebab Halabi from Syria and Lebanon, Pinchitos from Spain, and Shashlik found in Eastern and Central Europe. The Western world has embraced these flavorful dishes, making shish kebabs and döner kebabs a staple in many places.