According to historical records, the origins of the kebab can be traced back to soldiers in Turkey who would grill chunks of freshly hunted animals on skewers as a meal. The name “kebab” was first mentioned in a Turkish script called Kyssa-i Yusuf in 1377, making it the oldest known reference to this delicious food item.
Turkish cuisine is renowned for its delicious kebabs, each prepared with a unique blend of spices and cooking techniques. Here are five kebabs that you should try during your visit to Turkey:
#1 Adana Kebab
This kebab is named after the city of Adana and is made with ground lamb mixed with spicy red pepper flakes, parsley and tomatoes. The mixture is then formed into long, thin patties and grilled over charcoal. Adana kebab is often served with grilled vegetables and rice.
#2 Iskender Kebab
This kebab is named after its creator, Iskender Efendi, and is made with thinly sliced lamb that is slow-cooked on a vertical spit. The cooked meat is then placed on top of pide bread and garnished with a tomato-based sauce. Iskender Kebab is typically served with yoghurt and grilled tomatoes.
#3 Urfa Kebab
This kebab is made with minced lamb meat that is mixed with spices and shaped into small balls. The meatballs are then grilled over a charcoal fire until they are cooked through. Urfa features paprika and other milder spices (like oregano and cumin) that still burst with flavour without being too hot.
#4 Shish Kebab
This classic kebab is made from cubes of marinated lamb or beef, skewered with vegetables (such as onions, tomatoes, and bell peppers) and grilled until tender. The marinade typically includes olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and various spices.
It is traditionally made of lamb but there are also versions with various kinds of meat, poultry, or fish. In Turkey, shish kebab and the vegetables served with it are grilled separately, normally not on the same skewer.
#5 Doner Kebab
Doner kebab is a way of making kebabs into a vertical spit with sheets of heavily marinated lamb or mutton stacked up together. The kebab rotates all time in a skewer to get equal heat and to be cooked equally from all sides. It is usually served with sauces and pita bread.
In conclusion, the kebab is a significant placeholder in the Turkish cuisine. Whether you prefer meat, veggies or chicken, Turkish kebabs have a unique flavour to be savoured.
The delicious aroma of the kebab cooking on the grill, with a blend of spices and herbs, is an experience that every food lover must try.
So, head out to your local Turkish restaurant or try making some kebabs at home and enjoy the flavours of this beloved dish!
Add a comment below about what type of kebab you prefer the most!